University: Domestic Students

Queensland universities have developed a well-earned reputation over recent years for excellence in the higher education sector for providing high-quality innovative education across a diverse range of specialisations.

Queensland boasts a well-established network of universities, with universities located in regional and metropolitan areas.

Applying for university

Go to your preferred university website for information about the application process.

• Australian Catholic University (ACU National)
• Bond University
• Central Queensland University (CQ University)
• Griffith University
• James Cook University
• Queensland University of Technology
• The University of Queensland
• University of Southern Queensland
• University of the Sunshine Coast
• Southern Cross University

Pathways to university

The most common pathway to university is through the completion of senior education in a Queensland school. Eligible Year 12 students receive a Queensland Certificate of Education and Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), which replaced the Overall Position (OP), which universities use to assess students' eligibility for courses.

International students currently studying an Australian Year 12 qualification may be eligible to apply for university in this way.

Applications are made through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Find out more about student ATARs and tertiary entrance.

Read more about applying for university following completion of Year 12

Choosing a course

ComparEd, powered by QILT (Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching), lets you search and compare courses offered by different universities.

Myfuture also has information on courses and job options after you graduate.

Steps for applying

You will most likely have to apply through QTAC once you have chosen your course.

1. Check key dates—like when QTAC applications are due and when you’ll need to respond to course offers.
   1. Note: For course admissions not handled by QTAC, like postgraduate courses, you’ll need to contact the university directly to find important dates.
2. Check entry requirements—course entry is usually based on past academic achievements represented by your Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) or, if you graduated school in 2019, your Overall Position (OP), and may also involve an audition, interview, portfolio or questionnaire.
3. Check course fees and see if you're eligible for financial support.
4. Submit your application through QTAC.
5. Once you’ve received an offer, check with QTAC to see if you’re eligible for credit for prior study or learning. Read more about recognition of prior learning.

Pathway programs

Pathway programs and preparation courses can help you gain the qualifications you need to enter university.

Universities and other education institutions offer different bridging and preparatory programs. Contact your preferred education provider to find out what programs are available.

Many registered training organisations offer a Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation which gives successful students a ranking that QTAC uses to assess their suitability for tertiary study.

Search CRICOS for a provider that offers the Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation.

Other pathways

You may have completed previous study and have qualifications that could help you qualify for some university courses. These qualifications could include:

• International Baccalaureate
• Certificate III or IV
• Diploma
• Advanced Diploma

Credit transfers and recognition of skills

Credit transfers recognise the study you have already done and may reduce the time it takes to finish your course.

Ways to study

Depending on your area of study you may have access to flexible study options like:

• part-time
• online or distance education
• summer programs
• exchange programs.

Contact the university directly for more information.

Study costs

Costs vary between courses and the way you choose to study. Generally, course fees are unavoidable but you should check your eligibility for fee help.

Some other common study costs include:

• transport—you may be eligible for student discounts
• textbooks or equipment
• study materials like stationery and assignment resources.

Find tips for living on a student budget to help you better manage the costs of study.