FAQs
Admissions and Pathways
Yes. CQU offers a range of alternative entry pathways for students who do not have an ATAR. The options vary depending on your background and previous experience, including previous study, VET qualifications, work experience, mature-age entry, and pathway programs such as Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory (STEPS). Visit our Entry Pathways page to learn more about your options.
Pathway options vary depending on your circumstances and the course you’re interested in. You may be able to take advantage of our seamless pathways between TAFE and university courses or start a pathway program to help you get into your chosen degree. Visit our Entry Pathways page to learn more about your options or Book a Conversation with our friendly team.
Whether you need to complete an English language test depends on the course you're applying for and whether you meet the English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements. Each course has specific ELP requirements, which are listed under the ‘Requirements’ tab on the relevant course page. If you do not meet these requirements through your previous studies or other accepted evidence, you may need to complete an approved English language test. Visit our English Requirements page for more information.
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning
Credit is typically granted based on your previous formal study, such as completed units or qualifications that are recognised as equivalent to parts of your new course. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assesses the skills and knowledge you’ve gained through work, life experience, or informal learning to determine if they meet course requirements.
Credit transfer may be available for completed university, TAFE, RTO or overseas qualifications that are assessed as equivalent in content, knowledge and learning outcomes to units within your CQUniversity course. To discover your eligibility, visit our Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Some courses allow Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) based on relevant professional experience, industry certifications, and workplace learning. Each application is assessed individually. To discover your eligibility, visit our Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning page.
The amount of credit you may receive depends on your previous study and the course requirements. An assessment is completed once a formal application and supporting documentation is submitted. To discover your eligibility, visit our Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning page.
As applications for credit and RPL are assessed on a case-by-case basis, it’s important that you allow enough time for your application to be processed ahead of your studies. Ensure you submit your application at least four (4) weeks before the commencement of your studies.
Online Study
Many courses are available online. However, some may require students to attend compulsory residential schools or participate in placements, practical classes, or intensive workshops. Check the relevant course page under the ‘Structure and Availability’ tab for information about residential schools and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) requirements for your course.
Additionally, you can view the current course planner to see when these requirements are scheduled throughout the duration of your studies.
Whether you're working full-time, raising a family, living in a regional area or returning to study after a break, flexible study options can help you achieve your goals while managing your existing commitments. Check the course page or our Study Online page to discover what is possible.
Residental Schools and Placements
Requirements vary by course and year level. Health, education, and science courses commonly include residential schools. Where possible, residential school requirements are scheduled in blocks to help minimise travel and associated costs. Check the course page under the 'Structure and Availability' tab for specific requirements.
Placement arrangements vary by course. Some placements are organised by the University, while others may involve student participation in sourcing opportunities. Check the course page for specific requirements.
Enrolment and Study Planning
Once you have accepted your offer, visit the Study view of MyCQU, select Manage Course, and then Plan and Enrol in Units. If you're unsure which units to choose, refer to your course planner or contact Student Advice. Visit the Enrol in Units article in MyCQU for further information (login required).
Our MyCQU Checklist will guide you through the next steps to get your studies underway, including enrolling in units. However, at any time, you can also enrol by visiting the Study view and selecting Manage Course. Visit the Enrol in Units article in MyCQU for further information (login required).
Get expert advice on course planning, enrolment, graduation eligibility or unit selection by completing the ‘Ask A Course Advisor’ form in MyCQU (login required).
Fees and Financial Assistance
No. If your HECS-HELP application has been approved and submitted correctly, eligible tuition fees are deferred to your student loan. To learn more visit our Paying for Uni page.
CQU offers a range of scholarships designed to support students from diverse backgrounds and study pathways.
Payment plans requests are only considered in extenuating circumstances and are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Students may request to fill out the payment plan form by contacting Student Service SPOT by calling 13 27 86 or emailing advice@cqu.edu.au.
Eligibility depends on the qualification, your study history and government funding rules. To discover your eligibility, visit our Paying for TAFE page.
The Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) is a new Australian Government initiative designed to support eligible students undertaking mandatory practical placements. It aims to reduce financial pressure and help students complete their studies. To discover your eligibility, visit our Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) page.
Student Completion Records and Documents
Official academic documents can be accessed through My eQuals once they have been issued. Visit our Academic Awards page to learn more.
If your documents are missing, submit an enquiry and include your student number and qualification details.
Enrolment and study confirmation letters can be generated in MyCQU. Go to Support, then Student Forms to find and submit the relevant form (login required). Available forms vary by student type and include Study Confirmation and Vacation Statements for International students, Statement of Completion (Graduating Students Only), and Official Enrolment Statements for HE, STEPS and Be Different.
Current Students
MyCQU is your personalised student portal to manage your study, ask questions, and get support. Log in to check enrolment, key dates, and essential information.
Ask us a Question
Didn’t find the answers you were looking for? Send in your question and our friendly staff will be happy to answer it.
