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Frequently Asked Questions

Education

Are there any opportunities to further my study?

Yes. The Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS) exists to encourage Service personnel to undertake educational and training courses, which enhance their professional capability. Approval may be given for courses of study at Australian public education or vocational training institutions including public universities, institutes of technology, colleges of advanced education and secondary schools. Financial assistance includes compulsory tuition fees, other compulsory fees levied by the institution, and Student Contribution Charges. DASS Sponsorship varies but can provide reimbursement of up to 75% of fees to a maximum of $4000.

Can I do my Years 11 or 12 in the military?

Yes, the Navy, Army and Air Force promote the educational advancement of all personnel regardless of avenue of entry. Defence has a number of educational assistance schemes that provide sponsorship (at varying rates) for academic and personal development courses.

Do I need to complete a UAC form if I have applied for ADFA?

Yes, students will need to submit an application to the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) in NSW, including ADFA as their first university preference.

Do students have an obligation to join ADFA if they win the ADFA education award?

No. The ADFA Education Award is un-bonded, which means there is no obligation to accept an offer to attend ADFA nor is there any obligation on the ADF to offer appointment to an award winner.

Do you have Sponsorships available at other Universities beside ADFA?

Yes. The ADF Sponsored Undergraduate program is open to university students who have completed their first year of their degree. Sponsorships are available across all three services and across a number of different disciplines.As part of the undergraduate program, students will receive up to $30,100 per annum while studying, and payments and contributions towards tuition fees, HECS fees, and full medical and dental cover, superannuation and accommodation. Upon completion of their degree, students commence Officer training at the respective Service Officer training establishments. They then go on to employment training and a guaranteed career in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

I cannot obtain my school results as my schooling was undertaken - in another country / they are in another language / at a school, which has since closed. What should I do?

Each State education department has the authority to issue an equivalency certificate for educational courses undertaken in overseas countries. This process and any associated costs are the responsibility of the applicant.

I’m still at school and want to know what the prerequisite subjects for entry into ADFA are? What do I need to study for my OP/UAI score?

You can find information on the required subjects and minimum results on the entry requirements page of the University of New South Wales website.

What courses do you offer?

If you have the appropriate level of Year 12 education, you can undertake part-time university studies at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) and not incur any Student Contribution Charges. Degrees on offer range from Bachelor of Arts, to Bachelor of Science, or Engineering. You may also undertake sponsored study at another university and be reimbursed up to 70% of the costs under the Defence Assisted Study Scheme. Other specialist schemes are also available which may cover 100% of the costs.

What happens if I only completed Year 9?

You may be eligible to apply for the Army, and a Defence Recruiter will be able to let you know what courses you will be able to do to reach the required standard for the Navy and Air Force.

What is the ADFA education award?

The ADFA Education Award is presented annually to Year 12 students in recognition of leadership potential, academic and sporting achievements exhibited during Year 11. Only students currently studying Year 11 can apply. You must submit your application by December 31. The awards are presented each year in term two. The local Defence Force Recruiting Centres contact schools with winning students to organise a presentation during the school assembly

What is the difference between ADFA and RMC Duntroon?

ADFA encompasses a campus of the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and is the ADF's university campus. Navy, Army and Air Force cadets gain their tertiary qualification here.

RMC Duntroon is the Army's Officer Training establishment. On completion of ADFA, or entry through other avenues such as Graduate, Undergraduate or Direct Entry, all Army Officers will undergo their Officer training here. The Navy's Officer Training establishment is HMAS Creswell in Jervis Bay and the Air Force's Officer Training establishment is the Officer Training School in Point Cook, Victoria.

What is the undergraduate sponsorship scheme?

The scheme sponsors university students who have completed their first year of their degree. Sponsorships are available across all three services and across a number of different disciplines. As part of the undergraduate program, students will receive up to $30,100 pa salary while studying, plus payments and contributions towards tuition fees, HECS fees, and full medical and dental cover, superannuation and accommodation. Upon completion of their degree, students commence Officer training at the respective Service Officer training establishments. They then go on to employment training and a guaranteed career in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

What other options are available if I don’t have 2 Unit maths or the equivalent?

There is a wide range of positions available to students who have not completed 2 Unit Maths or the equivalent in both Officer and General Entry. Positions include Air Traffic Controllers, Infantry Officers, Electronics Technicians, Marine Technicians, Dental Assistant and Avionics Technicians to name a few.

What skills will I develop in the ADF that are useful in the civilian world?

Regardless of the role you choose to pursue in the Navy, Army or RAAF, the personal qualities and professional skills you gain will be invaluable when you decide to establish a career outside the ADF. In particular, leadership, management and teamwork skills are developed from the moment you begin your training. Other skills that you will enhance or develop include self discipline, time management and attention to detail.

Training and skills you acquire during your time in the ADF will be recognised Australia wide and you will be appropriately awarded the equivalent civilian qualifications.

The ADF has established the Defence Assistance Study Scheme (DASS), which encourages members to learn and grow within the service. DASS can help cover the costs of studying at an Australian public education or vocational training institution - this includes public universities, institutes of technology, colleges of advanced education and secondary schools. DASS can provide study expenses up to a maximum of $4,000 per course.

When do ADFA applications close?

Applications close once all of the positions are filled, some categories are filling quickly, therefore do not delay your application. Should you have any questions, please contact your local Defence Force Recruiting Centre.

When is the ADFA open day held?

The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Open Day is held each year in August in conjunction with all ACT Tertiary Institution open days. We encourage Year 11 students interested in ADFA to attend the open day as well as those students who have submitted an application.


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