Parents' guide to change of preferences
Explore our tools and helpful tips to help your teen navigate their study options at La Trobe.
It’s time to get real about your teen going to uni
It may not always feel like it, but you’re a huge influence in your teen’s life during this stressful time, from helping them understand their options to supporting decisions about their future.
At La Trobe, we know they’re more than their ATAR. We’re here to provide tools and guidance so your teen can make confident, informed choices when adjusting their VTAC course preferences.
Key points to keep in mind:
- Prioritise preferences - students will receive an offer for their highest eligible course, so the order of their preferences matters.
- Check entry requirements - make sure your teen meets prerequisites and selection criteria for each course.
- Explore pathways - encourage your teen to explore alternative pathways to their dream course in case they need it.
- Watch deadlines - the change of preference period opens after each offer round - check VTAC Key Dates to stay on track.
Helpful tools
Browse our collection of ATAR tools and calculators to help your teen explore their course options at La Trobe.
Pathways and support
Explore our pathway options and helpful advice to guide your teen through navigating their study options and supporting them during the course preferences period.
Support hub
We're here to support parents and students during the course preferences period. Discover how you can get in touch.
Have questions?
Get in touch with a study advisor to learn more about your teen’s study options at La Trobe.
Book a one-on-one
Book a private consult with a student advisor. Our team is working extended hours during the change of preference period to support enquiries.
In person
Walk in consults with no appointment required are available on December 12 ,13 and 23. Only available for our Melbourne (Bundoora) campus.
Call us
Student advisors are working extended hours throughout December. Extended hours apply on select dates. Regular hours 9am – 5pm AEDT.
Live chat
We’re available Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm AEDT and have extended contact hours on select dates.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
PLEASE NOTE: Extended hours apply on select dates. La Trobe is closed on weekends and public holidays. The university is closed for support between 25 – 26 December 2024 and January 1st 2025.
Note for career practitioners: If you’re a career practitioner looking for support during the change of preference period, we recommend getting in touch with your relevant campus representative.