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 arranging your preferences during the timely window, want details on how VTAC works, 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.

What are Timely applications?

Timely is your first chance to apply for 2025 intake through VTAC.

By applying for courses during this early window, you can organise your VTAC preferences earlier and pay a lower application fee. Timely applications open Monday 29 July and close Monday 30 September.

Ready to preference Swinburne? Head over to VTAC now before Timely applications close.

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.

Other tools

  • 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.

    Plan my pathway (Pathway Planner)

  • 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.

    Book a spot (Campus tours)

  • Year 11 & 12 Hub

    Preparing to make the exciting leap from school to university? Consider this your hub for everything you need to know – from exam prep to helpful resources on preferencing Swinburne.

    Visit the Year 11 & 12 Hub (Year 11 & 12 Hub)

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