Rural and Remote Admissions Scheme
The Rural and Remote Admissions Scheme aims to increase the number of students from rural and remote locations being admitted into our program. Our target is to see 30% of students in the program from rural and remote locations (18 at the University of New England and 33 at the University of Newcastle).
If you're successful in gaining entry through this scheme, there will be a greater expectation for you to complete clinical placements within a rural area.
If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident and you can prove you have resided for at least five years consecutively or ten years cumulatively in a rural and/or remote location, you may be eligible to apply.
If you're considering applying for a position under RRAS, please carefully read and ensure you understand the information provided in the RRAS information document and the Joint Medical Program Prospectus. These documents contain important information regarding your requirements and responsibilities under RRAS.
To be eligible for the RRAS, you must:
- lodge all three applications outlined in the Joint Medical Program application process, choosing the rural option when you complete the JMP direct application
- satisfy the minimum academic requirement for admission to the Joint Medical Program
- satisfy the personal assessment qualities (UCAT ANZ, MSA and PQA) as outlined in the JMP selection process
- provide a statement from a rural community leader verifying that you have resided in a rural or remote location for at least five years consecutively or ten years cumulatively
- be an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident; New Zealand citizens are ineligible
Applicants who meet all the eligibility criteria for the RRAS will be invited to interview if they meet a lower UCAT threshold score (compared to non-rural applicants).
NB. This lower UCAT score is determined following the UCAT results of all applicants being made available to the JMP.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.