study image
We’ve updated our T&Cs – read the student-friendly overview here.

Change of Preference

Lots of universities hold special events leading up to the first round of offers to guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have.

study image

Change of preference gives you flexibility when choosing your future

It’s completely normal to change your mind about your course preferences after you’ve submitted your initial application. Whether you’ve discovered a new passion, received career advice, or simply want to explore different options, changing your preferences can help ensure you’re on the right path for your future.

Let’s break down what change of preference is, when you can use it, and how to make the most of this opportunity.

What is change of preference?

Change of preference allows you to modify your course preferences after you’ve submitted your initial application through your state’s admissions centre (like UAC, VTAC, or QTAC). You can add new courses, remove ones you’re no longer interested in, or rearrange the order of your preferences – all before the main round of offers.

How does it work?

The process is straightforward:

  • Log into your applicant portal and open or edit your current application
  • Add, remove, or reorder your course preferences (you can usually list up to 5-8 preferences)
  • Pay the processing fee (if necessary)
  • Submit by the deadline (usually late December or early January)

Key things to remember

Here are some important things to remember about change of preference:

  • You can change your preferences as many times as you like during the change period.
  • Your latest submission before the deadline is what counts for the upcoming round of offers.
  • Changing your preferences won’t affect any early offers you’ve already received – so there’s no risk in exploring your options.

Want to learn more?

4 students stand smiling into the camera in a hallway, holding books.
Pathways

Low ATAR course options at Australian universities

April 5, 2026
Worried a low ATAR will close the door on university? There are hundreds of Australian courses you could be eligible for right now.
Low ATAR course options at Australian universities
Young man holding papers smiling at laptop screen.
University

Do you need to change your preferences?

November 10, 2025
Do you need to change your preferences? If you’re applying to study and want to know more, we’re here to help.
Do you need to change your preferences?
study image
University

University offers and your options explained

May 29, 2025
We’re here to guide you through the university offer process and what to do if things don’t go quite to plan.
University offers and your options explained

Upcoming information sessions

University of Tasmania

UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Cradle Coast

University of Tasmania, Cradle Coast Campus
Wed 16 Dec
, 2026
UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Cradle Coast
University of Tasmania

UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Hobart

University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay Campus
Thu 17 Dec

 –

 Fri 18 Dec
, 2026
UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Hobart
University of Queensland

UQ ATAR Advice Online Event for School Leavers

Online
Fri 18 Dec

,

 4:00 pm

 –

 7:00 pm
 AEST
, 2026
UQ ATAR Advice Online Event for School Leavers
University of Notre Dame Australia

Notre Dame Information Day for Future Students, Sydney

University of Notre Dame, Sydney Campus
Fri 18 Dec

,

 10:00 am

 –

 3:00 pm
 AEDT
, 2026
Notre Dame Information Day for Future Students, Sydney
University of Tasmania

UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Launceston

University of Tasmania, Inveresk Campus
Fri 18 Dec
, 2026
UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Launceston
University of Tasmania

UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Sydney

University of Tasmania, Rozelle Campus
Fri 18 Dec
, 2026
UTAS Enrolment Support Session for Future Students, Sydney

Location

CoP Location Filter

Get the guide

Curious about the reasons why you might change your preferences and when you need to do it by?

Find all this and more in our Change of Preference Guide.

Are you a careers advisor or educator? All of our guides are included as part of your Study Work Grow membership.

Want more to ponder?
Join our free newsletter crew – we don’t send spam, just news and opportunities to help you build your career.