How to navigate VTAC CourseSearch

VTAC (Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre) CourseSearch is what you use to choose and rank your preferred courses and start defining your university journey. Which is great — but first you need to know how to use it! 

That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll help you navigate VTAC CourseSearch, and understand how to apply and set the right course preferences for you. 

Ready to dive in?

What is VTAC CourseSearch & what does it do?

The VTAC CourseSearch tool helps you find courses offered by universities across Victoria. It gives students all the course details they need, including entry requirements and breakdowns.  

Importantly, it’s what you’ll use to preference your chosen courses. VTAC will then use that information to match you with the best course for you.  

Want to know more about that process? Check out our article: ‘How VTAC Preferences Work: A Comprehensive Guide’. 

How to use VTAC CourseSearch

We’re taking this slow with comprehensive step-by-step guides for every stage of the process. First, how do you access VTAC CourseSearch? In three easy steps: 

1. Visit the VTAC website: 

2. Use the search bar: 

  • Type in the course you’re after, or the field the course might be in. For instance, ‘Nursing’ will return all related nursing courses. 

3. Apply filters: 

  • If that hasn’t quite got you there, you can narrow down search results by using filters like course type, campus, and entry requirements. 

How to apply for VU courses via VTAC

Applying for courses through VTAC involves a few straightforward steps: 

1. Create a VTAC account: 

  • Register on the VTAC website to get started. 

2. Enter personal and academic details: 

  • Fill in your personal information and academic history accurately. 

3. Select and add courses: 

  • Use VTAC CourseSearch to find your desired courses and add them to your application. 

4. Submit your application: 

  • Review your application thoroughly before submission. 

 

Important dates & deadlines

The preference period has a deadline, so take note of the important dates below: 

  • Timely applications close: 30 September 
  • VCE results release: 7am, Thursday 12 December
  • Change of Preference period: from results release date above to 12pm, Saturday 14 December (VCE December offer domestic round).

If you miss these deadlines you might miss out on starting uni on the date you wanted. Also, as some courses only accept a certain number of entrants, applying late can mean that your preferred course might already be filled up! As with all things, it’s best to make a start as soon as you can, but remember that it’s not too late to change preferences once you have your results.