If you are an ADF veteran and are seeking to reskill through university studies, we can help
At Griffith, we recognise and value your experience in the Australian Defence Force. We also understand the unique challenges that applicants from defence backgrounds face when considering their university study options.
For admission to Griffith undergraduate programs we award selection ranks for your armed services training and experience, as well as any other qualification you may have completed.
Applying to Griffith as a veteran
If you’re a current or former member of the ADF, Griffith offers clear application pathways for both postgraduate and undergraduate study.
Postgraduate study
If you’re eligible to apply for postgraduate study, you can apply directly to Griffith through the application link on Degree Finder for most postgraduate degrees.
There are a small number of exceptions:
Undergraduate study
The Veterans Direct application pathway is a free, direct application option for selected Griffith undergraduate degrees. It recognises your military service as the basis for admission, rather than relying on previous academic study alone. Check the drop‑down list below to see which degrees are eligible.
If your chosen undergraduate degree is not available through Veterans Direct, you’ll need to apply through QTAC. Please note that some undergraduate degrees:
- have earlier application dates
- require a higher selection rank
- include additional entry requirements, such as an audition, portfolio or interview.
For rank‑based Griffith undergraduate degrees, we’ll assess you using an equivalent selection rank based on your ADF service, where applicable.
Preparing your application
To avoid delays, make sure you have your supporting documents ready before submitting your application. We may contact you for additional information if it is needed to complete your assessment or confirm entry requirements.
Military Service Record
Provide your Military Service Record (PMKeyS Long) or your official Certificate of Service as evidence of your ADF service.
Additional qualifications
Upload any AQF certificates, diplomas or academic transcripts from previous university study so we can assess your selection rank.
Prerequisite documents
Include evidence that you meet any subject prerequisites, such as a senior statement or proof of completing a bridging course.
Apply now
Australian Defence Force personnel or veterans can apply directly for most undergraduate programs using the apply now button.
How will I know if I have received an offer?
If you receive an offer, you’ll receive a welcome email that provides a personalised link to your myGriffith account and information on your next steps to take to enrol.
We encourage you to enrol as soon as you can. For some degrees you may be required to enrol within a short timeframe, or your offer may lapse. Lapsed offers are not automatically reinstated and for some programs reinstatement may not be possible.
How your application will be assessed
Use your ADF service to meet degree entry requirements
If you have completed armed services general training and have at least 12 months of Australian Defence Force ( ADF ) service, Griffith will assess your service and award you an equivalent selection rank. This rank may make you eligible for a range of Griffith undergraduate degrees.
Your ADF rank and length of service determine your selection rank. Higher rank or longer service usually results in a higher selection rank.
| ADF Level^ | Army | Navy | Air Force | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| O-5 or above | Lieutenant-Colonel | Commander | Wing Commander | 88.00 |
| O-4 | Major | Lieutenant Commander | Squadron Leader | 87.00 |
| O-3 | Captain | Lieutenant | Flight Lieutenant | 86.00 |
| O-2 | Lieutenant | Sub-Lieutenant | Flying Officer | 85.00 |
| E06 to O-1 | Sergeant | Petty Officer | Sergeant | 84.00 |
| E02 to E05 | Two years service | Two years service | Two years service | 82.00 |
| E02 to E05 | 12–23 months service* | 12–23 months service* | 12–23 months service* | 78.00 |
* The 12–23 months service category includes Australian Armed Forces Ready Reserve Scheme (1992-1996).
Note:
- Equivalent ranks and classifications are determined by 1.3.40 equivalent ranks and classifications Division 5: Other matters (defence.gov.au)
- Gap-year service for recent high school graduates does not attract a standalone ranking.
- Australian Defence Force Gap Year and Defence Forces Reserves is not assessable on this schedule and as such applicants with this prior experience should apply for admission via QTAC/UAC.
Your Defence experience counts at Griffith
At Griffith, we know university success is about more than completing Year 12. Many mature students bring strong communication, critical thinking and resilience. These skills are common among current and former Australian Defence Force members and support success in higher education.
Your Defence training, experience and qualifications may count towards your degree.
You can search available credit through the Credit Precedent Database or contact credit@griffith.edu.au for personalised advice based on your service background. Credit applications are not limited to those listed in the database.
English requirements and subject prerequisites
For most Griffith undergraduate degrees, English is assumed knowledge. This means English is not assessed for admission. If you have not studied English at school or through equivalent study, we recommend completing a bridging course to build your skills and prepare for university study.
Some degrees have specific subject prerequisites that you must meet before admission. These include all law, education, paramedicine and occupational therapy (Honours) degrees.
To check your requirements, visit Degree Finder and review the prerequisites and assumed knowledge for your chosen degree. This will help you confirm whether you already meet the entry requirements or need to complete a bridging course.
Student Support
Griffith Veterans College
The Griffith University Veterans College connects you with study, research and industry opportunities so you can build the skills, experience and partnerships needed for your future career.
Scholarship opportunities
The Astute Electronics Veteran Student Scholarship supports eligible veterans starting undergraduate study, alongside other scholarships and financial support available at Griffith.
Learn more about the Astute scholarship Explore scholarships at Griffith
Learning resources
Griffith offers a wide range of learning tools and services, including study skills, assessment help, IT assistance, English language resources, work‑integrated learning and mentoring programs to help you succeed in your studies.
Health and wellbeing
Students can access medical care, counselling, wellbeing services, crisis assistance and resources for safety, harassment and violence prevention across the University.
Personal assistance
Griffith provides financial help, scholarships, equity and diversity programs, and other personal guidance services to ensure all students can participate fully in university life.