We welcome future Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to ACU, and we acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we live and work.
If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, we want you to be able to choose what you study, as well as how and where you study it. We understand the importance of community, and we respect your family and cultural obligations. We want to make study work for you.
See the tailored study options, entry pathways, scholarships and student services available to you.
Find your direction in times of change
We are committed to enhancing and enriching the university experience for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students – one that supports your community life and equips you with all you need to lead, inspire and succeed.
If you identify as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you could be eligible for access to tailored courses, scholarships, student services and facilities from ACU, the First Peoples Directorate, as well as Equity and Inclusion.
Start your journey by reading more about the options available to you.
Study options and entry pathways
We have a range of flexible undergraduate study options and entry pathways that can support your individual needs. If you already hold an undergraduate degree, you can take your education a step further with postgraduate study.
Away From Base
Live, work and study in your own community. Available for a select number of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, ACU’s Away From Base program combines online learning, residential blocks, face-to-face learning and tutorial support.
Browse our Away From Base courses
Admission pathways
If your Aboriginality can be verified by an Indigenous Australian organisation, you can apply for alternate entry to ACU undergraduate courses through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander admission program.
No separate application is needed, but you will need to attend an interview with the relevant faculty and our Indigenous Higher Education Unit.
Learn more about this Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pathway
Study a postgraduate program
Build on your past success with a postgraduate course at ACU. Study a subject you are passionate about, enter a specialist profession, change your career, or develop your skills and insights to lead and inspire others.
View postgraduate study options
Scholarships
We offer a range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research scholarships, as well as those offered by external providers. Many scholarships are open to Indigenous applicants only, and you could be eligible for more than you think.
Take the time to explore what scholarships are available, and find out if you are eligible by visiting our scholarships browser.
Search available ACU scholarships
Research scholarships
If you are interested in studying a higher degree by research, such as a masters by research or doctorate, you may be eligible for a research scholarship.
Read more about research scholarships
External scholarships
As well as our ACU and government-funded scholarships, you may also be eligible for scholarships from external providers such as the Aurora Foundation’s Aspiration Initiative.
Find out more on the Aurora Foundation website
You can also see if you’re eligible for other external scholarships at the Good Universities Guide.
Browse scholarships on the Good Universities Guide website
Student services
We’re committed to supporting you for your entire education journey and beyond, and offer a number of service for your academic and personal health and wellbeing.
Explore our range of student services
Indigenous Higher Education Units
At our Indigenous Higher Education Units (IHEU), our staff are ready to offer you academic, personal and cultural support.
These on-campus hubs also provide you with a welcoming, culturally safe space to study and meet in an environment that promotes positive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity.
Learn more about our on-campus UnitsContact us
If you would like to discuss your options, please get in touch with our staff at an Indigenous Higher Education Unit in your state or territory.
You can contact us by email or phone. We look forward to chatting.