Student Handbook, Semester 1, 2010: Admissions - Institutional Operating Policy | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

Responsible officer: Deputy Vice-Chancellor
Designated officer: Director, Student Administration
Approving authority: Academic Board
Approval: 3 September 2009
Last amended: 3 September 2009
Effective starting date: 14 September 2009
Any rules/policies replaced Academic Rules by this policy:
Policy number: AB11
Related policies:

Academic Progress and Exclusion – Institutional Operating Policy
Credit Transfer - Institutional Operating Policy
Enrolments – Institutional Operating Policy
Grading Scale and Grade Point Average – Institutional Operating Policy
Graduation - Institutional Operating Policy
Recognition of Prior Learning for Program Credit - Institutional Operating Policy
Structure and Requirements of Degrees Awarded by the University – Institutional Operating Policy
Student Conduct and Discipline Policy
Student Grievances and Appeals - Governing Policy

Due date for next review: 3 September 2014

Part A: Preliminary

1. Purpose of policy

This policy is intended to provide a broad framework, set of principles and minimal requirements for determining, admission to coursework programs of the University.

2. Application of policy

This policy applies to all staff, decision-making bodies, and students enrolled in, or proposing to enrol in, coursework programs of the University, and agents and partners of the University. The policy does not apply to applicants or candidates for bachelor honours degrees and higher degrees by research.

3. Definitions

In this policy the following definitions apply:

“Admission Level” means the basic measure of academic merit for tertiary admission purposes, expressed as a Tertiary Entrance Rank or Admission Rank.

“Admission rank” means a score (0 – 99) allocated through an admission schedule to represent particular qualifications, education or other experience of an applicant and used to determine the applicant’s eligibility for an admission offer and to rank applicants for competitive selection.

“Admission Schedule” means an approved schedule by which an admission rank is assigned to a particular qualification, experience or characteristic held by an applicant. (see section 6.1)

“Commonwealth supported places” means student places which are available to non-international students, that is, Australian citizens and permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens, and which are funded partly on the basis of funding from the Commonwealth Government to the University and partly through the fee the student is charged, which is called the "Student Contribution".

“Domestic fee-paying places” means student places which are available to non-international students, that is, Australian citizens and permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens, in which the student pays a tuition fee.

“Exclusion” means exclusion from the University for a minimum period of one year, after which period the student must reapply for admission if they are seeking re-enrolment.

“Expulsion” means permanent exclusion from the University.

“International student places” means student places which are available to students who hold an Australian student visa.

“Nested programs” means two or more award programs at different levels (e.g. Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Master degree or Associate Degree and Degree) that are connected to enable a student to progress from one program to the next and gain recognition of studies completed in the lower level program.

“Overall Position (OP) score” means a tertiary entrance score (1 – 25) awarded by the Queensland Studies Authority to eligible students who have completed Year 12 in Queensland.

“Pre-requisite” means specified minimum requirements an applicant must satisfy in order to be considered eligible for admission to a particular program.

“Program” means a set of coherently scoped, sequenced and structured studies or courses undertaken by a student in order to meet the requirements for award of a qualification, other than a higher degree by research that is conferred by the Council of the University of the Sunshine Coast

“Offer” means the formal notification from the University or the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre on behalf of the University, offering an applicant a place in a nominated program under specified conditions, such as location, mode of study, whether the offer is for a Commonwealth supported place, a domestic fee-paying place or an international student place.

“QTAC” means the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre, which is the organisation established in Queensland to coordinate the admission processes of participating institutions for undergraduate and, in some cases, postgraduate programs.

“Quota” means the number of places available for students to commence study in a particular study period.

"Suspension" means a prescribed, enforced period of time away from the university after which the student may resume their studies.

“Tertiary Entrance Rank” means a score (expressed as a rank from 0 – 99 or as an OP from 1-25) allocated by a Studies Authority to represent the educational order of merit of an applicant who has completed Year 12 and used to determine the applicant’s eligibility for an admission offer and to rank applicants for competitive selection.

“Year 12” means the final year of Secondary Schooling in the Queensland School System or equivalent.

Part B: Policy

4. Principles

4.0.1 The University’s admission policy and practices are designed to put into effect the following principles:

(a) Admission offers are made to applicants who are judged to have the background and abilities to have a reasonable expectation of success in the program to which they are made an offer and who are likely to benefit from university study.

(b) Admission offers are made broadly on merit based on demonstrated achievement, especially academic achievement, but may also take account of other factors such as demonstrated skills, commitment, employment history and specific achievements related to particular fields of endeavour.

(c) In its admissions, the University also seeks to provide access to persons who have experienced educational or social disadvantage and to address the under-representation of specific community groups in university education.

(d) In support of the University’s commitment to regional engagement, in its admissions, the University seeks to engage with and serve the residents of the region in which the University is located.

(e) The University may seek to achieve other strategic objectives through its admissions.

(f) Where the number of places in a program is limited by a quota, places will be offered in order of merit of applicants.

5. Context for admission

5.0.1 Admission to the University’s programs will be consistent with requirements and guidelines contained within the current versions of the:

Australian Qualifications Framework Implementation Handbook
Principles for the Provision of Education by Australian Universities (Universities Australia)
Provision of Education to International Students, Code of Practice and Guidelines for Australian Universities (Universities Australia)
National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students

and consistent with the assessment of any overseas qualification by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR) or as documented in current Country Education Profiles issued by Australian Education International or grades awarded under the European Credit Transfer System for completed courses.

6. Requirements for admission – undergraduate programs

6.1 Admission schedules

6.1.1 Admission schedules are used to determine the admission ranks of applicants which are the basis of determining whether an applicant meets the requirements for admission and for determining the order of merit of applicants when admission places are limited by quota. Admission schedules represent equivalencies and relativities between different qualifications and experiences in terms of fitness for and likelihood of success in university study.

6.1.2 The content of admission schedules is based on statistical studies conducted by the University, by the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC), other universities and organisations; the practices of other universities; the advice of educational authorities; and the judgement of university officers.

6.1.3 Admission schedules may apply to admission to all programs or to specific programs and to all applicants or to specific groups of applicants.

6.1.4 Admission schedules are approved by the Director, Student Administration unless a proposed new schedule or changes to an existing schedule deals with a new issue of admission policy, in which case, the admission schedule is approved by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

6.1.5 The set of approved admission schedules are publicly available documents.

6.2 Entry requirements

6.2.1 The entry requirements for each undergraduate program are approved by the Academic Board on the recommendation of the relevant Faculty.

6.2.2 Where the program is available to applicants on the basis of Year 12 study or equivalent, the entry requirements shall comprise:

(a) the standard admission requirements specified in section 6.3; and

(b) the specification of admission pre-requisites where relevant (see section 6.7); and

(d) the specification of special selection criteria where relevant (see section 6.4).

6.2.3 Where the program is not available to applicants on the basis of Year 12 study, the entry requirements shall be specified and approved as part of the program requirements.

6.3 Standard Admission for undergraduate programs available to applicants on the basis of Year 12 or equivalent study

6.3.1 For admission to a Commonwealth supported (quota) place

To be eligible for an admission offer through standard admission, an applicant shall:

(a) have completed study at Year 12 level or equivalent according to the relevant Admission Schedule; and

(b) have satisfied any admission pre-requisites (see section 6.7);

(d) have gained an offer of a quota place through a competitive admission round; or have gained an offer of a quota place with an admission level equal to or above the cut-off resulting from a competitive admission round.

6.3.2 For admission to an international student place

To be eligible for an admission offer through standard admission, an applicant shall:

(a) be assessed as eligible for admission on the basis of an approved admission schedule giving the equivalence of the applicant’s academic qualifications with Australian Year 12 study at the required level; and

(b) have satisfied any admission pre-requisites (see section 6.7); and

Where a quota is applied to international student places in a program, the applicant shall have met the conditions to achieve a quota place.

6.3.3 Other types of applicant

Persons who are not Australian citizens, Australian Permanent residents, New Zealand citizens or holders of an Australian student visa are required to have their citizenship / visa status reviewed to determine whether they are eligible for a Commonwealth supported place or an international student place. This determination is made by the Director, Student Administration or nominee, in accordance with the Commonwealth Government requirements.

6.4 Special criteria for admission

6.4.1 For specified programs, selection for admission may be based on special criteria in addition to, in combination with, or in place of standard admission requirements.

6.4.2 Special criteria may include:

(a) performance in an audition

(b) presentation of a folio of creative work

(d) responses in an interview

(e) demonstrated achievement of specified vocational or professional standards.

6.4.3 The details of the special criteria, whether the criteria will be used in combination with standard admission criteria or in place of standard admission criteria, and the way in which the criteria are used to select applicants to receive an offer, are approved by the Academic Board on the recommendation of the relevant Faculty.

6.4.4 The special criteria for admission are included in the program admission requirements published on the University’s web site and may be incorporated in an Admission Schedule.

6.5 Special entry admission pathways

6.5.1 The University may approve special entry admission pathways for particular purposes, including:

(a) to meet the needs of its local communities

(b) to provide access to persons who have experienced educational or social disadvantage

(d) to pursue strategic objectives.

6.5.2 Each special entry admission pathway is approved by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and is recorded as an approved Admissions Schedule.

The Special Entry Admission Pathways include, but are not limited to, the following.

(a) Regional Preference Scheme

The Regional Preference Scheme is designed to provide improved access to undergraduate programs offered by the University to persons in the University’s region. Under the Regional Preference Scheme, applicants for University undergraduate programs who reside in, or attend school in the Sunshine Coast region and surrounds are given an additional one OP or two admission ranks for selection through standard admission.

For the Regional Preference Scheme, the Sunshine Coast region and surrounds is defined as the regional council areas of Sunshine Coast, Gympie, Moreton Bay, Somerset, Fraser Coast and South Burnett.

(b) Headstart Scheme

The Headstart Scheme is designed to give secondary school students in Years 11 and 12 the opportunity to study at the University while still at school.

Applications require the support of the student’s Secondary School.

Entry to University degrees via the Headstart Scheme is subject to the applicant successfully completing Year 12 studies. The applicant must also satisfy any Year 12 pre-requisite conditions.

Headstart Scheme students who successfully complete two University courses (grade of Pass or better) are given an admission rank via the relevant Admission Schedule. This admission rank provides entry to the majority of University degrees. In some cases, grades higher than a Pass may be required in order to achieve an admission rank above the program cut-off.

The Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) is designed to provide an alternative pathway to tertiary study for persons who are not eligible for admission through standard admission requirements. The TPP also provides for prospective tertiary students to update their academic skills and also to experience university life before committing to a degree program.

Students admitted to the TPP are able to study up to four courses on a full-time or part-time basis.

Students who successfully complete TPP are eligible for admission to a University degree. An offer of admission depends on the student meeting any pre-requisite conditions and achieving an admission rank via the relevant Admission Schedule that is above the program cut-off.

The TPP is free of charge for Commonwealth supported students (Australian citizens and permanent residents and New Zealand citizens).

Courses completed through TPP cannot be used as the basis for an application for credit transfer on entry to a University program.

(d) Indigenous Alternative Entry Scheme

The Indigenous Alternative Entry Scheme is designed to improve the access to university for persons of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island descent, and takes account of the educational disadvantage that persons in this category may have experienced.

Selection for admission is based on an assessment of attitude, desire to study at the University and academic ability.

(e) Vocational Education and Training (VET) Entry Pathways

VET certificates or diploma studies can provide an entry pathway to undergraduate study at the University. Admission is facilitated via the relevant Admission Schedule(s). In addition, the University and the Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE offer dual degrees/diploma programs in a range of disciplines.

6.6 Exceptional cases

Provision is made to admit individual persons who may not meet the standard admission criteria but, on the basis of other considerations, are persons who have a high probability of success in university study and whose admission is considered to bring benefits to both the University and the applicant.

Applications for admission under this category require the support of the relevant Dean. Admission offers are made by the Director, Student Administration or, in the case of international students, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality).

6.7 Pre-requisites for admission

6.7.1 Pre-requisites are the minimum requirements an applicant must satisfy to be considered for admission to a particular program. Pre-requisites may include Year 12 subjects completed to a specified level of achievement, or other requirements such as particular qualifications, experiences, or performance in specified tests, or fulfilling requirements such as medical certification or criminal history checks.

6.7.2 In considering the case for Year 12 subjects as admission pre-requisites, the following factors should be taken into account:

(a) the relationship between the program’s first year curriculum and the knowledge and/or skill provided by the Year 12 subject;

(b) the requirements of the relevant professional bodies;

(d) equity considerations;

(e) the pre-requisites for similar programs in this and other universities;

(f) special provisions for those without the pre-requisites such as special entry pathways.

6.7.3 For Year 12 subjects used for admission purposes there are three categories:

Specified Pre-requisite: For the applicant to be eligible for an offer of admission, they must have completed the specified pre-requisite at the required level of achievement or satisfied the pre-requisite by an alternate means as set out in the relevant admission schedule.

Recommended Study: Where a Year 12 subject is specified as recommended study, it is strongly recommended that applicants have knowledge of the subject, but it is not compulsory. An applicant who has not undertaken the recommended study subject is not prevented from receiving an admission offer.

Assumed knowledge: Where a Year 12 subject and level of achievement are specified as assumed knowledge, this level of knowledge is assumed in the first year curriculum and is considered necessary for successful first year study. An applicant lacking the assumed level of knowledge is not prevented from being made an offer; however the applicant may be disadvantaged unless they undertake recommended bridging, preparatory or introductory courses prior to or during their first year of study.

Where knowledge on the part of students entering the program is assumed, the University must give clear and constructive advice to prospective students on the nature and extent of disciplinary knowledge that is assumed and how students can achieve the level of knowledge required.

6.7.4 The pre-requisites for admission are specified in the program proposal documents for the introduction of a new program, and are approved by the Academic Board. A change in admission pre-requisites for an existing program must be approved by the body identified in the Program Accreditation and Course Approval - Governing and Institutional Operating Policy on the recommendation of the relevant Faculty.

6.7.5 Any change in admission pre-requisites for an existing program that introduces new or higher requirements requires two years notice before coming into effect. A change which does not introduce new or higher requirements may be introduced without notice.

7. Requirements for admission – postgraduate coursework programs

7.0.1 Admission to the University's postgraduate coursework programs is based on academic merit and approved entry requirements, and whether the program is classified as a graduate program (postgraduate in time) or postgraduate program (postgraduate in level)

7.0.2 Each postgraduate coursework program shall have a set of entry requirements as specified in the program proposal documents, which is approved by the Academic Board on the recommendation of the relevant Faculty. The entry requirements for the program shall be consistent with the general entry requirements listed below and shall include such specific requirements as needed to select applicants that are equipped to undertake the program successfully and benefit from it.

7.1 Entry Requirements – graduate programs (postgraduate in time)

7.1.1 The entry requirement for admission to a graduate program (postgraduate in time) shall normally be a bachelor degree from an Australian higher education institution or a qualification assessed as equivalent by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR). The discipline area of the bachelor degree is expected to be different from the discipline area of the graduate program.

7.1.2 Applicants must also satisfy the University’s English language proficiency requirements as set out in section 8.0.

7.1.3 The entry requirements for a specific graduate program may specify whether:

(a) some prior study in a particular area is recommended or required;

(b) a minimum GPA in undergraduate study is required;

(d) particular prior study is incompatible with admission to the program;

(e) particular work or professional experience is required;

(f) professional standing/recognition in, or membership of, a professional body is required;

(g) a written candidate statement is required;

(h) an interview is required;

(i) the program is open to international applicants.

7.1.4 In the case of Graduate Certificate programs, alternative entry criteria may be specified such as:

(a) formal study undertaken for awards at the sub-degree level;

(b) programs provided by recognised professional bodies, employers and other authorities;

(d) demonstrable expertise.

7.2 Entry Requirements – postgraduate programs (postgraduate in level)

7.2.1 The entry requirement for admission to a postgraduate program (postgraduate in level) shall normally be a bachelor degree from an Australian higher education institution or a qualification recognised as equivalent by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR). The bachelor degree is normally required to be in an area related to the discipline area of the postgraduate program.

7.2.2 Applicants must also satisfy the University’s English language proficiency requirements as set out in section 8.0.

7.2.3 The entry requirements for a specific postgraduate program may specify whether:

(a) a specific undergraduate area(s) of study is required or recommended;

(b) an Honours degree is required;

(d) other qualifications are acceptable in lieu of a degree;

(e) particular work or professional experience is required;

(f) professional standing/recognition in, or membership of, a professional body is required;

(g) a written candidate statement is required;

(h) an interview is required;

(i) the program is open to international applicants.

7.3 Competitive admission

7.3.1 Where the number of applicants for admission to a postgraduate program exceeds, or is expected to exceed, the quota for the program, applicants will be selected on academic merit, based on a Grade Point Average (GPA) calculated on the applicant’s performance in the qualification identified in the program’s entry requirements.

7.4 Supervision and resources

7.4.1 In selecting applicants for admission, consideration will be given to the availability of an appropriate supervisor and/or the necessary resources to undertake research or project work when this is integral to the coursework program. An application for admission may be rejected on the grounds of the inability of the University to provide suitable supervision or resources.

8. English language proficiency requirements

8.0.1 Proficiency in the English language is required for entry to all programs and courses.

8.0.2 Applicants for an international student place must satisfy the English Language Proficiency Requirements set out in Appendix 1.

8.0.3 Other applicants whose first language is not English and who have not previously undertaken at least two full time years of secondary study or one full time year of tertiary study where the language of instruction was English must satisfy the English Language Proficiency Requirements set out in Appendix 1.

8.0.4 Any applicant whose first language is not English and who is seeking admission on the basis of a qualification undertaken in a language other than English must satisfy the English Language Proficiency Requirements set out in Appendix 1.

9. Admission processes

9.0.1 This section describes the processes associated with admission. These processes generally apply to undergraduate and postgraduate programs and to domestic and international students, and non-award students. Specific requirements for international students are prescribed in Section 11 and for non-award students in Section 12.

9.1 Admission quotas

9.1.1 The University sets quotas for the number of commencing students in each study period. Quotas may be set for each program, for groups of programs, and for types of students (Commonwealth supported, international, and so on). Quotas are set to support orderly planning for the University, to meet Commonwealth Government requirements, and to ensure that adequate resources are available to support student learning.

9.1.2 Quotas are approved by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor. Quotas may be changed during an admission period to meet University requirements.

9.2 Admission applications

9.2.1 Persons seeking to be admitted to a program offered by the University must make application directly to the University or to QTAC or to an organisation authorised to act on behalf of the University, as required. Application forms and instructions, including the documentation to be submitted with the application, the method of application and application due dates are available on the University’s web site, or via QTAC.

9.3 Offers

9.3.1 Admission offers are made to applicants who are eligible for admission to the particular program under this admission policy. Where the number of eligible applicants exceeds the quota places available, applicants are selected by order of merit.

9.3.2 Offers of admission to commencing students specify the particular program and, where applicable, attendance mode, attendance type, campus and major for which the offer is made. Students are required to enrol in accordance with the offer of admission (and complete at least the first study period accordingly. In special circumstances, Deans of Faculty may approve exceptions to this policy.

9.3.3 Offers to domestic student applicants are made on the authority of the Director, Student Administration.

9.3.4 Offers made through QTAC are made on the authority of the Director, Student Administration.

9.3.5 Offers to international student applicants are made on the authority of the Pro Vice- Chancellor (International and Quality).

9.4 Acceptances and lapsing of offers

9.4.1 A person receiving an offer of admission must respond to accept the offer by the due date and by the process specified in the notice of offer.

9.4.2 If an applicant fails to accept the admission offer by the due date specified in the notice of offer, the offer will lapse.

9.4.3 An applicant may apply to reinstate a lapsed offer. The authorised officer (section 6.3) may reinstate a lapsed offer if places are still available in the relevant program and student category.

9.5 Deferment

9.5.1 Deferment is accepting the offer of a place in the program but deferring enrolment in the program for a specified period, normally one year. The maximum period of deferment is two years.

9.5.2 Deferment is not available:

(a) to non-award students, except Study Abroad and International Exchange students;

(b) in specific programs where it has been decided that it is not appropriate to offer commencing students the opportunity of deferring their studies. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor approves the designation of such programs.

9.5.3 An applicant receiving an admission offer through QTAC who wishes to defer admission must respond to QTAC selecting the deferment offer response option. The applicant should not enrol or pay fees to the University in response to their QTAC offer.

9.5.4 An applicant receiving an admission offer directly from the University who wishes to defer admission must respond to the notice of offer by advising of their request for deferment.

9.5.5 The University notifies all persons who have an approved deferment of admission.

9.5.6 At the end of the deferment period, the applicant is guaranteed a place in the program at the location for which the original admission offer was made, providing that the program is available to commencing students in that year. If the program is no longer offered or has been substantially changed, the University will endeavour to offer the student a place in an appropriate alternate program.

9.5.7 Towards the end of the deferment period, the University’s Student Administration will contact the applicant and advise them of the action they must take to take up their deferred place. If the required action is not taken by the due date, the offer of a deferred place will lapse.

9.5.8 The applicant with a deferred place must keep Student Administration informed of their current contact details.

9.5.9 An applicant’s deferred place may be withdrawn if they are subsequently excluded from another tertiary institution, if they neglect to notify the University of a change of contact details, or if they apply for admission to other programs.

9.6 Withdrawal of offer of admission

9.6.1 The University reserves the right to withdraw an offer and cancel the enrolment of any person where an offer was made on the basis of incomplete or inaccurate or fraudulent information supplied by the applicant or a certifying authority, or where an applicant is excluded from any tertiary institution or tertiary program at any time (see Section 10.0).

9.7 Appeals

9.7.1 Unsuccessful admission applicants who seek to appeal against an admission decision should address their complaint to the Admissions Manager, Student Administration or, for international students, the Manager Admissions USC International. The relevant staff member reviews the case and provides the complainant with the reason for the admission decision. If an error has been made, it will be corrected at the first available opportunity.

9.7.2 If the complainant is still not satisfied with the explanation for the rejection of their admission application, the applicant may lodge a formal appeal with the Director, Student Administration or, in the case of international students, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality).

10. Excluded students

10.0.1 An applicant for admission who is under suspension, exclusion or expulsion on the basis of academic performance, misconduct or disciplinary reasons, from any tertiary institution or program or course, whether in Australia or elsewhere, is required to include all details of the suspension, exclusion or expulsion in their application for admission.

10.0.2 If the University makes an offer of admission before becoming aware that the student has been suspended, excluded or expelled, the University reserves the right to withdraw an offer and cancel the enrolment of any person where an applicant is excluded from any tertiary institution or tertiary program at any time.

10.1 Exclusion and Expulsion from the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC)
10.1.1 If the applicant has previously been excluded from the University, they must seek readmission after exclusion as provided for in the University’s Academic Progress and Exclusion – Institutional Operating Policy. This applies whether the applicant is seeking admission to a program they have been previously enrolled in or a different program. An application for admission after exclusion is subject to the approval of the relevant Dean.

10.1.2 If the applicant has previously been expelled from the University, readmission to any program is subject to the approval of Council as provided for in the University’s Student Conduct and Discipline Policy.

10.2 Excluded from another institution

10.2.1 An applicant who has been suspended or excluded from another institution will not be considered for admission until their period of exclusion or suspension has elapsed. An applicant who has been suspended or excluded from another institution may present a submission outlining their case for the suspension / exclusion to be put aside and their application for admission to be considered on its merits. Such a submission will be considered initially by the Director, Student Administration, and if the case has merit it will be referred to the relevant Dean who may approve or reject the application.

11. Transfer of program

11.0.1 A student who is currently enrolled in a program and who has not completed the requirements for graduation from the program may under certain conditions transfer to another program.

The conditions and process for such transfers are as follows.

11.1 Undergraduate programs

11.1.1 Applications for transfer must be lodged at Student Administration by the date prescribed in the Academic Calendar.

11.1.2 To be eligible for transfer, the applicant must satisfy the entry requirements for the program. In particular, the applicant must have an admission rank calculated via the relevant Admission Schedule that is at least equivalent to the cut-off score for the program to which transfer is sought in the latest or current admission period; and there must be a quota place available in the program.

11.1.3 Applications for transfer require the approval of the Director, Student Administration, or staff delegated for this purpose.

11.2 Postgraduate programs

11.2.1 Postgraduate students wishing to change programs must apply for admission to the new program, and if successful in gaining admission, terminate their enrolment in their current program.

11.2.2 Transfer between nested programs is subject to the admission conditions set down in the program requirements being satisfied.

11.3 International students

11.3.1 Applications from international students for transfer between programs are assessed on their merits, taking account of the requirements associated with student visas, the entry requirements and the availability of places for international students in the desired program.

12. Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning for credit transfer

12.0.1 A person applying for an admission offer or having received an admission offer may apply for credit transfer on the basis of prior study or on the basis of relevant skills and experience according to the Credit Transfer - Institutional Operating Policy and Recognition of Prior Learning for Program Credit - Institutional Operating Policy.

13. Readmission after a period of absence

13.0.1The Enrolments - Institutional Operating Policy provides for students who have discontinued their enrolment in a program to be readmitted to the same program under certain conditions.

14. International student admission

14.0.1 International students seeking admission must satisfy the standard admission requirements as outlined in Section 6 and Section 7, together with the English Language Proficiency requirements set out in Section 8.

14.0.2 International students on a student visa may only be admitted to a program that is offered in a full-time, on campus mode. Where a program is not available to international students, this should be specified on the University’s web site.

14.1 International students who gain permanent resident status

14.1.1 An international student who gains permanent resident status is able to transfer to a Commonwealth-supported place or domestic fee-paying place, according to the type of places normally available to domestic students in the particular program. On transfer, the student is liable for the student contribution or tuition fee, as applicable.

14.1.2 If the permanent resident status is granted after the census date of a teaching session, the student remains liable for the international student fee for that teaching session and the change of status comes into effect from the next teaching session in which the student enrols.

14.2 Admission as a study abroad student
14.2.1 Students undertaking an award program at a recognised overseas institution may apply for admission as a Study Abroad Student to undertake one or two study periods of study at the University of the Sunshine Coast for credit towards their degree at their home institution.

14.2.2 For admission as a Study Abroad student the applicant must:

Identify the courses to be undertaken

(a) supply evidence of approval of the home institution

(b) satisfy the minimum entry requirements for the program as set out in this policy and the specific entry requirements for the program

(d) satisfy the English Language Proficiency requirements

(e) enrol on a full-time basis.

15. Non-Award enrolment

15.0.1 The University offers the opportunity for persons to undertake one or more courses without being admitted to an award program. Study as a non-award student does not permit the student to complete all the requirements of an award program and does not lead to graduation.

15.0.2 There are four types of non–award students:

(a) a student enrolled in a non-award program, such as a Tertiary Preparation Pathway

(b) a cross-institutionally enrolled student

(d) a student who audits courses

15.0.3 Non-award students are subject to the policies and procedures of the University.

15.0.4 Persons may apply for admission as a non-award student by completing the application procedures prescribed on the University web site.

15.1 Cross-Institution enrolment

15.1.1 Cross-institution enrolment provides for a student enrolled in an award program at another institution to undertake one or more courses at the University for the purpose of counting for credit towards the award requirements of their program at their home institution.

15.1.2 Cross-institution enrolment is normally only available to students in a Commonwealth-supported place at their home institution. Students in fee-paying places are advised to enrol as visiting students.

15.1.3 To be admitted as a cross-institution student, the student must make application, nominating the particular course(s) the student wishes to undertake and providing evidence that their home institution approves cross-institution study and will give credit on successful completion of the nominated course(s). The applicant is required to satisfy any pre-requisites for the nominated course(s).

15.1.4 Approval for cross-institution enrolment will be granted providing places are available in the nominated course(s).

15.1.5 Cross-institution enrolled students are given an official grade for each course they undertake and are entitled to receive an official academic transcript.

15.2 Visiting student

15.2.1 A visiting student undertakes an individual course or courses for professional or personal development. Visiting students receive normal instruction and are expected to participate in all activities associated with a course including all assessment and examinations. Visiting students are given an official grade for each course they undertake and are entitled to receive an official academic transcript.

15.2.2 Applicants for admission as a visiting student complete the required application procedure and provide evidence of prior study, qualifications and experience to support their application.

15.2.3 Approval of enrolment as a visiting student is subject to:

(a) the applicant having educational background and experience that is considered by the relevant Dean as providing sufficient basis for the student to benefit from the course(s);

(b) the availability of places in the course(s);

(c) where the applicant’s first language is not English, the applicant having a level of English proficiency sufficient to successfully undertake the course(s).

15.2.4 The University determines a fee per course for students undertaking studies as a visiting student.

15.3 Auditing courses

15.3.1 Persons who audit a course attend the lectures associated with the course, and may under certain conditions participate in other course activities if the Course Co-ordinator gives specific permission. An auditing student does not complete assessment items or examinations, is not awarded a grade and is not entitled to an academic transcript.

15.3.2 The relevant Head of School may permit a person to audit a course for a prescribed fee, provided that a place is available and provided that the attendance of the person does not interfere with the learning activities of the course and poses no appreciable risk.

15.3.3 An auditing student who wishes to undertake assessment and/or participate in the full range of learning activities must apply to transfer to visiting student status.

16. Responsibilities

16.1 Selection criteria, entry levels and quota size

16.1.1 Academic Board has authority to set admission standards, selection criteria and entry levels to award courses offered by the University (including any special program and course requirements in individual cases).

16.1.2 The Deputy Vice-Chancellor has authority to approve the specific selection schedules and special entry pathways to be used for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses coordinated by QTAC.

16.1.3 The Deputy Vice-Chancellor in consultation with the Dean of each Faculty approves the admission quotas to undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

16.2 Language requirements

16.2.1 Academic Board has authority to determine and approve language requirements for admission to award courses offered by the University. It also has authority to determine accepted language tests for applicants, and equivalent English language proficiency for applicants from a language background other than English (refer to Appendix 1).

16.3 Offers of admission

16.3.1 For the purpose of this delegation “admission” includes students’ initial admission to the University, readmission after an absence, and admission to a different program via program transfer.

16.3.2 The Director Student Administration (or nominee) has authority to make offers of admission to coursework programs offered by the University.

16.3.3 The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality) (or nominee) has authority to make offers of admission to international students applying for coursework programs.

16.3.4 The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (or nominee) has authority to make offers of ‘special admission’ and/or provisional admission.

16.4 Readmissions

16.4.1 The Dean of the relevant Faculty has authority to determine cases involving a former student seeking readmission to the same program following a period of exclusion.

16.4.2 The University Council has authority to determine cases involving a former student seeking readmission following expulsion.

16.4.3 The Director Student Administration (or nominee) has authority to determine all other cases of readmission.

16.5 Program transfers

16.5.1 The Director, Student Administration has authority to approve undergraduate program transfers.

16.6 Deferral of commencement

16.6.1 The Deputy Vice-Chancellor has authority to determine the programs offering deferment and the length of the deferment available up to a maximum of 24 months.

16.7 Withdrawal of offer and cancellation of enrolment

16.7.1 The Director, Student Administration (or nominee) has authority to withdraw an offer of admission or cancel enrolment where the applicant provides untrue or incomplete information which results in

(a) an advantage to the applicant and/or inequitable treatment of other applicants or

( b) an incorrect assessment of the applicant’s claims against the admissions criteria.

16.7.2 The relevant Appeals Committee has authority to determine the final outcome of an appeal against withdrawal of offer and cancellation of enrolment.

Appendix 1: English Language Proficiency Requirements

English proficiency requirements

The following English Language Proficiency Requirements apply to:

(a) all applicants for an international student place for whom English is not their first language

(b) other applicants whose first language is not English and who have not previously undertaken at least one full time year of secondary or tertiary study where the language of instruction was English

(c) applicants seeking admission on the basis of a qualification undertaken in a language other than English and whose first language is not English

Accepted tests of English language proficiency

Acceptable tests of English Language Proficiency include but are not limited to:

International English Language Testing Service (IELTS)
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Currency of test results

Test results must have been obtained within the two years prior to the commencement of the University program.

Required test results

IELTS requirements

Students presenting IELTS results must have undertaken the academic test modules. The minimum overall score for entry to most University undergraduate programs is 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each of the academic test modules of reading, writing, listening and speaking. The minimum overall score for entry to most University postgraduate programs is 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the academic test modules of reading, writing, listening and speaking. IELTS requirements can be set at a higher level for individual programs.

Other tests

The minimum scores for entry to most University undergraduate programs for students who have undertaken TOEFL are:

TOEFL (paper-based test) - an overall score of at least 550 with a Test of Written English (TWE) score of at least 4.0
TOEFL (internet-based test) - an overall score of at least 79 with a minimum writing score of at least 19
The minimum scores for entry to most University postgraduate programs for students who have undertaken TOEFL are:
- TOEFL (paper-based test) - an overall score of at least 575 with a Test of Written English (TWE) score of at least 4.0
- TOEFL (internet-based test) - an overall score of at least 88 with a minimum writing score of at least 21 and a minimum score in all sections of 20.

TOEFL requirements can be set at a higher level for individual programs.

The minimum scores for students who have taken other acceptable tests must be equivalent to the minimum scores for IELTS.

English as the language of instruction

Applicants for an international student place and other applicants whose first language is not English will not be required to take an English Language Proficiency test if they can provide evidence that they have undertaken a degree or other post-secondary program of a minimum of one year full-time duration in which English was the sole language of instruction and the program was undertaken within two years prior to the commencement of the University program.

Waiver of English proficiency requirements

English proficiency requirements may be waived in certain circumstances. A request for a waiver of the English Language Proficiency requirements may be made by the relevant Program Leader. The request must be made in writing and must include the justification for the waiver. The request is considered by the PVC International and Quality in liaison with the relevant Dean.

A Program Leader considering a waiver must take into consideration the Commonwealth Government requirements relating to English Language Proficiency testing for the issue of student visas. In order to be approved, the request must comply with the relevant Migration Regulation and the ESOS National Code.

When a waiver includes a requirement for English language improvement or support, the relevant Faculty is responsible for costs associated with the improvement or support.

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