How to change uni preferences
More confidence in your future career
At Deakin, we help you shape your university preferences so you can aim for the course you really want – not just the courses you think you’ll get into.
What is change of preference?
Change of preference is the process of updating your VTAC course list after you've submitted your university applications. You can add, remove or reorder your preferences as many times as you like, before and in-between offer rounds. Thousands of Year 12 students use this period each year to explore their options and find the right-fit degree.
How to change your preferences
When you're ready, log into your VTAC account or your local admissions centre and follow these steps:
- Check course entry requirements.
- Add, remove or reorder courses in your preferred study order.
- Click ‘change my preference’ to submit.
Not in Year 12? Apply directly with Deakin.
Why should I change my course preferences?
You ATAR might exceed expectations, fall short or your career goals may change. Updating your preferences ensures your list reflects what you actually want to study and keeps your options open for all offer rounds.
VTAC change of preference: next steps after ATAR
If your ATAR isn't what you were expecting, you can use the change of preference period to adjust your course list based on your results.
- ATAR higher than expected: add new course options or aim higher.
- ATAR as expected: you could change your preferences and keep flexible options.
- ATAR lower than expected: explore pathways and alternative entry options.
- Unsure: speak to a Deakin adviser before updating your list.
Find courses you are eligible for
You can update your preferences as many times as you like before the deadline and you’ll still be considered in later offer rounds. Helpful tools include our online ATAR calculator and you can also search for other courses you are eligible for. This helps you build a realistic preference list and understand your options before you update course preferences in your VTAC account.
It has been the easiest transition because any help I needed was provided. When I needed clarification with my course, Deakin gave me options and clarity that made making decisions easier and smoother.
Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours)
#1 Victorian uni for graduate employment
Deakin graduates get hired. Every student has the opportunity to take part in work-integrated learning so you will gain practical experience and career confidence.
Pathways into your preferred Deakin course
If your ATAR isn’t what you expected or your circumstances change, there are still multiple ways to reach your preferred Deakin course. You can explore pathways including:
- Deakin College and pathway programs
- TAFE credit and recognition of prior learning
- Course transfers or bridging units
- Regional and Remote Entry Scheme
- Deakin Guaranteed ATAR entry (for eligible students).
These options help you keep your goals on track and work towards your degree in a way that suits you.
Get help choosing your course preference
It’s normal to feel unsure during change of preference. We’re here to help you understand your options and make confident decisions about your next step.
Get course help from Deakin experts
Our friendly advisers can assist you in exploring course options, scholarships and what life at Deakin looks like. Speak to our advisers online, over the phone or at Open Day for help with your VTAC preferences and course choices.
Talk to your parents or caregivers
Your parent or caregiver can help you think through your options and finalise your change of preference choices. They love a good comparison, so sit down and compare your favourite courses together! Or download a course guide PDF for them.
Frequently asked questions about change of preference
Got a question but can't find the answer? Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about VTAC change of preference.
Yes. You can accept your current offer and still change preferences for higher-ranked courses in later rounds. You can’t delete the offered course but can reorder it and add new ones.
We've put together a really helpful article that outlines what you need to know when changing your uni preferences.
No, changing VTAC preferences is free after paying the initial application fee. You can update your preferences any time before the change of preference dates.
You can change your uni preferences as many times as you like before the change of preference deadline. Just save your updated university preferences each time.
If you miss your first choice, you’ll be considered for your next preferences in order. You can accept an offer while still aiming higher in later rounds.
In Victoria, change of preference usually closes in December after ATAR results, with additional windows in January and February for later offer rounds. You can update your preferences right up until each deadline. Check VTAC or your local admissions centre for exact dates.
You can select up to eight course preferences. You’ll receive one offer per round for the highest-ranked course you’re eligible for.
Yes, the order of your university preferences matters. Offers are made for the highest preference you qualify for, so rank courses by what you want to study first.
Each state has its own admissions centre with different processes and deadlines. Check your local admissions website. International students with Australian Year 12 can use VTAC. Those who don’t meet VTAC residency or citizenship requirements apply directly to universities.
Want to explore more?
Changing your uni preferences? Here's what you need to know
Our guide helps you optimise your VTAC preferences and take note of VTAC key dates so you can feel confident in your future.
Which university has the highest graduate employment?
Deakin is the top university in Victoria for graduate employment due to its industry connections, innovative learning programs and support services
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
We're here to support you
Need help changing your preferences? Our friendly advisers are here to guide you through your options at Deakin, so you can make a confident, informed decision for your future.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
Enquire online
