School leavers across NSW and beyond are reminded that there is still time to apply for UNE’s Early Entry program before they sit their exams.
The Early Entry pathway has previously guaranteed thousands of students a place at university before their final results are released.
“UNE invests in the potential of students, not just their scores,” Bryn Griffiths, Director Future Students and Engagement said.
“Early Entry recognises that a student’s ability to succeed at university is about more than their ATAR. It’s a practical step to help smooth their entry into higher education. By applying now, students can sit their exams knowing they already have a guaranteed place at UNE.”
UNE Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Laws graduate Sarah Shipman benefited from the Early Entry program. She said that, for her, UNE Early Entry didn’t lower the bar – it cleared the runway.
“Applying for UNE Early Entry was a complete no-brainer, and one of the best decisions I ever made,” Sarah said.
“I knew I wanted to study Law and definitely felt the pressure of needing to achieve a high ATAR. UNE Early Entry took the pressure off and allowed me to completely focus on my HSC, knowing I had a clear path into university. That certainty allowed me to thrive, and I was able to excel in my final exams.”
“Studying at UNE was a dream come true. I received real support and career-ready learning. After completing my degree at UNE, I undertook Practical Legal Training and was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of NSW.”
“Looking back to Year 12, I’m so glad I took this amazing opportunity that kick-started my academic journey. I would recommend UNE Early Entry to anyone in a heartbeat.”
UNE was one of the first universities in Australia to introduce an early entry program, launching it in 1972 under the name School Recommendation Admissions Scheme. It recognised that students are more than their marks and relied on principals’ assessments of potential rather than ATAR scores. The approach proved just as effective in predicting success and has ensured many students access into higher education.
That philosophy continues today. UNE offers every student who applies a guaranteed offer, removing the uncertainty that surrounds the end of Year 12. Last year, more than 4000 students applied, and all were accepted.
The program is open to all Year 12 students and free to apply for.
Students can apply directly with the university and receive an offer before the release of their Year 12 results, giving them the certainty that no matter what happens, they have a place at UNE.
UNE is also helping students ease into university life with its Settle in for Free (SIFF) initiative.
Beginning in 2026, eligible first-year students will receive free accommodation during their first trimester in a UNE residential college, easing cost-of-living pressures and allowing students to focus on their studies.
No separate application is required. Students simply need to enrol in their UNE course from November 2025 and apply for college accommodation before 31 January 2026. Eligible students will be notified from November.
“Living costs are hitting hard, and regional communities are not an exception,” Mr Griffiths said.
“By providing students with free accommodation in their first trimester, we’re providing practical support at the time students need it most.”
More information, including eligibility and terms and conditions for the Settle in for Free program, is available at une.edu.au/settle-in-for-free.
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