Starting on the path of higher education is an exciting milestone for your child, but navigating the university admission process can be overwhelming.  

Our Parent’s Guide to the Uni Admission Process equips you with essential insights to navigate the various pathways your child might explore.   

Understanding University Application Options  

Grasping the array of application methods is crucial in guiding your child through the university admission process. Many universities offer direct applications via their websites, enabling students to submit forms and documents online. Alternatively, centralised admissions services like TISC help streamline applications across multiple institutions, including Murdoch University.   

Keeping on top of deadlines and key dates is pivotal. Each university sets distinct deadlines, often varying by course or applicant circumstances, such as early entry schemes or scholarships.  

Maintaining a calendar with critical dates, such as submission deadlines, can help your child stay organised.  

Admission pathways into university  

Graduating year 12 students who are planning to study at university in Semester 1, the following year, can apply through the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC). 

If your teen is applying for an early offer to study a course at Murdoch University, they have until December to apply. They can use their Year 11 ATAR subject results, Year 12 mid-year ATAR subject results, or recognised pathway (e.g. Certificate IV or an enabling program) to meet entry requirements. 

This means your teen can be offered a place at Murdoch University, with the condition that they either complete Year 12 (for ATAR students) or another approved pathway (for non-ATAR students). 

Navigating University Preferences  

Choosing and ranking university preferences is a vital step. Reflecting on career aspirations and academic interests can guide this decision. Begin by researching courses at various universities to see how they align with your child's goals. When ranking preferences, prioritise universities and courses that best fit these aspirations, while considering entry requirements and academic strengths.  

Several factors should inform decision-making, including university location, campus facilities, support services, and extracurricular opportunities,  all of which can influence the university experience. Additionally, examine course structures, such as subject choice flexibility and available internships or industry placements, which are crucial for career development.  

Misconceptions about university preferences can lead to confusion. Some students think they must apply only to prestigious universities or rank only courses they are certain about. However, the admission process is designed to provide options. It’s acceptable to include a mix of courses and institutions, allowing exploration of diverse pathways to educational and career goals.  

Applying through TISC can be broken down into five simple steps: 

1. Visit the TISC website and log in. If you're a Year 12 student eligible to apply, use your WACE candidate number or TISC number. If you don’t have one, you can create an account online. 

2. Choose and rank up to six course preferences, starting with your top choice. 

3. Fill out the application form before the deadline and ensure any required fees are paid. 

4. Save a copy of your application cover sheet for your records, and upload all necessary supporting documents. 

5. Keep an eye on your email—TISC will send a confirmation once your application has been successfully submitted. 

Decoding University Offer Rounds  

Understanding offer rounds is essential in guiding your child through the university admission process. Australian universities typically conduct multiple offer rounds annually, allowing students to receive offers for selected courses. Each round depends on place availability and applicant ranking, influenced by ATAR scores or other criteria.  

Upon receiving an offer, a prompt response is important to ensure that a spot in secured. Parents can help evaluate offers by considering course content, university reputation, and campus facilities. If an offer is acceptable, accepting it swiftly secures a spot. For conditional offers, which require meeting specific criteria like grades or prerequisite units, parents should assist in understanding these conditions and how to fulfil them.  

Distinguishing between conditional and unconditional offers is vital. An unconditional offer signifies all requirements are met, securing a place without further conditions.  

Conditional offers may necessitate achieving certain results or tasks before confirming enrolment. Encourage your child to clarify uncertainties with the university and evaluate options carefully, ensuring a smooth transition into higher education.  

Exploring university enabling pathways 

Not every student is going to study a recognised university pathway, or achieve the ATAR you would like for them, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make their way into uni. We have a number of enabling pathways to study to help students who didn’t excel in high school get ready for university. The good news is they’re free of charge for most students. Here are a few options to consider: 

• OnTrack Sprint – an intensive 4-week program for students who have recently completed Year 12 and aspire to complete a university degree, but do not qualify for direct entry into Murdoch University. 

• OnTrack Flex – a course held over one semester on campus or online, designed to qualify students for admission to any course that has a minimum Selection Rank of 70. 

• K-Track – a 14-week course for Indigenous students to help them develop the skills needed to succeed at university. 

• Experience-based Entry 

• Vocational education and training 

• STAT Entry  

https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/work-and-life-experience 

https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/enabling-pathways/experience-based-entry  

https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/enabling-pathways/experience-based-entry 

https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/vocational-education-and-training   

By considering different options, students can find pathways aligning with strengths, interests, and career aspirations, leading to a fulfilling and successful university experience, ultimately paving the way for future career success. Make sure to check out all the ways you can get into university. 

Non-school leavers applying for most undergraduate, honours and postgraduate courses, will do so directly to Murdoch University through our convenient online portal. 

Applying through Murdoch University’s MyAdmissions can be broken down into four simple steps: 

1. Head to the MyAdmission portal and either register for a new Applicant ID or sign in using your existing credentials. 

2. Fill out the online application form. Make sure you have the course name or code handy—this information is available on the course detail pages. 

3. Upload your academic transcript along with any other required documents in Word or PDF format. 

4. After submitting your application, you can monitor its progress directly through the MyAdmission system. 

The Offer from Murdoch University 

Receiving an offer is an exciting milestone on your child’s journey with Murdoch University! 

No matter whether they applied via TISC or directly through Murdoch University, their offer will be sent to them by email—so be sure to encourage them to check their inbox regularly. If they receive an offer, it’s important to respond by the deadline stated in the email, or request an extension if needed. 

Looking for more info on how to best support your child throughout the final stages of high school and applying for uni? Check out our series for more tips.