Mature-age and alternative entry

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Work experience

Applicants who have spent at least six months in full-time employment can have their work experience translated into an Entry Rank. The rank will be determined by the type of employment and length of time employed in that area. A statement of service or signed reference confirming the work experience must be obtained by the applicant and submitted with their QTAC application. The work does not necessarily have to be in an area related to the proposed field of study. The table on pages 30 and 31 of Real Options lists a number of occupations and the ranks QUT allocates.

Applicants using vocational experience as a means of entry to QUT are also encouraged to complete a personal competencies assessment and to sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT).

Life experience

Life skills and experience can also be used as a basis for entry to QUT. Applicants have the opportunity to demonstrate how these skills/experience can help them meet the demands of study through a personal competencies assessment (PCA). Applicants nominate to sit a PCA on their QTAC form and provide a statement in support.

The application guide accompanying the QTAC form lists the areas that must be addressed in the statement. These are:

• things you have done to prepare for tertiary study
• reasons for choosing your preferred course of study
• your capacity for independent study
• the skills, knowledge and abilities you believe will help you succeed in your studies
• your communication skills
• sources of support you have or can put in place to enhance your success at university.

Applicants are also encouraged to sit the STAT as this may improve their PCA rank.

Adult tertiary preparation

Completion of a Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation (ATP) is another pathway to QUT. ATP is offered by a number of education providers throughout Queensland. The GPA in a minimum of five ATP subjects is used to calculate a rank which provides the basis for entry.

ATP can also be used to meet Assumed Knowledge requirements.

Special tertiary admissions test

The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) is an aptitude test that allows applicants to demonstrate their suitability for tertiary study. Applicants can only sit one STAT per admissions period. When an applicant has sat the STAT more than once they will only be assessed on their higher result.

QUT only accepts STAT results in conjunction with other selection criteria such as Alternative Entry, ATP and External Senior results.