5 tips to speed up your uni application

If you’re considering a degree, the university application process may feel a little overwhelming. There are a few steps involved and a fair bit of paperwork. But, don’t despair. Heed these words of advice from CDU’s Manager of Admissions and Scholarships, Kara Blohm, to smooth your journey.

1. Know where to lodge your application

This might sound obvious – just jump on to a university’s website, pop in your details and your application is submitted. Right?

Not quite. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to apply directly to a university, via a third-party admissions centre or an agent (if you’re an international student). Universities have these arrangements in place to make it easier for you supply your documents and application paperwork.

Where you lodge your application may be determined by where you live, your previous study and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.

The best place to find out where to lodge your application is on the university’s website. Find out how to apply to CDU.

2. Apply early for a faster response

Don’t leave your application to the last minute. Again. Don’t leave it to the last minute.

If you submit your application early, university staff have plenty of time to liaise with you if there are issues or require any extra documentation.

Plus, an early application leaves you with plenty of time to have your questions answered.

Need help with your CDU application? Contact CDU Student Central.

3. Get organised

Love it or loathe it, there’s a fair bit of paperwork involved with applying to uni. Start getting your documentation together early, ready to apply.

Check online for detailed instructions on the documents you’ll need for your specific course. Print out the list and tick it off as you go. Find your course at CDU.

And don’t forget the basics: if your name has changed and is different on documentation, include proof of a name change.

4. Get your previous grades ready 

Usually, you’ll need some form of previous study in order to apply to university. That may be a Year 12 qualification, a TAFE or VET qualification, another degree, or relevant work history. 

Find out whether you need to supply these yourself or if the admissions body you’re applying to can source these on your behalf.

If you’ve completed a higher education degree and are applying via a third-party admissions centre (such as SATAC), the centre can usually request electronic documents on your behalf.

Remember, if you’ve studied before and you’re waiting on your grades, you can ask for an early grade release or course completion from your previous institution. Supply this with your application as soon as it becomes available.

If you’re using your Year 12 results, these can usually be accessed and verified by admissions bodies.

And, if you’re applying using a TAFE or VET qualification, pay close attention to what’s required with your application. For example, if you need a Certificate IV, then you may not need to supply your Certificate III.

Confused? Need help? Contact CDU Student Central.

5. Most importantly: watch your inbox     

If there is an issue with your application, you’ll normally be notified by email. Keep a close eye on your inbox and respond quickly. During admission periods, university teams are very busy, so they’ll appreciate a speedy response.

Remember, if you need help or advice at any stage, CDU's Student Central team is there to help. You can call us on 1800 061 963 (free call) or email us at student.central@cdu.edu.au.