Non-Discriminatory Admissions Policy

The University of Newcastle’s Admissions Manual ‑ Coursework and Enabling Programs contains a publicly posted admissions policy which is non‑discriminatory, and which explains the logic for its positive discrimination (adjustment) schemes. As of 2024:

  • The University requires that its admission processes comply with the Anti‑Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW).
  • It ensures equitable access to entry pathways for all applicants.
  • The Manual includes defined adjustment factors and admission schemes (e.g. for Year 12, Subject Spotlight, Guaranteed Entry, etc.), which are approved by the University and recognised publicly via appendices.
  • The policy provides transparent eligibility and requirement clauses, and allows for relaxation of provisions under exceptional circumstances, ensuring fairness.

The University of Newcastle has a clearly defined, publicly available admissions policy that forbids discrimination, and includes mechanisms for positive discrimination (adjustments and schemes) with transparent justification. This policy has its origin in 2016. The current version was effective from the 7th of June 2024 and was reviewed in 2025.

We also have a variety of pathways into University that ensure everyone has equal opportunity to study in higher education.

113 countries ? represented in our student body
1st in sector ? for number of Aboriginal and Torres Islander students
1st in NSW ? for social equity
5-star ? maximum rating for social equity

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion 3:04

Learn about how we teach and research, how we work with industry partners and local communities, and how we engage with our staff and students.

Every path welcome, every student celebrated

We are committed to widening participation, promoting diversity and fairness, overcoming injustice and increased success for all. This commitment is fundamental to how we teach and research, how we work with industry partners and local communities, and how we engage with our staff and students.