Mature Age StudentsAm I mature age?The University of Wollongong defines a mature age student as a person who is:
- 21 years old and over, and
- taking an undergraduate qualification (eg, a Bachelor degree).
If you're 21 years old and over, and wish to take a postgraduate qualification, the University of Wollongong defines you as a postgraduate student. If you're not sure which category you fit into, please read both sections to help you decide. Why study at UOW?At the University of Wollongong (UOW) you can Be More. Your time here at UOW gaining a degree will improve your career prospects, ignite your imagination, build up your confidence and be the start of new friendships. UOW will support you from the moment you make this decision, whether you are a first time tertiary student or resuming your studies. Our Learning and Development Centre will assist you in developing study skills to ensure your academic success and the Careers Service Centre will help design your Career Management Plan. Discover why you should choose UOW! What can I study?If you're not sure about what you want to do, you can visit our Careers Service for assistance. Alternatively you can contact the Centrelink Career Information Centre. If you're still not sure about what you want to do, you may want to see the UOW CourseFinder for some ideas. If you do know how you want your future to look, you'll need to find out what qualifications can take you there. Remember too that there are more ways than one! For example, if you want to be an accountant, some universities may offer a Bachelor of Accounting, but other universities may offer a Commerce or Business degree that specialises in Accountancy.
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Find out more about our courses or contact UOW on 1300 367 869 |
What are the entry requirements?Approx. UAI (or equivalent) This refers to the Universities Admissions Index, which is calculated based on the NSW HSC. You will need to achieve the minimum UAI score to qualify for entry into the degree you are interested in. You can apply using your results regardless of when you completed school. We can translate your marks as part of the application process, from the NSW HSC (or equivalent) into a UAI. If you did not do the NSW HSC (or equivalent) and do not have a UAI (or equivalent), you will need to satisfy the requirements/achieve the required score for one of the schemes listed in academic entry pathways.
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For more information on interstate equivalents contact UOW on 1300 367 869. Find out more about overseas equivalents. |
Other entry requirementsBachelor of Creative Arts and any Creative Arts double degree For entry you will need to complete a Creative Arts Interview/Audition application form and (where appropriate) supply a portfolio of your work. Application closing date: 30 September 2008. Applicants need to meet both artistic qualifications, determined by an interview or audition, together with an appropriate UAI (or equivalent). Double degrees Before enrolment it is advisable that you discuss this option with both faculties. You will need to satisfy the entry requirements of both degrees. English Language Requirements If you are a domestic student and English is not your first language, you are required to provide evidence of satisfying the University's English language requirements as listed on the International Students site. For detailed information on these requirements please visit the International Students site. If you have completed an academic qualification conducted entirely in English within the last two years, in a country where English is the official language, you may meet the University’s English language requirements. For further information about these requirements can be found online.
Academic entry pathwaysThe following is a list of the possible pathways you can choose to undertake in order to satisfy the academic entry requirements for a Bachelor degree at UOW. Please note, completion of these courses does not guarantee admission into UOW. Australian Year 12 You can apply using your Australian Year 12 results or an overseas equivalent regardless of when you completed your schooling. Your results will be converted to a UAI which must reach the current minimum UAI for consideration. A UAI is a number between 0.00 and 100.00 with increments of 0.05, which provide a measure of overall academic achievement in the NSW HSC (or equivalent). This number assists universities in ranking applicants for university selection. University Access Program (UAP) The Wollongong College Australia (WCA) is situated on UOW Wollongong campus and provides the same high quality of teaching as the University. WCA offers a range of university preparation programs including the UAP. The UAP is 14 week part-time preparation program that has been specifically designed for mature aged students who want to enter University. The course prepares students for University by teaching skills related to note taking, essay writing, presentations and examinations; as well as specific course content knowledge to help students succeed in both the UAP and their future degree. The UAP is completed in just 14 weeks of part-time study (morning, afternoon or evening classes depending on availability), delivered over three days a week. You can commence the UAP in February, June or October at our Wollongong campus. Please note, there are limited places available for students wishing to study a Bachelor of Education/Teaching/Nursing and applicants will need to include in their application a separate written proposal adressing additional criteria. Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) You can gain entry to UOW via the two hour multiple choice STAT. The STAT is designed to assess a range of skills and knowledge you will need for tertiary study. It is coordinated by the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) and held several times a year. Click here to view the dates and venues for May 2008. Click here to view the dates and venues for late 2008 and early 2009. WEA Illawarra has developed a series of special workshops to help students prepare for the STAT multiple choice. For more information regarding the STAT Preparation Workshop please phone WEA Illawarra on 4226 1622. The STAT is not available to prospective students applying for double degrees in the Faculty of Law or degrees offered by the Faculty of Engineering.
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For more information, contact UAC on 02 9752 0200. |
TAFE/AQF qualifications The following qualifications may be submitted for assessment of entry eligibility*:
- Diploma (TAFE)
- Advanced Diploma
- Associate Diploma
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level IV Certificate (excluding trade certificates).
Admission is dependent on the completion of the course and the level of academic performance achieved. Some Advanced Standing may be granted for these awards (excluding Certificate IV). *Successful completion of a TAFE/AQF qualification may not provide entry to all undergraduate programs.
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For more information contact UOW on 1300 367 869. |
TAFE Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC) The TPC is an option for people who wish to gain entrance to the University and for whom a HSC course may be inappropriate. Entry is dependent on the level of academic performance achieved in the TPC.
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For more information, contact your local TAFE. |
Completed or partially-completed tertiary studies You need an appropriate record of achievement in a Bachelor degree from an approved university or other tertiary institution, which is at least 1/6 completed. You will be required to provide a syllabus or subject descriptions to be assessed as some advanced standing may be granted from subjects completed. These documents must be accompanied by an official English translation if they were produced in another language.
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For more information contact UOW on 1300 367 869. |
Completed or partially-completed overseas studies You need an appropriate record of achievement in your secondary schooling overseas. You need an appropriate record of achievement in your tertiary studies overseas from an approved university or other tertiary institution, which is at least 1/6 completed. Some Advanced Standing may be granted. You will be required to provide syllabus or subject descriptions to be assessed. These documents must be accompanied by an official English translation if they are produced in another language.
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For more information contact UOW on 1300 367 869. |
Limited Universities Admissions Index (UAI) You must be at least 20 years of age on 1 March prior to the year of entry to the program. You must attempt, in one sitting, between 5 and 9 units of Board-developed subjects of the NSW HSC - through a TAFE college, senior college or secondary school. The score is calculated from the best five units of Category A subjects attempted including at least one unit of English.
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For more information contact UOW on 1300 367 869 |
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Alternative Admissions Program This program gives Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders access to study through an achievement test and an interview. The test examines literacy, numeracy and learning comprehension skills. An advanced maths test is available for those wishing to enrol in degrees such as Accountancy, Economics, Engineering, Science and other degrees that require maths. Those wishing to enrol in Creative Arts are also required to undertake a Faculty interview/audition. Bridging CoursesThe University of Wollongong is offering the following bridging subjects for intending students, continuing students and the general public:
- An Appreciation of Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Application forms are available from UniAdvice or by telephoning 1300 367 869. How do I apply?You may apply either directly to the University or via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
- The main benefit in applying directly is that it's free, you can apply anytime throughout the year.
- The main benefit in applying through UAC is that you can apply to more than one university at a time.
Applying directly to the University If you would like to apply directly to the Uni, the application form may be obtained by contacting UniAdvice or online. Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) UAC publishes a guide each year, which includes detailed instructions on how to lodge an application for admission. Online application closing date: 30 September 2008, or by early February (late application fee applicable).
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For more information contact 02 9752 0200. |
University of Wollongong Direct Application Closing Dates Due to the high demand for many of the courses offered within the Faculties of Arts, Commerce, Education, Health & Behavioural Science, Informatics and Science at the Wollongong campus, the availability of places may be limited. It has therefore been necessary to introduce a system whereby applicants who apply directly to the University will be considered in rounds of offers. The following dates can be used as a guide of when you will be advised of the outcome of your application.
| Intakes |
Application Closing Dates |
Application Decision |
| Autumn Session |
End of September
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Early January
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| Spring Session (check course availability)* |
1 June#
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Mid June
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*Applications for the faculties of Arts, Commerce, Informatics, Science and Engineering will only be accepted.
#Late applications will be considered if places are available. Direct applications for courses within other faculties will be individually assessed on an on-going basis. Please note the above arrangements do NOT apply to current Year 12 students applying through the Universities Admissions Centres. What do I need to provide in the direct application form? Please read the application form carefully. Providing all of the required documents will avoid delays in the assessment procedure. The application form must include certified copies of your studies completed including grades achieved and completion certificates. All non-original documents submitted with the application form must be certified, as specified on the application form. Completed applications can be posted to the address below: UniAdvice
University of Wollongong
Wollongong NSW 2522 What are the costs?According to Government regulations, students are required to meet general costs where applicable to their studies, such as late charges, parking fines, application fees to amend an academic record, cost of travel, purchase of instruments or equipment for their course, and the cost of handbooks and notes. Commonwealth Supported Places These have replaced the traditional HECS (Higher Education Contribution Scheme) places. On average, the Australian Government contributes about three-quarters (3/4) of the total funding for educational costs provided for Commonwealth supported students; these students pay a 'student contribution' to cover the remaining costs of their course. Student contribution amounts are calculated per subject based on the Estimated Full-time Study Load (EFTSL) value of the subject and the subject cluster it belongs to. To view these amounts click here Goods and Services Tax (GST) A range of University services attract the Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10%. Where a course of study is defined by the Goods and Services Act to be an Education Course, no GST will be charged. Please contact UOW Financial Services on 02 4221 5902, if you have any questions. Other costs Other costs to consider include textbooks, transport, parking, accommodation and living costs. Financial assistanceHECS-HELP HECS-HELP is a loan that assists Commonwealth supported students to pay their student contribution amount. This replaces the previous HECS deferment option. You are eligible for HECS-HELP if you:
- are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place; AND
- are an Australian citizen or holder of a permanent humanitarian visa.
If all, or at least $500 of their student contribution up front, the student is entitled to receive a 20% discount on the amount paid up front. Voluntary repayments through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) receive a 10% discount. New Zealand citizens and other permanent visa holders are not eligible for HECS-HELP and must pay their student contribution amount upfront and are not entitled to any discounts. Eligible students who receive an offer of admission to the University of Wollongong will be able to apply for HECS-HELP during the enrolment process. Your HECS-HELP debt is repaid via the Australian Tax Office once your income reaches the minimum threshold for compulsory repayment, which was $39,825 for 2007-2008. Further information about HECS-HELP is available on the Department of Education Science and Training website.
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For a copy of the Information for Commonwealth Supported Students booklet contact UOW on 1300 367 869 |
Youth Allowance Youth Allowance is the Commonwealth Government Student Assistance Scheme which provides financial aid to full-time tertiary students under the age of 25. If you are over 25, you can apply for Austudy. The main benefit is a living allowance which is subject to an income test. For more information contact Centrelink on 13 24 90. Abstudy provides financial assistance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
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For more information contact 13 23 17 or phone UOW Aboriginal Education Centre on 02 4221 3776 |
Personal ToursThe best way to get a feel for a university is to actually visit the campus. At UOW, we prefer a more personal approach to welcoming prospective students and their families to our inspiring campus. We offer free, campus and faculty tours, including tours of accommodation residences. The tour will be personalised according to the student’s interests and needs. A current UOW student will be assigned as the tour guide. They’ll be equipped to answer any questions you may have. Tours are available between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday throughout the year. Bookings are essential and can be made by calling 1300 367 869 or emailing uniadvice@uow.edu.au FAQsQuestion: What types of qualifications are available?
Answer: Undergraduate degrees: The first level of tertiary study. A program of study requiring three to four years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). Postgraduate programs: The second level of tertiary study (you can choose between coursework or research). The time taken to complete a postgraduate program varies between six months and three years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). Types of programs include:
- Graduate Certificate (coursework)
- Graduate Diploma (coursework)
- Masters by Coursework (coursework)
- Masters by Research (research)
- Professional Doctorates (research)
- Doctor of Philosophy (research).
For more information about postgraduate programs, please see the UOW CourseFinder, or our Postgraduate course information brochures. Question: What's involved in a degree?
Answer: see What's involved in a degree? Question: What happens after I've put in my application?
Answer: If you've been successful, you will receive an Offer of Admission, which will advise you of the starting date. If your Offer is conditional, you will not be able to enrol until this condition has been cleared. If you are unsure about what to do, please contact the University for assistance. Detailed information regarding enrolment will be posted separately a few weeks prior to the enrolment day. To accept your Offer, you must attend the specified enrolment day. Question: Can I start my studies mid-year?
Answer: It may be possible to commence your studies in Spring session (beginning mid-July). All applications for this intake must be sent directly to the University. The available starting session(s) is listed in the box of essential information under each degree in the Undergraduate course information brochures. Please note, if you commence your studies mid-year your subject choice may be limited for the first session of study. Applications for the mid year intake will be dependent upon places available. Please contact UniAdvice for up to date information on 1300 367 869. Question: Am I eligible for advanced standing?
Answer:You may be eligible for advanced standing (or credit transfer) on the basis of tertiary studies completed at other universities, colleges of advanced education, TAFE or other domestic education providers. When advanced standing is given, it means that a student does not have to undertake a particular subject because they have learned what they need to know through previous study or experience. To apply you must provide full documentation of previous studies with photocopies of the relevant pages from the Handbook/Calendar of the institution concerned and a certified transcript of your results. For more information contact UniAdvice on 1300 367 869
click here. Question: As a mature aged student do I still need to meet the degree's entry requirements?
Yes, as all other applicants, you need to meet the degrees entry requirements as specified in our CourseFinder. For further information, please refer to the entry requirements section on this page.
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