Australian Defence Force Pathways
Use your military experience to further your education journey.
Move smoothly from the military to uni
We are proud to support our past and current Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and their families as they transition from military service to academic and professional success.
We recognise the unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that members of our military bring to our community. We are committed to providing the guidance and support you need to make the most of your studies.
Why go to uni?
Entry options
Current and past-serving Australian Military members are provided a selection rank equivalent based on their service. With this, you can apply for direct entry into a range of our programs.
If you have completed Australian armed services general training and have at least one years' service, you will be provided a selection rank equivalency. If you have attained a higher level of rank within the ADF, you will gain a higher selection rank equivalency.
You can view our range of degrees to find out their required selection ranks.
Army
| Rank or Training | Experience | Selection Rank Equivalency |
|---|---|---|
| E02-E05 Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal | 1-2 years | 73 |
| E02-E05 Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal | 3+ years | 75 |
| E06 and above Sergeant and above | 1-2 years | 83 |
| E06 and above Sergeant and above | 3+ years | 92 |
Navy
| Rank or Training | Experience | Selection Rank Equivalency |
|---|---|---|
| E02-E05 Seaman, Able Seaman, Leading Seaman | 1-2 years | 73 |
| E02-E05 Seaman, Able Seaman, Leading Seaman | 3+ years | 75 |
| E06 and above Petty Officer and above | 1-2 years | 83 |
| E06 and above Petty Officer and above | 3+ years | 92 |
Air Force
| Rank or Training | Experience | Selection Rank Equivalency |
|---|---|---|
| E02-E05 Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Corporal | 1-2 years | 73 |
| E02-E05 Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Corporal | 3+ years | 75 |
| E06 and above Sergeant and above | 1-2 years | 83 |
| E06 and above Sergeant and above | 3+ years | 92 |
Even if you don’t qualify for your desired degree, or if you’re not sure you’re ready to jump into a degree, there are still many options available.
Open Foundation and Yapug are free pathway options to university. These programs help you to upskill and prepare for further University learning. Upon completion, these programs provide you with competitive entry into all degrees, and give you access to our Guaranteed Entry Scheme, making it easier to secure your spot in a degree of your choice.
If you’re worried about transitioning to academic study and want to brush up on your skills, NUprep short courses can help you shift gears into academic study.
Apply directly
Choose a degree that excites and motivates you, where you will gain the knowledge, industry connections and real-world experience needed to create the career you want. You can view our range of degrees or chat with our team for some guidance and support.
Download the step-by-step checklist
We'll help guide you on your path to uni
Support options
As a current or past serving ADF member, you’ll have access to a range of support services, including academic support, guidance and networking, and wellbeing services.
We’re committed to helping you succeed in every area of your university experience.
Military Student Support Program
Register with us to gain access to tailored services and opportunities made specifically for current and past-serving ADF members.
Contact us
Recognise your experience
We are actively working to improve Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) pathways for ADF members past and present. This means your military training, skills, and experience may count toward your university qualification.
Contact us
Get connected
Connect with other students who have been where you are. With over 100 clubs and societies at the University of Newcastle, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded peers.
Learn more
Support services
View our support services including academic support and wellbeing services. We’re committed to helping you succeed in every area of your university experience.
View services
Family First
We’re proud to support partners and family members of our student veterans. We can help with your family’s support needs.
Contact us
Explore your options
Not sure on your options? Attend one of our upcoming events to meet staff and students, explore your options, and get a feel for university life.
View events
Student highlights
Discover stories and experiences from some of our past students who transitioned from the military to university.
Berkdeniz Cavusoglu
Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine
Arriving in Australia as a refugee, Cav soon developed a passion for helping others seeing him join the Australian Army at 18, and now our Joint Medical Program.
Read more
Travis Hall
Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics
After leaving high school in Year 10, Travis joined the Australian Army where he served in PNG while also completing Open Foundation online.
Read more
Looking for more information?
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