How are application preferences assessed for direct entry?

Assessment processes for direct entry differ depending on the courses you select.

Domestic non-competitive applications

If your first preference is a non-competitive course and you meet eligibility requirements, you'll receive one offer and lower preferences won't be assessed. If you're not eligible for a higher preference, you'll be considered for the next one. Any competitive courses in your application will still be assessed.

Domestic competitive applications

Offers for competitive courses are often withheld until specific offer rounds. If you have a non-competitive course as a lower preference, you may receive an interim offer. If you later become eligible for a higher competitive preference, you'll receive another offer and can choose which to accept.

Domestic Higher Degree by Research (HDR) applications

For Higher Degree by Research (HDR) courses where there are multiple applications submitted with preferences, only the first preference is assessed; all other applications will not be processed. 

International applications (Coursework and Higher Degree by Research)

Preferences are assessed in order - if you meet requirements for your first preference, lower preferences won't be assessed. If eligibility requirements are not met or places are not available, the next preference will then be considered.

If you wish to be assessed for lower preferences, please submit an online enquiry.