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Deakin Accelerate Program

Take charge of your education and get a head start by completing two first-year university units while you finish your Year 12 studies. Not only will you boost your ATAR, but you'll also position yourself for success at the #1 university for graduate employment.

Get ahead with Deakin Accelerate

Ready to unlock your potential and get a head start on your future? With Deakin Accelerate, you can get the same benefits as studying a fifth or sixth VCE subject, earn university credit and save money on your degree –all while boosting your ATAR!

Dive into the vibrant world of uni life, explore new learning styles and enjoy a diverse range of subjects. This is your chance to  challenge yourself, discover what you're truely passionate about and prepare for an exciting academic journey ahead! Don't just dream about your future at Deakin– start building it with Deakin Accelerate.

Boost your ATAR

VCE extension studies can contribute to your ATAR as a fifth or sixth subject. You'll boost your  ATAR by three to five increment points depending on your results.

Earn uni credit for free

You'll earn credit for completing your Accelerate units, which you can put towards a related Deakin course. Plus, we'll cover your tuition fees.

Transition into uni

Get to know university life, expectations and learning styles for a smooth transition after Year 12. You'll also have access to our student support services.

Deakin Accelerate gave me a strong foundation for my first year of university. it boosted my academic and social confidence, making the transition from high school to university life seamless.

Jess Toomey

Past Deakin Accelerate student | Current Bachelor of Laws student

How Deakin Accelerate works

You’ll study two first-year university units through the program, one in Trimester 1 (March–June) and the other in Trimester 2 (July–October). If you choose to study and experience uni life on campus, you'll attend classes and seminars during the day. There are various times to choose from, meaning you can pick one that best fits your VCE timetable. Or if studying online is more accessible for you, you can also complete the program online.

Download the 2025 Deakin Accelerate brochure (PDF, 1.16MB)

Choose how and when you want to study

You can study alongside first-year university students at one of Deakin’s vibrant four campuses in Melbourne Burwood, Geelong Waterfront, Geelong Waurn Ponds or Warrnambool. If you're a rural student, or prefer learning online, you can take advantage of our flexible premium online learning platform and fit your learning around your VCE timetable and lifestyle.

No matter how you choose to study, you'll benefit from our online learning platform, which allows you to access classes, seminars, resources and more. Whether you're using your desktop, tablet or mobile, you'll have access to course content 24/7 and get answers in real time. When, where and how you study is up to you.

Why choose Deakin Accelerate?

Hear what past Deakin Accelerate students have to say about the program.

Why choose Deakin Accelerate?

Discover what you can study

Browse our wide range of study areas to find the perfect subject for you. Learn about the first-year units you can study in the program, plus campus and essential course information.

Your guide to the application process

Find out about eligibility and subject selection to submitting your application and starting the program.

Who should apply?

Apply to the Deakin Accelerate program if you’re:

  • a high achiever with above-average Year 11 results
  • looking for an extra challenge in VCE
  • a self-starter who can work independently
  • keen to make a head start on your university degree.

What do I need to apply?

To be eligible for the program you must:

  • be completing Year 12 in 2025
  • meet the prerequisite or co-requisite VCE subject requirement
  • achieve an average of at least 65% across your Year 11 subjects.

How do I apply?

Before applying, take the time to research the subjects, prerequisites and study options available. Here's what you need to know.

  1. Research

    Which subjects are you interested in and what do they involve?

    What are the units about and will you enjoy them?

    Are there any co-requisite or prerequisite subjects you need to complete?

    Will you complete the units on campus, online or a mix of both?

    Explore our study areas

  2. Apply

    Applications for the 2025 Deakin Accelerate program open 1 August.

    How to complete your application:

    • Download an application pack from the application portal.
    • Collate your supporting documentation.
    • Complete your responses to the supporting statement questions.
    • Submit your application via the application portal.

    Applications cannot be accepted via email.

  3. Receive your offer

    You'll be notified in early January 2025 about the outcome of your application.

    Once you’ve received an offer, you’ll have one week to formally accept and confirm your place in the program.

  4. Start Deakin Accelerate

    Come along to Orientation which will be held online in February 2025. Trimester 1 begins on 3 March 2025.

Have questions?

We're ready to help you make an informed choice for the Deakin Accelerate program. Whether you want to learn more or need advice, we’re here to support you.

1800 693 888
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