Deakin University

Study at Deakin University: Pathway from Sri Lanka

Deakin University, one of Australia’s top universities, offers a variety of pathway programs for Sri Lankan students who aspire to pursue higher education in Australia. These pathways provide a flexible and cost-effective route for students to begin their studies in Sri Lanka and complete their degree at Deakin University in Australia. Deakin's affiliates in Sri Lanka, such as APIIT, ACBT, and NSBM, make this process accessible by offering diploma and foundation programs that are directly linked to Deakin's undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

This guide will walk you through the available pathways from Sri Lanka to Deakin University, the benefits of these programs, and the steps you need to take to begin your academic journey.

1. Pathway Programs Overview

Deakin University offers a variety of pathways that allow students to transfer credits earned in Sri Lanka to complete their degrees in Australia. These pathways typically start with diploma or foundation programs at Deakin’s affiliated institutions in Sri Lanka, which are recognized as equivalent to the first or second year of an undergraduate degree at Deakin.

Diploma to Degree Pathway

• Offered By: ACBT, APIIT
• Courses: Business, Information Technology, Engineering
• Overview: Students begin by enrolling in a diploma program in Sri Lanka that is aligned with Deakin’s curriculum. Upon completion, students are eligible to transfer to Deakin University in Australia to complete their bachelor's degree.
• Duration: 1 year in Sri Lanka (Diploma) + 2 years at Deakin (Bachelor’s Degree)
• Benefits: This pathway saves time and money by allowing students to complete part of their degree in Sri Lanka at a lower cost before transferring to Deakin.

Foundation Year to Degree Pathway

• Offered By: ACBT
• Courses: Business, Information Technology
• Overview: The foundation year is designed for students who need additional academic preparation before entering university-level studies. Upon completing the foundation program, students can transfer to Deakin University to begin their undergraduate degree.
• Duration: 1 year foundation program + 3 years at Deakin for the full bachelor’s degree.
• Benefits: This is an excellent option for students who may not meet the direct entry requirements for an undergraduate program but still wish to pursue a degree at Deakin.

Advanced Standing Programs

• Offered By: APIIT, NSBM
• Courses: Business, Information Technology, Engineering, Law
• Overview: Students who are already pursuing a diploma or higher-level course in Sri Lanka may be eligible for advanced standing (credit transfer) when applying to Deakin University. This allows students to enter directly into the second or third year of a Deakin degree program based on the credits they have earned.
• Benefits: Reduces the time required to complete the degree and allows students to enter Deakin with advanced status.

2. Benefits of Pathways from Sri Lanka to Deakin University

1. Cost Savings: By completing part of their degree in Sri Lanka, students can significantly reduce the overall cost of their education. Tuition fees in Sri Lanka are lower compared to Australian fees, making these pathways an affordable way to achieve a Deakin University degree.
2. Seamless Transition: Deakin’s affiliated institutions in Sri Lanka are closely aligned with Deakin’s academic standards and curriculum, ensuring a smooth transition when students transfer to Australia.
3. International Exposure: Pathway programs allow students to experience studying in both Sri Lanka and Australia, giving them the opportunity to adapt to international academic environments and cultures.
4. Flexible Entry Requirements: For students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for Deakin University, the foundation year and diploma programs offer alternative routes to gain admission into the university.
5. Globally Recognized Qualifications: Graduating from Deakin University provides students with a qualification that is recognized and respected globally, opening doors to international career opportunities.
6. Access to Deakin Resources: Students enrolled in Deakin pathway programs in Sri Lanka have access to Deakin’s digital resources, libraries, and academic support systems, ensuring a world-class education experience from the start.

3. Affiliated Institutions in Sri Lanka

Several institutions in Sri Lanka offer Deakin pathway programs, providing students with local access to international education. These institutions are well-established and offer excellent facilities and academic support.

Asia Pacific Institute of Information Technology (APIIT)

• Location: Colombo
• Programs: Business, Law, Computing
• Pathways: APIIT offers diploma and advanced standing programs that allow students to transfer to Deakin for the completion of their degrees.

Australian College of Business and Technology (ACBT)

• Location: Colombo, Kandy, Galle
• Programs: Business, IT
• Pathways: ACBT’s diploma and foundation programs are recognized by Deakin University, offering students a seamless transfer into Deakin’s undergraduate programs.

NSBM Green University

• Location: Homagama
• Programs: Engineering, IT, Business
• Pathways: NSBM offers advanced standing opportunities, allowing students to transfer to Deakin with credits already earned in Sri Lanka.

4. Steps to Follow for a Successful Pathway to Deakin University

1. Research Your Options: Explore the pathway programs offered by APIIT, ACBT, and NSBM, and decide which one aligns with your academic and career goals.
2. Meet Entry Requirements: Ensure that you meet the entry requirements for the diploma or foundation program. This may include specific academic qualifications and English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
3. Apply to the Affiliate Institution: Submit your application to the chosen institution in Sri Lanka that offers Deakin pathway programs. Be sure to include all required documents, including academic transcripts and test scores.
4. Complete the Program: Successfully complete the diploma, foundation year, or advanced standing program at the affiliated institution in Sri Lanka.
5. Apply for Transfer to Deakin: Once you’ve completed the required coursework in Sri Lanka, apply for a transfer to Deakin University in Australia. You’ll need to submit your academic records and demonstrate that you meet Deakin’s requirements for transfer.
6. Transition to Australia: After your transfer is accepted, prepare for your studies in Australia, including arranging your student visa, accommodation, and travel plans.

Conclusion

Deakin University’s pathway programs from Sri Lanka offer students a unique opportunity to pursue a globally recognized degree with flexibility and cost-efficiency. By starting their education locally through affiliated institutions like APIIT, ACBT, and NSBM, students can enjoy a smooth transition into Deakin University and complete their degree in Australia. These pathways provide an ideal solution for Sri Lankan students looking for an affordable and prestigious international education.