Apply for postgraduate courses

Find out how to apply for a postgraduate certificate, diploma or masters degree by coursework, as a domestic student.

How to apply for a postgraduate course

1. Choose your course

Browse our study areas to find postgraduate courses that match your interests and career goals.

On the course pages, you will find information about the subjects you will study, the practical experience in the curriculum and potential career paths.

Explore our courses by study area 

2. Check the entry requirements

Refer to the 'entry requirements' section on the course page(s) to discover what is needed for a successful application.

'Additional information' lists items that are not part of the admission criteria but will still need to be met while studying.

After confirming your eligibility, create a list of required documents or selection tasks.

3. Consider special admissions

Through special admissions, we consider any difficulties you have faced when assessing your application. 

Categories for special admissions are:

  • applicant from rural or isolated area
  • disability or medical condition
  • disadvantaged financial background
  • difficult circumstances
  • mature-age consideration
  • men and women applying for disciplines where they are under-represented
  • recognition as an Aboriginal Australian.

 Discover special admissions

4. Explore scholarships

We know how important it is to have financial security while you're studying. Our range of scholarships can help take the pressure off.

Some applications need to be made to an external organisation. Others can be made in our application portal

Read about our scholarships

5. Calculate your credit (advanced standing)

Credit, also known as 'advanced standing', is used to recognise your prior learning or work and life experience. It reduces the number of units you need to complete in your chosen course at VU.

When applying for a course directly to VU, you will have the option to submit a credit application. Alternatively, you can apply for credit after you have been accepted to study at VU, during enrolment.

Find out about credit applications

6. Gather your documents

Gather any evidence or information to upload during your application for courses and credit.

Compulsory

You will need to apply for and supply a unique student identifier (USI).

Where relevant to you

Provide copies of documents, as originals won’t be returned to you.

  • Study history – copy of testamur, official academic or completion transcript(s), and unit descriptions. Overseas transcripts should be certified and/or translated by a nationally certified translator.
  • Work history – CV, position description, and/or employer letter outlining duties and time in the role.
  • Statement of interest (up to 500 words) – outline your reasons for applying, and how your experience will help you suceed. You can also address any past academic challenges for readmission.
Apply to VU

Click 'Apply' on the course page or below to register and get started. 

Search for your course and select your preferred study option, e.g. full-time or part-time, where applicable.

Choose 'select another course' if you would like to be considered for multiple courses at VU. We will evaluate your applications in order of preference. Click the three dots beside the course entry to arrange them in your preferred order, starting with your top choice.

You will need to complete your personal details, apply for credit if relevant, and upload any supporting documentation.

You can save the application partway through and return to finish it later. 

Access your application via 'my applications' on the dashboard of the landing page and ensure that all fields are complete. Once you have finished your application, review it and submit.

We will be in touch to let you know whether your application is successful, and explain the next steps.

Apply to VU

After you apply

How we assess applications

Most postgraduate courses require applicants to have completed some higher education study, equivalent to Australian standards. Admission criteria vary – some courses require the previous study to have been in a related discipline, while other courses accept previous study in any discipline.

Certain courses will consider relevant work experience in place of a higher education qualification. For these courses, a detailed CV must be submitted and you may be asked for professional references.

For course-specific admission criteria and information about any additional selection tasks, please visit the relevant course page.