Take the next step
Completing your application is an important first step on your university journey. With these tips, you can feel confident and excited about applying to Curtin.
Studying at an international university is an exciting adventure. Every journey begins the same way – with an application.
While university applications can feel daunting, they are often simpler than you may expect. And with some guidance, you can submit yours without a fuss.
In this article, you will find expert tips to help with your university application and answers to frequently asked questions.
If you are considering applying to Curtin University as an international student directly or through a Curtin-registered agent, this guide will help you feel confident when you press ‘submit’.
Ready to find an agent or apply direct? Visit our application information portal.
Five tips for your university application
These tips will help you ace your application, avoid common mistakes and stand out. They come directly from our university admissions team – the people who read, process and evaluate applications every day.
Along the way, we’ll also hear from Stevon, an international student at Curtin who shares insights into his application experience.
1. Organise your documents
An important part of applying to most universities is to provide your documents, such as qualifications, English language level, academic performance and any required forms.
If you’re applying through an agent, you will have their help preparing your documents and submitting your application.
If you’re applying direct, make sure you check all of your documents before you submit your application.
Being transparent and accurate means you will get the results of your application as fast as possible.
“I made sure to stay organised by keeping all my documents in one place and checking them carefully before submission.”
I made sure to stay organised by keeping all my documents in one place and checking them carefully before submission.
Stevon Amaratunga
Home country: Sri Lanka
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Construction Engineering)
2. Share your story
Universities love to see applications that feature potential students’ genuine commitment to the chosen field of study.
Highlighting your passion and experience is an easy way to ensure your application is memorable. You can include examples of your:
- projects
- portfolio
- previous studies
- work experience or professional licensure (with proof such as a CV, employment verification letter or certificate)
This helps admissions teams to understand you, your goals and the unique value you will bring to the university.
3. Review deadlines and start preparing early
When you are applying to a university, timing is everything.
If you’re applying directly, you must manage your entire application timeline.
Application deadlines and intake dates can change, so check them regularly on your course page.
Also, make sure you submit your application in advance – Credit for Recognised Learning (CRL) assessments, visa processing and document verification can take time. Early applications are critical if you are applying for a competitive entry course.
No matter which course you choose, staying organised and aware of key deadlines will help you complete your applications successfully and start studying sooner.
Stevon has some advice for students wanting to stay organised while preparing their application:
My advice to other students is to start early, double-check all requirements, and seek guidance from an agent or the university if you’re unsure about anything.
This makes the whole process much less stressful.
Stevon Amaratunga
Home country: Sri Lanka
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Construction Engineering)
4. Check your emails regularly
This tip is simple, but essential!
If anything changes or your application needs extra information, university admissions teams may need to contact you directly – most likely by email.
Set a reminder to check your inbox (and spam folder) regularly so you don’t miss out. It is an easy way to apply successfully and avoid delays.
5. Seek support
Remember, you are not alone in the application process.
If you are applying to Curtin, contact our friendly team or your agent for personalised advice. We’re here to make your application process as smooth as possible.
For Stevon, our support team, the Curtin website and his agent helped support his application:
I recommend seeking support from an agent or the university if needed, as proper guidance makes the process much smoother.
Curtin’s official website was also very helpful in providing clear and accurate information.
Stevon Amaratunga
Home country: Sri Lanka
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Construction Engineering)
Frequently asked questions
If you have questions about applying to university as an international student, we have the answers.
What do university admissions officers look for in a strong application?
According to our university admissions team, strong applicants will:
- submit documents that are complete, accurate and consistent
- provide evidence that they meet academic and English language requirements
- clearly align their previous studies with their chosen course.
They also highlight two things to avoid. If you want your application to shine, do not:
- create multiple accounts or applications
- switch agent mid-process.
When will I know the result of my application?
Processing times can vary by course, as well as by any CRL assessment and academic reviews.
Most applications are processed within one to seven business days, but some may take longer.
You can track your progress by:
- visiting the applicant portal
- checking your emails
- asking your agent.
How will Curtin support me during the application process?
Curtin offers lots of support throughout the application process.
If you apply via a Curtin-registered agent, they will assist you in collecting your documents, navigating your application and applying for a visa.
Our team can also offer all applicants guidance and support at every step of the way.
We can help you:
- understand study pathways
- find admissions and English language requirements
- organise deferrals
- switch courses or majors
- research scholarships.
Contact us anytime for friendly advice and assistance.
Phone call
Call +61 8 9266 3881 between 8.30am and 4.30pm AWST, Monday to Friday (from 9.30am on Tuesdays).
Agent
Contact your agent for personalised advice and updates. Don’t have an agent yet? Find a Curtin-registered agent.
What scholarships can I get as an international student?
Scholarships are a great way to get the support you need to succeed at university.
At Curtin, we offer a wide range of scholarships for international students to ease the financial commitment of studying abroad and enhance your student experience.
These are assessed on academic merit – such as your grades, course weighted average (CWA), Grade Point Average (GPA) or equivalent results – and eligibility criteria like your intake period, study load and course type, depending on the scholarship.
You don’t need a separate application for most scholarships – your eligibility is assessed automatically when you apply to Curtin.
Hoang describes the impact of Curtin scholarships on his university experience:
The Curtin Global Merit Scholarship significantly reduced my tuition fees, which has been incredibly helpful.
This scholarship grew my confidence, affirmed my capabilities and inspired me to strive for even greater achievements. It truly set a positive tone for my academic journey at Curtin.
Hoang Phan
Home country: Vietnam
Bachelor of Commerce (Logistics and Supply Chain Management)
Explore our international scholarships.
