Didn’t get the school mark you wanted? Don’t panic, there are many ways to get into ACU. We’ve gathered a list of pathways and entry programs on this page. See if any might work for you.

What are pathways and entry programs?

A pathway is an extra qualification or test you take in addition to your application that helps you meet your course entry requirements.

An entry program is a way of boosting the success of your first application if you meet certain criteria with your schooling or personal background.


Campus transfers

Start at one campus, finish at another. Our presence across four states and territories frees you up to apply at a campus with a more flexible entry rank. 

You can then apply to transfer to another campus offering the same course.

Find out more about internal transfers


Work or life experience

If you have significant work or life experience, this can help boost your rank score. 

Find out more about our work and life experience pathway


Special Tertiary Admissions test

If you’re 21 or over and not currently studying Year 12, you can demonstrate your abilities by taking the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT).

The STAT is widely accepted and may improve your chances of selection into your chosen course. It’s a good option if you don’t have any formal education qualifications or wish to apply using only mature-age qualifications.

Find out more about the Special Tertiary Admissions Test


Special access schemes

If your school result was affected by circumstances outside your control, you might qualify for a state access or equity scheme. 

These schemes are available through the state Tertiary Admission Centres (TACs) and generally include categories such as:

  • financial hardship
  • home environment and responsibilities
  • personal illness and disability
  • education disruption
  • English language difficulties.

Qld, NSW and ACT access schemes

The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) and Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) access schemes are both known as the Educational Access Scheme.

Find out more about the QTAC Educational Access Scheme

Find out more about the UAC Educational Access Scheme 

Vic Special Entry Access Scheme 

The Victoria Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)’s access scheme is known as the Special Entry Access Scheme. 

Find out more about the VTAC Special Entry Access Scheme


Pathway programs

We offer several associate degrees, certificates and diplomas that are pathways into more advanced bachelor courses.

These programs have lower entry requirements. This means you can begin your studies in one of these qualifications, then move into the advanced degree following partial or full completion.

Find out more about our available pathway certificates and diplomas

Foundation Studies – Blacktown Campus

If you haven’t got an ATAR, or your ATAR isn’t what you were hoping for, don’t stress – our Foundation Studies program provides you with another path into university.
Develop the skills and confidence to thrive at university and gain guaranteed entry in to a range of ACU undergraduate degrees. This fee-free program will prepare you for study at ACU by immersing you in university life while introducing you to a range of foundation units.

Please note, this course is currently offered at our Blacktown Campus only.

Learn more


VET or TAFE training 

We’re proud to deliver nationally accredited vocational education and training (VET) qualifications and short courses through ACU College. 

These courses are open to applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and can provide pathway opportunities to advanced degrees.

Find out more about our vocational education and training courses


Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Admission Program

If you identify as an Indigenous Australian, your application may be considered under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Admission Program. 

Find out more about our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Admission Program


International student pathways

Are you an international student who wants to study in Australia? You can develop your skills and move into university study through one of our pathway programs open to international applicants.

You can learn more and view a list of available courses at our international pathways page.

Find out about our international pathways


Confused? Talk to us

You can reach out to us at AskACU or student support if you have any questions about admission pathways, entry programs and entry requirements.

Email AskACU

Search our FAQ knowledge database

Call us on 1300 275 228.

International students

Contact the friendly team at international student support

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