If you’re a high school student preparing to start uni, you’ll know VTAC preferences are paramount when it comes to studying something you love.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about how preferences work, want details on how and when to change them, or would like to access expert support and advice – you’re in the right place.

On this page you’ll find:

What is Change of Preference?

Between August and February, there are various periods when you’ll be able to select and arrange your ultimate shortlist of dream uni courses – also known as your VTAC preferences. You might want to tweak your preferences because your results were better than expected, you’re considering alternative pathways to a degree, or just because you’ve changed your mind.

Check my VTAC preferences
  • Step 1: Submit your preferences

    Part of applying to uni as a Year 12 student involves submitting your preferred courses via VTAC in the order you want to get into them.

    You can then use the various windows throughout December, January and February to alter your list and maximise your chances of an offer.

  • Step 2: Your results are released

    Once your Year 12 results are released in December, it’s time to evaluate your options.

    Perhaps you did better than expected. You might be considering different pathways to your dream degree. Or maybe you’ve just had a change of heart. Here’s your first shot at adjusting your preferences in time for the first offer round.

  • Step 3: Contact Swinburne for expert and tailored advice

    During the Change of Preference period, you’ll can visit Swinburne’s Change of Preference Expo or book a 1:1 appointment for advice based on your results. This is your chance to explore every option available to you and even get help adjusting your preferences right then and there.

  • Step 4: And now we wait – for offers

    Now that your preferences line up with your uni goals, it’s time to enjoy a much-deserved holiday break as you wait for offers to roll in, beginning with the December offer round.

    Be sure to keep adjusting your preferences throughout the January and February offer rounds. Every Change of Preference window is an opportunity to maximise your chances of an offer.

Year 11 & 12 Hub

Discover more resources to help you find your perfect course and navigate Change of Preference with confidence.

Want to know how pathways work? Want the rundown on scholarships and supports available to Swinburne students, or how to book a campus tour?

Head to our Year 11 & 12 Hub, the home of everything you need to know as a high school student preparing to transition into uni.

Visit the Year 11 & 12 Hub

ATAR Calculator and other tools

  • ATAR Calculator

    Ready to find your perfect course? Our ATAR Calculator matches your predicted or actual ATAR with a list of Swinburne courses available in your study area of interest. 

  • Pathway Planner

    Don’t forget, many of our certificates and diplomas can be used as a pathway to bachelor degree study. If you have a destination course in mind, use our Pathway Planner tool to explore your pathway options.

  • Campus tours

    Book a tour of our leafy Hawthorn campus led by a Swinburne Student Ambassador to discover our study spaces and community hubs, and get a feel for life as a Swinburne student.

  • Find a course

    Search our degrees, diplomas and master programs, and find information about pathways to a degree. Explore a range of flexible study options to suit your needs and career goals. 

Want to chat about your options? 

Get the right advice on courses, VTAC preferences, offers and more to help you take the next step. Call us on 1300 794 628 (option 2) or book a one-on-one appointment.

Chat with a student adviser