Course Overview

About This Course

We know your Year 12 results don't tell the full story of what you're capable of as a uni student. When you apply for a course in our Early Entry Program, your application is assessed using a recommendation from your school instead of an ATAR.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

Your application is assessed using a recommendation from your school instead of an ATAR
You must choose a course from the list of Early Entry Program eligible courses
You must arrange a school referee — this might be the teacher of your favourite subject, a career practitioner, your school's principal, or a year level coordinator
You must complete an online questionnaire and forward your confirmation email to your school referee so they can complete the recommendation form and submit it to Swinburne
When the VTAC portal opens in August, you must add your chosen course to your VTAC preference list to be considered for a full offer
Students applying for early entry to the Bachelor of Aviation or Bachelor of Aviation/Bachelor of Business are required to complete a skills assessment test, in addition to supplying a school recommendation
Students applying for early entry to the Bachelor of Design (Fashion) are required to submit a portfolio in addition to their school recommendation
Students applying for early entry to the Bachelor of Design may choose to submit a portfolio, along with their school recommendation, to support their application

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

ASQA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Early Entry Program and how does it differ from standard university entry?

The Early Entry Program allows your application to be assessed using a recommendation from your school instead of an ATAR. Swinburne is the only university in Victoria with ATAR-free entry for all eligible courses, meaning your Year 12 results are not required to secure an early offer.

When do Early Entry Program applications open and close?

Applications for the 2026 intake open on 4 May 2026 and close on Friday 27 November 2026. Application outcomes start being issued from 1 September 2026, and the VTAC portal opens on 3 August 2026.

Who can I ask to be my school referee for the Early Entry Program?

Your school referee might be the teacher of your favourite subject, a career practitioner, your school's principal, or a year level coordinator. Swinburne advises you to choose someone who knows your strengths.

Are there any courses that require additional steps beyond the school recommendation?

Yes. Students applying for the Bachelor of Aviation or Bachelor of Aviation/Bachelor of Business are required to complete a skills assessment test in addition to supplying a school recommendation. Students applying for the Bachelor of Design (Fashion) are required to submit a portfolio in addition to their school recommendation, and students applying for the Bachelor of Design may choose to submit a portfolio to support their application.

Do I still need to apply through VTAC if I receive an Early Entry offer?

Yes. When the VTAC portal opens in August, you must add your chosen Early Entry Program course to your VTAC preference list so you can be considered for a full offer.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

💬

Need guidance?

Free advisor support

Our advisors help international students choose the right course and navigate visa pathways — at no cost.

Quick Tools

PR Points Calculator Visa Funds Calculator Compare Courses

Partner with Find the Courses