We’re committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students academically, culturally and personally.
Supporting your success
Your journey is your own, but we want to join you. We are committed to working collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their communities.
Drawing on our dedication to social justice and community engagement, we aim to empower students to think critically and ethically, and to bring about change in their communities and professions.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Admission Process is designed to help recognise your potential to succeed at university. We are here to support you through the enrolment process and, once you have enrolled with us, we’ll continue to support you throughout your study journey with a range of scholarships, support services and study spaces.
About the admission process
When you apply for an undergraduate course at ACU – either through your state Tertiary Admission Centre (TAC) or directly with ACU, you can choose to identify as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. If you do, your application will be considered through ACU’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Admission process, which recognises a broad range of strengths and experiences alongside academic results.
You do not need to submit a separate application. A staff member from the First Peoples Directorate will contact you about the next steps and, where part of the course assessment process, arrange an interview.
We don’t assess applications based on ATAR alone. Our approach recognises academic preparation alongside your life, work, volunteer, cultural and community experience and how these experiences prepare you for university study.
The interview
Where required, the interview is a supportive, two way conversation designed to help you make an informed decision about your study and to ensure the course you’ve chosen is the right fit for you.
The interview takes place online and includes a relevant course representative and staff from the Indigenous Higher Education Unit, who are there to support you throughout the process.
During the interview, we will discuss:
- your study goals and expectations
- the course you are applying for and answer any questions
- your life, work, volunteer, educational and training experience
- what studying at ACU is like and the student support available, including academic and cultural support services
After the interview, we’ll explain the next steps and expected timeframes and remain available to support you through to an outcome.
In 2026, interviews are expected to be conducted during the main intake periods:
- 18 May – 5 June (2026 midyear intake)
- 21 September – 2 October (2027 Semester 1 intake)
Start your journey
Get started on your study journey now by having a look at the undergraduate courses we offer through our course browser. Find the right course for you
Most undergraduate course applications are submitted via a state Tertiary Admissions Centre (TAC).
- NSW and ACT Universities Admissions Centre (UAC)
- Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC)
- Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)
To find out if you preferred undergraduate courses accept direct applications or if you need to apply via TAC visit the relevant course page View our undergraduate course pages
Need help or advice?
For advice on applying, interviews, or Indigenous student support services at ACU, please contact your local Indigenous Higher Education Unit or submit a Register your interest form. Our teams are here to support you at every stage of your university journey.
Away from Base courses
We encourage our students to apply for the right course for your academic goals, whether that course is delivered on campus or online. If life or location interferes with your study goals, you may want to consider an Away from Base (AFB) course.
Our national AFB courses are an excellent option if you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are looking to improve your skills, change careers or follow your passions while still living at home or in your community.
Study online and attend intensive residential blocks twice a semester on campus. Accommodation and travel is included, with costs being paid by Australian Government funding. You can apply for any on-campus program, but AFB courses provide flexibility if you need it.
Learn more about Away From Base courses
Student services
We’re committed to supporting you for your entire education journey and beyond. ACU offers a number of services to foster your academic success, and nurture your personal health and wellbeing.
Learn more about student services
Indigenous Higher Education Units
Each of our campuses has a hub for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, known as Indigenous Higher Education Units (IHEU). At each IHEU, our staff are ready to offer you academic, personal and cultural support.
Free tutorial assistance (face to face, online or in a group), cultural activities, scholarships, networking and professional development opportunities are some of the services available to our students.
These 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.
Find out more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student services