Access La Trobe University

Special Entry and Access Scheme (SEAS)

The SEAS application process allows a small number of additional points to be added which will improve your ENTER score. The number of additional points is determined by the number and types of SEAS categories that match your circumstances. Each category has a form which must be completed, and applicants who are eligible to apply under more than one SEAS category should download and complete the form from each relevant SEAS category.

If you are applying for University as a mature age (over 21 years old) person, you should also complete any other SEAS categories that apply to your circumstances.

Select the Access Pathway below that best describes your circumstances:

• Mature Age
• Rural or Isolated Area
• Non-English speaking background
• Recognition as an Indigenous Australian
• Difficult family circumstances
• Disadvantaged socio-economic background
• Disability or Long term medical condition
• Refugee Status

Regional and Remote Area

If you need to relocate from a regional or remote area in order to study at university you may be eligible for a Commonwealth Relocation Scholarship, which provides $4,000 in your first year of study, and $1,000 each in year thereafter.  These amounts are indexed each year.  If you qualify for Youth Allowance or Austudy, you will automatically receive this scholarship from Centrelink. View our factsheet for Income Support for Rural Students (PDF 141KB).

The university accommodation services may help you to find somewhere to live while you study.

Students from a Non-English Speaking Background

La Trobe University welcomes students whose first language is not English, and the University recognises that you may require some additional assistance to gain entry and succeed in a University program.

If you have been in Australia for less than 10 years, and speak a language other than English in your home, you may be eligible to apply for a place at La Trobe University under the Special Entry and Access Scheme

Studying at a tertiary level requires good academic language skills. If you have not studied English as a subject at School, you should consider enrolling in the University's study unit entitled ESL1. You can take this as elective unit and get a credit for it as part of your course!

Or you may prefer to attend some of the programs provided by the Language and Academic Skills Units.

If you want to hear what other students who have recently arrived in Australia think about studying at La Trobe University, click here.

Students from a Disadvantaged Socio Economic Background

La Trobe University welcomes students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and the University recognises that you may need some financial assistance in order to succeed in your studies. There is a range of Scholarships available and we encourage you to apply.

You may also be eligible to apply for a place at La Trobe University under the Special Entry and Access Scheme

We also recognise that you may be the first in your family to attend University, and we encourage you to use the many free support services provided by the University. These support services will give you the best possible chance at succeeding in your studies.

If you are planning to rent accommodation once you commence university and you need help to pay the bond, you may be eligible for a Bond Loan from the Victorian Department of Housing.

If you are under 25 years old and dependent on your family, you can find out how much Youth Allowance you will receive from Centrelink by using the Student Income Estimator. 

If you are over 25 years old you can apply at Centrelink for Austudy.

Difficult Family Circumstances

La Trobe University recognises that some students have experienced unfortunate family circumstances during their high school years which have prevented them from reaching their potential in their VCE. The types of difficulties experienced may be such things as homelessness, long term illness of a family member, violence, abuse, carer responsibilities, or drug or alcohol addiction by a family member.

If you have experienced severe and long term difficulties you may be eligible to apply for a place at La Trobe University under the Special Entry and Access Scheme

If your difficulties have been more short term but have affected your Years 11/12 performance, then you can apply under a different entry pathway, called the SEAS Special Years 11/12 Consideration Special Yr 12 Consideration heading).

Once you have accepted a place at the University, make sure you also use our Student Support Services whenever you need to.

Students with a disability or long term medical condition

La Trobe University welcomes students who have a disability, and the University recognises that you may require some additional assistance to gain entry and succeed in a University program.

The Disability Liaison Officer can meet with you to see if you need any adjustments or special accommodations in your program of study. There is a comprehensive range of disability support services available to help you succeed in your chosen field of study.

If you do not gain the necessary ENTER score for your preferred university course, you can apply for a place at La Trobe University under the Special Entry and Access Scheme.

Refugee Status

If you arrived in Australia as a refugee or asylum seeker, and hold a permanent Humanitarian visa, a Permanent Residency visa, or Australian Citizenship, you can apply under this category. The University also provides a support program for students with a refugee/asylum seeker background.