Mature age students

Mature age students

What is a mature age student?

For undergraduate study, a mature age student is anyone who is 21 or older by the 1st of January in the year they’re applying. For vocational study (certificates and diplomas), it’s anyone who is over 18 and has been out of school for more than 12 months.

Age is generally used to determine eligibility for mature age entry under the equity schemes.

Mature age students follow the same application process as other applicants and still need to meet the minimum entry requirements to be considered.

Why study at RMIT?

Top 10 in Australia

RMIT is ranked in the top 10 universities in all of Australia and in the top 130 universities globally*.

Greater earning potential

People with qualifications have higher salary outcomes than those without qualifications^.

Flexible learning options

Many of RMIT's courses offer part-time and online options to accommodate work and life commitments.

Mature age student study options

Apprenticeships and traineeships

Apprenticeships and traineeships combine training and employment, normally over three to four years. Learn on the job and earn money while studying.

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Certificates

Start gaining practical knowledge in your field and pick up job-specific skills with these technical qualifications.

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Diplomas and advanced diplomas

Get the specialised knowledge you need to work in skilled or paraprofessional areas. These programs normally take one to two years of full-time study.

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Associate degrees

An associate degree is a 2 year course that provides a solid foundation in a specific field. This degree can lead directly to employment or be a stepping stone to further study.

Bachelor degrees

A bachelor degree is an undergraduate course that typically takes 3-4 years to complete. This degree is essential for many professional careers and is a prerequisite for postgraduate study.

Honours degree

An honours degree is an additional year of advanced coursework and research after a bachelor degree. It is ideal for careers in research, academia, or a prerequisite for postgraduate study.

Graduate certificates

A graduate certificate is 6-12 month focused course of study that is designed to help you gain specialised knowledge and skills in a particular area.

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Graduate diplomas

A graduate diploma is a 1 year course that offers more in-depth study than a graduate certificate but is shorter than a master's degree.

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Masters

A masters degree is a 1-2 year advanced postgraduate qualification that provides advanced specialist or professional training and can lead to professional accreditation.

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Research courses

A PhD is the highest academic qualification. It takes 3-4 years and involves conducting original research that adds new knowledge to your field.

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Fees

Domestic students

Tuition fees for domestic students are listed in the fees section of each program on the RMIT website. The Australian Government provides financial assistance for domestic students in the form of the HELP loans and VET Student Loans schemes. A Commonwealth assistance loan can help eligible students to pay tuition fees, the student services and amenities fee, or to meet overseas study travel expenses. 

 

International students

Tuition fees for international students are listed in the fees section of each program on the RMIT website. All fees are quoted in Australian dollars ($AUD) and apply to RMIT University’s Australian campuses only.

Four postgraduate students stand in front of Building 80 on the RMIT city campus

How to finance postgraduate study

From Commonwealth Supported Places to FEE-HELP loans, discover how RMIT can help you forget the fees and put the focus back on your career.

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How to return to study

Year 12 results

If you have completed VCE (or equivalent to Australian Year 12) in the last two years, you can use your ATAR to gain admission into your preferred course.

Prior study

If you have satisfactorily completed an accredited award at certificate IV or higher, you may be eligible for entry into your preferred course.

Professional experience

If you have relevant professional experience, you may be eligible for entry into your preferred course.

Recognition of prior learning

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) means that you may receive credit for prior study or skills and knowledge that you  gained during employment, professional development, short courses, on-the-job training, or life experience.

How to apply to study at RMIT

Local student applications

Follow our step-by-step how to apply guides, including everything you need to submit an application to RMIT. 

International student applications

If you’re an international student, follow this step-by-step guide on how to apply to RMIT. 

Check key dates before submitting your application to study with RMIT.

How to balance work, life and study
Discover how RMIT postgrad student Floyd manages his work-life balance and the tips he has for new postgraduate students.

More information about studying at RMIT

How to transfer to RMIT

If you are currently studying at a different university or institution, you can transfer to RMIT to complete your studies.

Pathways into RMIT

Pathways can help you achieve your study goals, even if you don’t meet the course requirements for your ideal course.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for both local and international students and can help with all kinds of study costs such as textbooks, fees, accommodation and living expenses.

Equity access

In some circumstances, mature age students may be eligible for special consideration for entry into a course.

Have more questions?

Our friendly staff at Study@RMIT are available five days a week to assist you.

*Source: QS World University Ranking 2025

^Source: www.abs.gov.au 2023

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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