HOW TO APPLY
Through our admissions process, we aim to understand how you think creatively, not just how you perform academically.
Your application is as much about who you are as it is about your creative ability. We’re interested in what inspires you, what excites you about design, and how studying at Whitehouse will support your future goals.
Whitehouse courses are structured to ensure students from a wide range of backgrounds can access design studies. Whether you are just beginning your creative journey or preparing for a career in the industry, we offer clear pathways to support your progress.
CURRENT YEAR 12 STUDENTS
If you're currently in Year 12, you can apply directly via our website. Once we receive your application, one of our Future Student Advisors will reach out to you.
Whitehouse's Early Entry Program for the main February intake is typically open from March in the year prior. You can apply for Early Entry by completing our main application form.
NON-YEAR 12 STUDENTS
If you're not in Year 12, you can apply directly via our website. Once we receive your application, one of our Future Student Advisors will reach out to you.
* University, college or TAFE transfers
* Return to study or career switchers
* Finished high school but did not complete Year 12
If you're transferring from another institution or have relevant industry work experience, you may be eligible for advanced standing in Whitehouse courses. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available. Speak to admissions for details on your specific situation.
ALTERNATE ENTRY PATHWAYS
The Undergraduate Certificate of Design and Diploma of Design are both direct pathways into the Associate Degree of Design and Bachelor of Design, with Advanced Standing awarded for units already completed. We may recommend this route if you're still building your portfolio, haven't completed Year 12, or would benefit from developing your foundational design skills before stepping into the full degree.
The Undergraduate Certificate requires neither a Motivational Statement nor Creative Portfolio - it's designed to be as accessible as possible. The Diploma requires a Motivational Statement but no Creative Portfolio.
VET CERTIFICATE III
VET applications must be made by completing the Enrolment Form based on your state - NSW, QLD or VIC. The forms can be found on the CUA30720 Certificate III in Design Fundamentals course page linked below.
The following applies for Whitehouse higher education courses.
STEP 1: APPLY VIA WHITEHOUSE WEBSITE
All applicants (excluding VET) will need to submit an application through the Whitehouse website. Once your application has been received, we will give you a call to discuss it, arrange a Design Meeting and campus tour.
Motivational Statement
Your application involves writing a Motivational Statement (excluding Undergraduate Certificate). This gives us an insight into your ambitions, skills and previous experience, as well as giving you a chance to show your passion for design. See further below for more detail on what to include.
STEP 2: CREATIVE PORTFOLIO
Your creative portfolio gives us a window into how you see the world and think through ideas in a relaxed and friendly environment. It doesn't need to be perfect - we're looking for creative potential, not a finished professional body of work. Submit 4–6 pieces of work that best represent your individual style and abilities. These can include:
* Physical garments or accessories
* Photography or videography
* Graphic design
Who needs to submit a Creative Portfolio?
* Diploma and Undergraduate Certificate applicants are not required to submit a Creative Portfolio
Students who have successfully completed Whitehouse's Certificate III in Design Fundamentals or Undergraduate Certificate of Design are exempt from submitting a Creative Portfolio.
STEP 3: DESIGN MEETING + CAMPUS TOUR
Your Design Meeting is a chance for us to get to know you - your creative journey, your ambitions, and what draws you to design. You'll also get a tour of the campus so you can see the studios, facilities, and spaces where you'll be learning - though depending on your campus, the tour may be scheduled separately to the meeting itself. It's a great opportunity to ask any questions you have about the course, fees, and structure, and we'll use this conversation to assess your eligibility and make sure Whitehouse is the right fit for you.
STEP 4: RECEIVE AN OFFER
Once you've attended your Design Meeting and sent through your documents, we'll be in touch with your outcome within 48 hours. The offer will be either a conditional or unconditional offer.
A conditional offer means your place is reserved pending any further requirement such as completing Year 12, exam results or certificates.
An unconditional offer means you have already met the entry requirements for the course.
STEP 5: ENROL
Once you accept your offer and complete your enrolment form, we'll be in touch to provide you with more information and an official Confirmation of Enrolment!
Your Motivational Statement is your chance to introduce yourself - not just as a prospective designer, but as a person. We want to understand what drives you, what excites you about design, and why Whitehouse feels like the right place for you.
Keep it to 300 words or less. To help get you started, here are some questions worth reflecting on:
* Who are you outside of design? What do you do in your spare time?
* In five words, how would you describe your personal style?
* What do you most want to learn or improve on throughout your studies?
The questions are there to prompt your thinking, not form a checklist. The best motivational statements are honest and specific. We're not looking for a formal essay; we're looking for you.
