Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I am eligible?
Whether you are a current Year 12 school leaver or have left school some time ago, you are eligible to submit an application for admission to a non-award, continuing education certificate program at Griffith.
What does 'non-award' mean?
The term non-award, in relation to continuing education, is a generic term indicating that the program of study does not, of itself, automatically lead to the award of a degree.
Do I need a Rank/OP/UAI?
NO. There are no Rank/OP/UAI cut-offs. However, the same prerequisites apply to continuing education certificate studies as apply to the related Griffith degree program.
What is a prerequisite?
A prerequisite is the required level of knowledge (or the demonstrated ability) to acquire a certain level of knowledge (usually expressed as achievement in specific Year 11 and Year 12 subjects or equivalent) - e.g. English (4SA) or English 3 unit, Maths B (4SA) or Mathematics. The following are also noted within the prerequisite details for Griffith programs:
  • Recommended study: demonstrated study is not compulsory but it is strongly recommended.
  • Assumed knowledge: minimum level of achievement considered necessary for first year tertiary study.
Students lacking the recommended or assumed level of knowledge are not prevented from being made an offer. However, they may be disadvantaged unless they undertake recommended bridging, preparatory or introductory subjects prior to or during first year of study.
What prerequisites do I need?
Prerequisites are determined by the content of the related program studies. Prerequisites can be viewed via Griffith's Program and courses website.
How will my application be assessed?
The University uses a variety of assessment criteria. Each application is assessed on its own merit as recognition is given to prior education, and the knowledge and skills gained through work, sport, community service and life experiences. Each applicant is required to submit an updated resume and attach certified copies of all supporting documents. These include year Senior Year Exit Statements, results from any additional studies including TAFE, adult tertiary preparation, External Senior, trade certificates, short courses or professional development programs.
Applications for quota programs should also include certified copies of awards, achievements, blue card, first aid certificates and written references from present or past employers, if applicable.
The University reserves the right to withdraw an offer and cancel the enrolment of any person where an offer was made on the basis of incomplete or inaccurate information supplied by the applicant, or where the applicant is excluded from any tertiary institution or tertiary program of study.
What is a quota program?
Some certificates on offer are limited in student intake and assessed as 'quota' programs. The University reserves the right to place the highest achieving applicant in these quota programs. Therefore, it is to your advantage to provide all relevant information and supporting documentation, to support your ability and interest in your choice of study.
Do I need to pay an application fee?
YES. Each application for entry into a continuing education certificate program attracts a non-refundable application fee of $45.00 (GST inclusive). This fee must be submitted with your application. This application fee does not guarantee entry into any program.
Am I guaranteed entry into a continuing education certificate program?
NO. Submitting an application does not guarantee entry to any program. Assessors do deny applications. You may be advised to undertake an adult tertiary preparation program, a bridging course or another alternative form of study to assist you in preparing for tertiary studies.
Will my preferences be considered?
YES. The University will endeavour to place you in the nominated certificate of your choice should you meet the prerequisites. Where you are not eligible for your first preference, or where student numbers are limited, your second preference will be considered. You will receive an official letter confirming the outcome of your application. Successful applicants may accept or reject the placement offer.
Can I defer my offer or apply for leave of absence?
NO. There are no deferment options available to non-award students. You can either accept or reject the offer. Applicants wishing to reject an offer are required to write to Continuing Education Programs, Student Admissions requesting cancellation. Once an offer is rejected, applicants wishing to re-apply for admission into a certificate program at a later date are required to submit a new application. Students who have undertaken one semester of study, and are unable to complete the second semester of the program, are required to submit a Cancellation of Enrolment form to Continuing Education Programs, Student Admissions.
What courses do I study in my continuing education certificate program?
Certificate students must follow the advertised program structure of the certificate into which they have successfully gained entry. For full details on the program structure, course descriptions and outlines refer to the Griffith Programs and courses website.
The University regularly reviews its programs. Therefore, the advertised program structures are subject to change.
How long will a continuing education certificate program take to complete?
The majority of the certificate programs consists of four courses, or 40 credit points of part-time study, and are to be completed within 12 months. Students are required to undertake two courses (20CP) per semester in line with the program structure. Certificate programs are specifically designed for part-time study to allow students to work part-time and maintain family, social, or cultural commitments, as well as achieve their best academic performance.
What will I receive at the end of my studies?
An official Griffith continuing education certificate will be issued to all students who successfully complete the certificate program structure. Students who achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.75 will be awarded a boosted rank, equivalent to a special OP/UAI. The greater the academic achievement, the higher the boosted rank.
How does the University's 'Smart Strategy' work for me?
This strategy is a special Griffith schedule for students who have successfully completed a Griffith non-award continuing education certificate program.    
Do I get automatic entry into a related Griffith undergraduate degree?
NO. Automatic entry into a Griffith degree program does not apply. Upon successful completion, all non-award certificate students are required to submit a QTAC or UAC application to apply for entry into the related Griffith degree for the following intake. For information regarding the application procedure and important dates, refer to the QTAC or UAC websites.
Will I receive any credit transfer for completed courses?
YES. Once you have successfully gained entry into a related Griffith degree (via QTAC or UAC) you will receive an academic credit transfer for courses that have been successfully completed in the non-award continuing education certificate program.
What happens if I fail a course?
If you fail a course, you may repeat that course in the next semester of offer, however, you will be required to pay the full fee for the year of study for any repeat attempt of the course. The University reviews the tuition fees and charges for non-award studies each year, therefore, a higher fee may apply the next time you attempt the course. Repeating a failed course may affect your eligibility to be awarded a boosted rank.
How do I cancel my enrolment from a continuing education certificate program?
If you wish to cancel your enrolment from a continuing education certificate program, you must complete a Cancellation of Enrolment form and submit it to Continuing Education Programs, Student Admissions before the end of the fourth week of each semester.
Failure to submit a Cancellation of Enrolment form (within the University's important dates) will incur the financial penalty of 100% tuition fees and charges plus an academic penalty of a 'Fail' grade against each enrolled course.

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