School Leavers
Portfolio entry
Portfolio entry provides an alternative entry method which does not rely on the traditional TER score.
It involves assessment of applicants based on a portfolio of evidence showing an ability to succeed in higher education
This pathway caters for:
- School leavers who undertake TEE, WACE Courses and/or ECU approved CAF (Wholly School Assessed) subjects
- Non School Leavers who are over 20 years of age in the year they commence studies, who wish to enter university studies after several years away from formal education.
The Portfolio Pathway fulfils minimum admission requirements into our undergraduate courses.
What is a Portfolio?
A Portfolio Pathway application is a collection of documents which are submitted along with a completed Application for Admission.
We take the marks you receive at school into consideration - using them to calculate the points that make you eligible for this pathway.
A Portfolio is made up of the following documents:
Introductory letter
It should an explanation of why you want to attend university, the reasons and motivation behind the course you have chosen and your future career goals.
It is important you demonstrate your understanding of what is required of university level study, e.g. time commitment, recognition of deadlines, etc.
Your letter should reflect your commitment, preparation to study and motivation to be successful.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
Your CV/Resume should outline all your experience to date.
Education / Training
- Secondary schooling.
- Any school programs for skill enhancement such as leadership programs, sports coaching, umpiring accreditation, etc.
- Formal qualifications from TAFE or any registered training organisation (RTO).
- Industry training or accreditation.
- In-house workplace training - you will need to provide a letter on company letterhead to confirm details of training completed.
Work experience
- Paid positions
- Voluntary positions, e.g.: student council, Royal Life Saving, St Johns Ambulance and sports coaching.
Referees
You need to include a minimum of two written references. At least one of these referees should be a professional / work / school reference.
Other
You will need to provide copies of certificates, awards, academic records, references and any other documents you feel will support your application.
How are Portfolios assessed?
Step one
Your application will be assessed as to whether it meets the points required for admission and how well it demonstrates your:
- Capacity for self-directed study
- Interpersonal & communication skills
- Achievement & experience
- Potential to succeed at tertiary level study
Step two
Applicants who are successful in Step One will be invited to attend an interview, from which final selection will be made.
You will need bring the originals of all the supporting documentation submitted with application.
Entry requirements
For admission by Portfolio entry, school leavers must meet English competency requirements and have studied a minimum of four subjects which may be any combination of:
- TEE, or
- WACE Courses, or
- ECU Approved Wholly School Assessed (WSA)/ Commonly Assessed Framework (CAF) Subjects
Applicants must accumulate a total of at least 13 points from these subjects, based on the following:
| TEE subjects | |
|---|---|
| Final scaled mark ≥ 70 or Final school grade of A |
7 points |
| Final scaled mark ≥ 60 but < 70 or Final school grade of B |
6 points |
| Final scaled mark ≥ 50 but < 60 or Final school grade of C |
5 points |
| WACE courses | |
| Final scaled mark ≥ 70 | 7 points |
| Final scaled mark ≥ 60 but < 70 | 6 points |
| Final scaled mark ≥ 50 but < 60 | 5 points |
| Final unit grade of A | 3.5 points |
| Final unit grade of B | 3 points |
| Final unit grade of C (from units 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B completed in Year 12) |
2.5 points |
| ECU approved CAF/WSA subjects | |
| Final school grade of A | 5 points |
| Final school grade of B | 3 points |
| Final school grade of C | 1 point |