APPLICATIONS have opened for La Trobe University's Aspire early admission program.
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The program gives Year 12 students who volunteer priority access to university study. This year La Trobe has partnered with the Country Fire Authority, St John's Ambulance and Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
The partnership means students who have volunteered with the CFA or St John's Ambulance for a minimum of six months will meet the community engagement requirement for entry to the university as part of the program. Duke of Edinburgh participants with a bronze medal or above will also qualify.
The program still takes into account a student's ATAR but the mark is specially reduced, La Trobe University acting head of Bendigo campus Jane Hamilton said.
"The ATAR is great but we want students to know that it is not the only way or at least shouldn't be the only way to get into a university course," she said.
"Yes, we still take it into account but it means students are also judged on other attributes and not solely their ATAR score."
Ms Hamilton said engaging in community and making a positive impact were virtues La Trobe University held in high regard and volunteering was a good way of showing this.
"Making a positive impact in society is a big thing for us. What's important to the community, is important to us. With young people coming through we want to recognise potential students for the great work they do in the community," she said.
The university made just over 1000 offers through Aspire last year. Of those offers, 47 per cent would not have received an offer if it was not for the program.
Indigo Crabbmor is studying a Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education at La Trobe University in Bendigo.
The 19-year-old, from Warrnambool, fell sick during her final year of secondary school last year. Not knowing what her final score would look like, Miss Crabbmor applied for the Aspire program.
Miss Crabbmor was a participant in the Duke of Edinburgh program.
Her community work included volunteering at a children's festival in Warrnambool, planting vegetation and teaching after school art classes.
Although Miss Crabbmor achieved the necessary score to get into her course, she said Aspire gave her peace of mind.
"Because I had been sick I was not sure what mark I would get. When I found out about the Aspire program I thought it was a good way to make sure I got into university," she said.
Miss Crabbmor said anyone who volunteered in the community and wanted to attend university should apply.
"Even if you feel like you have the tiniest chance, it's worth giving it a go," she said.
Applications for Aspire close on August 31. To apply, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/study/aspire