Returning to study

What would you like to study?

If you’re returning to study, changing direction or looking into your study options for 2020, there are opportunities to explore at RMIT.

Choose a study area

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First time at uni, or returning after a break?

Download our Returning to learning guide for information on how to apply, tips on balancing work, life and study, and interviews with current students about their experience.

How to apply to study at RMIT

You can apply via VTAC or by submitting your application directly to RMIT.

Applying direct to RMIT – One course

You may also have the option to apply direct to RMIT.

You should apply direct if:

you're only wanting to apply for one course
you're not a year 12 student
you have not already applied or registered via VTAC
you are applying for the Semester 2 intake

Not all course accept direct applications. See individual course for closing dates. You can check whether your course accepts direct applications by clicking the 'Apply' button on your chosen course description.

How to apply direct to RMIT

Applying through VTAC – Multiple courses

The Victorian Admissions Centre (VTAC) is the administrative office that processes applications to universities and other tertiary institutions across Victoria, including RMIT.

If you apply for more than one course at RMIT, you must apply through VTAC. You need to create an account to apply through VTAC and follow the steps.

Visit VTAC

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The traditional path to uni isn't the only one

If you're planning to return to study or are about to enrol for the first time, you may have some questions about how the application process works. Based on thousands of conversations with prospective students, we've collected answers to the most common questions we're asked every year and listed them below.

Here's what you need to know

If you have a question that isn't covered on this list, we have a whole team of experts who'd be happy to help answer it – come and visit or contact us any time.

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What makes someone a 'mature age student'?

For undergraduate study, a mature age student is anyone who is 21 or older by the 1st of January 2019 (or the year in which they’re applying). For certificates and diplomas, it’s anyone who is over 18 and has been out of school for more than 12 months.

Mature age students follow the same application process as other applicants and still need to meet the minimum entry requirements to be considered.

If you are a mature age student you should take a look at our equity and access guidelines to see if you’re eligible for special consideration.

What's the best way to apply for a course?

The application process can vary according to the type of course you're interested in and your previous educational experience. If you know which course you want to apply for, just search for it on our website, select the course you're interested in and click the 'apply' button once you're on the page.

The apply page for each course will contain specific information about intake dates, entry requirements and what you need to start the application process. If you're not sure which course you want to apply for, then you can browse available courses.

We've put together a video walkthrough showing how to navigate RMIT's online application system, you're also welcome to call us if you have any questions about how or when to apply for a particular RMIT course.

Can I get credit for prior study?

If you’ve completed previous study which is similar to the course you are applying for, it’s possible you may be eligible for study credit based on this experience. When you apply you will be asked to note previous study which will be considered with your application.

Once you’ve been made an offer you will need to fill out a credit application form and it will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. You can find a list of different types of study credit, along with a step-by-step guide on how to request them on Apply for credit.

What are study pathways and how do they work?

Study pathways provide opportunities for you to transfer from one RMIT course to another based on your previous educational experience. There's often more than one way to get into a degree so don’t worry if you don’t meet all the criteria at first.

Your previous studies may be recognised in one of two ways:

Completed or partly completed certificate, diploma and advanced diploma qualifications can be credited towards a degree.
Partly completed degree studies may be credited to other RMIT courses.

Some certificates and diplomas allow you to earn credit that may be transferred to a degree at a later stage. In addition, being acknowledged for previous study may reduce the duration of your program and save you money. There are a number of recognised pathway options so check your course or interest area to see what's offered.

What support services are available?

If you’re transferring to RMIT or returning to study after a break, we understand that study may not be the only thing on your mind. That’s why we offer a range of support services to ensure you don’t lose momentum while working towards a degree.

Here’s a list of support services available to help you stay focused and on track while studying with us:

RMIT’s Study and Learning Centre has a wealth of resources available to students year-round, including the Learning Lab which hosts specialised online tutorials to help students hone their skills in areas like research and writing. For friendly advice from experienced Learning Advisors, you can also visit our drop-in learning centres at a time convenient to you.
Been a while since you were at university? Sharpen your study skills at our academic writing and study skills workshops. We also offer specialised workshops to help prepare you for higher-level postgraduate coursework.
Personal support such as childcare, financial advice and counselling is also available when you need it, and our Student Support Advisors can offer free assistance and support on a range of topics. Find out more about RMIT's support services.

What important dates should I be aware of?

The Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) is the administrative office that processes applications to universities and other tertiary institutions across Victoria, including RMIT. Find important dates on the VTAC website.

You can also apply direct to RMIT using RMIT's online application system. Important direct application dates are:

Semester 1, 2020: Applications open on Monday 5 August 2019
Semester 2 (start studying midyear): Applications open on 1 May each year
Successful VE applicants will start their study from February 2020
Successful higher education applicants will start their study from March 2020.

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Returning to study