Experience Based Entry

Your work and life experience count when it comes to entry at SAE.
We will consider all of your qualifications, studies, employment and professional experience when you apply to study with us.
The first (and best) thing to do is to talk to our course advisors. You may be pleasantly surprised that they do! Even if they fall short, we will suggest what else you will need to do to get into your preferred course.
Our Experience-Based Entry Scheme allows you to be considered for entry to any course through an assessment of your ability to succeed in higher education.

SAE will review applications on a case-by-case basis if you:

  • Are at least 18 years of age;
  • Do not have the formal qualifications required for direct entry;
  • Seek admission to courses on the basis of your aptitude for higher learning and skills development through professional, work, life experience and non-accredited study.

To apply via the Experience-Based Entry pathway, students are required to undertake an interview with SAE and provide supporting evidence that may include:

  • records of any formal educational qualifications attained,
  • evidence of any informal studies undertaken,
  • references relating to work history relevant to the chosen field of study (if applicable),
  • a resume or Curriculum Vitae,
  • a Cover Letter, and/or
  • a portfolio/examples of relevant materials that may demonstrate qualities like creative aptitude, knowledge, technical skills and abilities, or experience in a particular field.

In addition, candidates may also be asked to undertake an exam or written assignment to demonstrate their capacity to meet the course requirements.

In all cases, Experience-Based Entry into an SAE course will only be granted to students with a minimum of the Australian Grade/Year 10 level of schooling. Click here to check for equivalencies.

SAE recognises industry experience and previous studies from accredited institutions. Click here to find out more about our Recognition of Prior Learning.

For more information on SAE's Experience Based Entry process, please refer to the Student Selection, Admission and Transfer Policy.