RMIT University’s College of Vocational Education (CVE) offers a wide range of practical, industry-focused courses such as certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, and associate degrees. These programs are designed to equip students with hands-on skills and provide pathways to further university study. If you’re considering applying, understanding the entry requirements is essential to ensure you meet the criteria for your chosen course.
Academic Entry Requirements
RMIT admits students based on their demonstrated capacity to succeed, considering diverse educational backgrounds. The academic prerequisites vary depending on the level and type of vocational program:
- For recent secondary school graduates: Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is generally required. Students who have completed the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) Senior level are eligible for entry into Certificate IV, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma courses.
- For applicants with prior vocational education and training (VET): Completion of an accredited Certificate IV or higher qualification can be considered for advanced entry. RMIT assesses previous VET study to determine eligibility and may assign a selection rank based on the highest qualification level completed.
- For those with higher education experience: Applicants who have completed at least six months of study at any Australian university, including Open Universities Australia, may be eligible for admission. Previous higher education study results are used to assess suitability.
- For mature-age or non-traditional applicants: Work and life experience can be considered if formal qualifications are lacking. Some programs may require applicants to sit for the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) if they do not meet standard academic entry requirements.
English Language Proficiency
International students and applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through recognized tests. The minimum English language requirements for vocational courses at RMIT are:
- IELTS overall score of 5.5 with no band less than 5.0
- TOEFL paper-based score of 530+ (TWE 3.5+)
- TOEFL iBT overall score of 71 with a minimum of 17 in each section
Some programs may require higher English scores depending on the course content and complexity.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 16 years old by the program commencement date to be eligible for vocational education courses at RMIT.
Application Pathways and Credit Transfer
RMIT offers flexible pathways allowing students to start with vocational qualifications and progress to bachelor degrees. Some vocational programs provide credit towards university degrees, potentially reducing the time and cost needed to complete higher education.
Selection Process
Admission is competitive for some courses, with selection based on academic results, relevant work experience, and other criteria such as portfolios or interviews where applicable. RMIT also considers equity factors through schemes like the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Summary
RMIT College of Vocational Education welcomes applicants with diverse educational and life experiences. Whether you’re a recent school leaver, a mature-age learner, or an international student, meeting the academic, English language, and age requirements is key to a successful application. With flexible pathways and strong industry links, RMIT CVE offers practical training that can lead to rewarding careers or further university study.