Admissions Policy

1. The purpose of our policy

This policy sets out the principles under which Adelaide University admits students to its programs.

It establishes the governance-level responsibilities for ensuring that student selection processes are equitable, transparent, inclusive and aligned with legislative and policy requirements.

2. Who our policy applies to

2.1 Inclusions

This policy applies to all domestic and international applicants seeking admission to:

• enabling programs
• undergraduate programs
• postgraduate programs
• graduate research programs.

2.2 Exclusions

This policy does not apply to individuals participating in educational activities that are not part of, or do not lead to, an enabling program or a qualification recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework.

3. Our admissions principles

3.1 We ensure admission requirements comply with relevant legislation and policy

Our admission standards align with relevant laws, regulatory frameworks and internal academic governance processes, including oversight of cohort performance and reporting obligations.

3.2 We define and publish clear admission requirements for every program

These requirements support progression pathways from enabling programs to undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees.

3.3 We are committed to equity in access and participation

Admission requirements must:

• support a diverse and inclusive student community
• minimise barriers for prospective students
• enable the participation of under-represented and disadvantaged groups.

3.4 We apply fair, transparent and consistent selection processes

Selection rules are publicly available. Offers are made with integrity by authorised staff with the relevant training and experience.

3.5 We select applicants based on merit

We recognise a broad range of achievement, including academic performance, Aboriginal Knowledges, skills, experience and other relevant capabilities.

3.6 We admit students who are equipped and ready to succeed

All applicants must meet the prescribed admission criteria, including English language proficiency.

3.7 We may refuse or revoke admission

We reserve the right to refuse or revoke admission if an applicant poses a risk to students, staff or others.

3.8 We use student outcomes and feedback to inform admission practices

We regularly review admission requirements and processes using data, feedback, external referencing and academic quality indicators.

4. Definitions used in our policy

Please refer to our Adelaide University glossary for a full list of our definitions.

Enabling program means a program that develops student skills and knowledge necessary for successful participation in university study.

Graduate research program means a program at doctoral or master level which comprises two-thirds or more of its assessable content by research.

Postgraduate program means an academic program of study that leads to the conferral of a graduate certificate, graduate diploma, masters degree or doctoral degree.

Prospective student means a person who has contacted Adelaide University, or an agent representing Adelaide University, with the intent of becoming a student.

Student means a person enrolled in an enabling program, award or non-award coursework study, a research program, or a short course or microcredential at Adelaide University.

Undergraduate program means an academic program of study leading to a qualification such as an undergraduate certificate, diploma, associate degree or bachelor degree. This includes an honours degree where applicable.

5. How our policy is governed

This policy is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

6. Legislation and other documents related to our policy

Refer to the Delegation Policy for all delegations at Adelaide University.

7. History of changes

At the time of writing, Adelaide University’s organisational structure, position titles, and committee names have not been confirmed. Square brackets [ ] indicate placeholders for these details. Brackets are also used to identify policy elements that are subject to further decision-making or confirmation. These will be updated once final decisions are made.