Census Date 101

At Census time, it’s essential to consider how you will manage your study load throughout the current trimester.

What is Census Date?

Census Date is when:

• Your enrolment in each unit is finalised.
• It’s the last date you can withdraw from a unit without incurring a financial penalty.
• It’s the final day you can apply for Commonwealth Support such as a HECS-HELP Loan.

Why is Census Date Important?

Census is the perfect time to assess how you’re managing your studies. Ask yourself:

What other commitments do I have that may affect my studies? Examples include:

• Part-time or full-time work
• Family responsibilities, such as childcare or eldercare
• Social obligations, like weddings or family gatherings
• Volunteering or community service
• Extracurricular activities, such as sports or clubs

Are there any significant events coming up that might affect my study time? Examples include:

• Exams or major assignments
• Birthdays or anniversaries
• Personal or family health issues
• Travel plans, such as vacations or business trips
• Significant life events, like moving house or getting married

Assessing these factors can help you determine if you need to adjust your study load before the Census Date.

Time Management Tips

As a general rule, you should allocate 12-15 hours per unit, per week. If you are unsure of the time load of a particular unit, view your unit guide or speak with your unit coordinator. To help you manage your time effectively, try this time management calculator. It also offers some great planners!

Consequences of Missing Census Date

Considering your study load now is crucial because:

• After Census Date, you’ll incur fees for each unit.
• Withdrawing from a unit or failing it after Census Date can impact your academic progression. This might risk your eligibility to continue your course.

Support and Resources

If you are struggling, it might be wise to reduce your study load.

It’s better to extend your degree timeline than to fail subjects and face financial or academic penalties.

Specific Support Options:

• Study Access Plan: If you are an athlete, have a disability or health condition, or are caring for someone with these issues, consider applying for a Study Access Plan through Student Accessibility and Wellbeing (SAWO).
• Counselling Services: UNE offers counselling through CAPS.
• Course Progression Issues: Contact Student Connect for assistance.

If you’re unsure of who to reach out to, our team of advocates can point you in the right direction.

Utilising Academic Support Tools

Make use of Special Exams, Assessment Appeals, and Special Consideration to avoid failing units or withdrawing after Census Date. Our team can assist you in applying for these.

We’re Here to Help

Advocacy & Welfare supports UNE students throughout their academic journey. You are never alone at UNE, so reach out for guidance and support whenever you need it.

• Advocacy & Welfare: Offers independent and confidential support to UNE students. Contact us here.
• Student Success: Provides confidential counselling. Find them here.
• Lifeline: A 24/7 hotline available at 13 11 14.

Don’t hesitate to seek help and make the most of the resources available to you. Managing your study load effectively can set you up for success this trimester and beyond.