Parents
Where to start?
CSU understands navigating the higher education maze can be daunting and confusing, however we hope this website will assist you support your child during the decision-making and application processes. You will find tips, resources, and information that will help you to better understand the university environment.
If you would like to be kept up-to-date with news from CSU, register here for our 'Little Bird' feed.
Step 1: Listen
Start the conversation to find out what your child is curious and passionate about. Some young people know what they want to do from an early age. Most however, don't - and this is okay. Starting the conversation is about opening the thinking process and suggesting options. What is your child interested in? What hobbies do they have? What are their strengths at school? All these things can help to focus on career choices.
CSU's Choose Your Career is a fun and engaging brochure, assisting Year 10 and Year 11 students with subject choices. It's a good "where to start" guide accessible to both yourself and your child.
Step 2: Research
The CSU website is an easy and immediate tool for accessing information. Spend time familiarising yourself with the site early in the year. Some important parts of the site to visit are:
Visit the University; access programs such as MYDAYs and the open day every day program, take a virtual tour, or talk to University staff.
Attend the parent information sessions at your child's school. They are really worthwhile and informative.
If your child is interested in a particular career area, help them arrange to talk to people working in that field.
Encourage your child to participate in work experience.
Encourage your child to meet with their school's Careers Advisor regularly.
Talk to one of CSU's Prospective Student Advisors by calling 1800 334 733
Keep a list of important dates: Such as UAC/ VTAC opening and closing dates, PREP opening and closing dates, scholarship closing dates, etc.
Step 3: What do I need to know?
You and your child need to have a clear understanding of what's available. For example what scholarships are on offer? What information do you need to have to apply? How does an early entry scheme work and how do we apply? Does the course your child chooses have any special requirements? Do they need to audition or attend an interview?
You will find links to the various web pages holding this information and, if you can't find the answers, talk to one of our friendly advisors on
1800 334 733 (free call in Australia).
Why CSU
CSU is an innovative and progressive, award-winning university, with an international, national and regional reputation for excellence and a consistently high graduate employment rate (over 85% in 2012).
More about Why CSUOur campus locations
Our main campuses are located in Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie and Wagga Wagga, and we offer several courses from other locations including Goulburn, Canberra, Parramatta and Wangaratta.
More about Our campus locationsGetting into Uni
CSU offers a number of options to help students access university including Regional Bonus Points, an early entry program, special consideration and the Darrambal skills assessment program.
More about Getting into UniPreparing your child for university
This section gives you some tips on how to help prepare your child for university study.
More about Preparing your child for universityStudy tips
10 tips for helping your child prepare for their final high school exams.
More about Study tipsPathways
There are numerous pathways available for students who do not achieve the ATAR they want. On completing the Diploma of General Studies, your child will be eligible for entry into most CSU courses. Students may also consider TAFE pathways.
More about PathwaysScholarships and help with costs
CSU has various scholarships available for a range of reasons and student groups. We recommend you and your child access scholarship information early (August), as scholarships tend to open and close at differing times.
More about Scholarships and help with costsFees and costs
‘What will it cost me?’ is a typical question, and it’s a good idea to investigate how much it does cost to attend university. This will help your family and your child budget for the future.
More about Fees and costsAccommodation
CSU provides a great range of accommodation options. Although your child will not be able to apply for on campus accommodation until after their letter of acceptance has been received by the University, it’s a good idea to jump on the website and have a look at the accommodation page.
More about AccommodationStudent support
Your child can access a range of support services that will provide them with all the help they need to excel at their studies and enjoy the university experience.
More about Student supportOverseas study opportunities
Once students are in their 2nd year of study, they can start their international experience via CSU Global. Your child may study at an overseas educational institution or complete study tours, internships or practicum overseas. Grants are available.
More about Overseas study opportunitiesResources & publications
CSU produces a variety of publications designed to assist students in making an informed decision when considering study at CSU.
More about Resources & publications'Little Bird' Feed for Parents
Subscribe to get timely and relevant information about Charles Sturt University.
More about 'Little Bird' Feed for ParentsEnquiry information
Request course information
Call us on 1800 334 733, (International +61 2 6338 6077)
- Speak to a future student advisor
- Free call
'Little Bird' updates
Subscribe to get timely and relevant information about Charles Sturt University
Campus tours
Our open day every day program, means that you can take a campus tour at a time convenient to you!
Want to see our campuses from the comfort of home?
NSW HSC Online
Get help with exams with online study resources. Also access further information for parents and information for beyond the HSC.
Undergraduate guide for study
This comprehensive study guide is designed for all students planning to study an undergraduate degree, whether they are school leavers completing Year 12 and applying through UAC / VTAC, or mature age students.
Prospective Student Inquiries
Australian campus business hours are Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm, Australian Eastern Time (GMT +10).
info.csu can provide support and guidance to prospective students on everything you need to know on the University, courses, fees, accommodation, etc.
within Australia 1800 334 733
International + 61 2 6338 6077 Fax (02) 6338 6001