What should I include in my personal statement?
Think of a personal statement like a job application cover letter. It should outline your motivation to study, your previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression.
Tell us about your experience
Keep in mind that your statement should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in the course or study area you're applying for. Talk about what you are good at and what you are proud of. Start writing a list that includes:
- achievements
- work experience
- skills
- obstacles you have overcome.
Include any voluntary work or activities, as these are a great reflection of who you are as a person and what you believe in.
Pro tip: keep it brief – stick to around 500 words.
Write it yourself!
This is your chance to let us know why you would make a great Deakin student or why you may not have previously performed as well as you know you could. Your personal statement is an alternative way for our admissions team to learn more about you and your strengths.
Pro tip: only you can express what you are passionate about and why.
Double-check your writing
Allow yourself time to revise and refine, getting rid of any information that is not relevant to your course. It may seem obvious, but getting your spelling and grammar right is important. Choose a tense and stick with it.
Pro tip: ask a friend to look over your personal statement.
Applications are now open
The Deakin Application Portal has made applying for your ultimate course easier than ever. Plus, you can chat with our application experts on 1800 693 888 if you need support at any step.
How to navigate the application portal
Here is how to upload your personal statement to the portal:
- login to apply.deakin.edu.au
- click on the ‘Supporting documents’ tab
- upload your personal statement (max file size 15MB)
- select personal statement from the pop-up
- continue your application.
Got a question but can’t find the answer?
Here are some of the most asked questions our awesome future student advisers get about applying to Deakin:
Common questions
Skip to next topicI'm having trouble creating an account on the application portal. How do I register?
If you've previously registered your details through the application portal, you won't be able to register again with the same email. If you don't remember your login details simply contact Student Central on +61 3 9244 6333 or submit an enquiry online. You can also visit the application portal assistance hub for further support.
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What should I include in my personal statement?
Think of a personal statement like a job application cover letter. It should outline your motivation towards studying, your previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Can I get help to write my personal statement?
Yes! Please have a read of How to write a personal statement. You’re also welcome to chat to one of our friendly advisers on 1800 693 888 for advice on what to include in your personal statement.
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Do I have to provide a personal statement?
It depends on the course you're applying for and its specific entry requirements. Either way, it will strengthen your chances of being offered a place at Deakin in your desired course. Check the entry requirements on the relevant course page for more information.
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What is special consideration?
Special consideration acknowledges the hard work you've put in to get to uni, while recognising what you could have achieved if your circumstances were different. A successful application can adjust your rank. This means you can be offered a place in a course at Deakin, with a lower rank than would usually be required.
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How do I apply for special consideration?
Applying for special consideration is simple, and in some cases, you won't need to provide any details outside of your course application. The process is different for each VTAC category, or Deakin's programs, so please visit the relevant special consideration page for step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
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I have submitted an application through VTAC, can I also submit an application directly to Deakin?
It depends on the course/s you're applying for, but generally, no. Get in touch with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 or via live chat to discuss your options.
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What is SEAS?
VTAC's Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) is for those who may not have been able to reach their full potential for study due to a range of challenging factors. SEAS enables institutions to consider the circumstances you've experienced and their impact on your studies when making selection decisions.
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What are SEAS aggregate points?
The Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) adds points to your aggregate to reflect the level you may have achieved if your circumstances had been different. This can increase your chance of receiving an offer but does not guarantee it. Deakin will give a maximum of 15 aggregate points per applicant.
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Can you tell me if I'm definitely eligible before I apply?
Unfortunately not. Multiple factors are taken into consideration when an application is being assessed. This includes individual course requirements, which are subject to change, and the quality and size of the cohort of the year or trimester you're applying in.
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When will I hear back about my application?
The general turnaround time for direct applications to Deakin is two to four weeks from submission. You can check the progress of your application by logging into the application portal. If you applied through VTAC, offers are released in rounds.
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How do I find out my application status?
Once you've submitted your application successfully, you can log back into the application portal to check the progress of your application.
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When can I expect my offer?
Direct offers from Deakin are generally sent out two to four weeks post application. You can check the status of your application at anytime by logging into the application portal.
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Will my first preference still be considered if I receive an offer for a lower preference?
Yes, whether you're applying through VTAC or directly to Deakin, you may still be considered for your first or higher-preferred courses regardless of whether you've accepted, declined or deferred an offer for a lower preferred course.
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What support is available to help me complete my application?
Get top tips and advice from our how to apply video guide. Our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre can also provide step-by-step guidance on the application process. Call 1800 693 888 to chat with one of our friendly advisers or contact an authorised agent in your country or region.
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Can I speak to someone in person about my study options?
Yes! We regularly host events, including 1:1 consultations and information sessions, to assist you with study options and career planning. You can also connect with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 from 9am-5pm weekdays, or chat with a team member live online from 8am-7pm Monday to Thursday and 9am-5pm Friday.
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Can I include references in my application?
Yes, you can! References are required for our MBA but are also welcome for other course applications. If you don't have an academic record, a written reference is considered to be a strong supporting document. Keep in mind, references may enhance your application but don't guarantee entry.
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Will references help my application?
A reference is considered to be a supporting document. If it provides more context about your work or life experience, it may enhance your application but will not guarantee you entry.
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Do I have to apply via VTAC if I'm not in Year 12?
If you're applying for more than one course in Trimester 1, you'll need to apply through VTAC. If you're applying for one course only, or multiple courses in Trimesters 2 and 3, you can apply direct to Deakin. Use our course finder to check entry requirements for your chosen course.
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I didn't complete high school. Can I still apply?
Yes. If you don’t currently meet the academic entry requirements, or need to bridge the gap between previous study and university, we offer several pathway options. We encourage you to apply so our admissions team can process your application and recommend the best pathway for you.
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How do I apply for a scholarship?
Each Deakin scholarship has a unique set of entry requirements – be sure to check the individual scholarship page for full details on how to apply, as well as our top tips for scholarship applications.
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Will I find out if I'm successful for a scholarship before getting an offer?
The application timeline for each Deakin scholarship is different – be sure to check the individual scholarship page for full details on dates and how to apply. You can also check out our top tips for scholarship applications.
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Do I need to provide certified transcripts with my application?
If you’re a domestic student there’s no need to provide certified documentation unless you’ve changed your name or status (i.e. residency). If you’re an international student you’ll need to provide certified documentation before you commence on campus. It’s important to attach all requested supporting documentation in English when you apply to avoid any delays.
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Contact us
Apply with confidence. We are committed to giving you the guidance you need throughout the application process.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
Enquire online