Myth 1: you need a perfect academic record to apply to postgraduate

A common misconception is that only the students with spotless academic transcripts can be accepted into a postgraduate program at university. While academic performance does play a role when transferring from some undergraduate degrees to a higher degree, many postgraduate programs consider a much broader picture.

At ANU, admission into postgraduate study can take into account professional experience, prior learning, and even work and life experience through alternative entry schemes. This is especially true for graduate certificates and some coursework-based Master degrees, where practical knowledge is highly valued.

Myth 2: you need to know your career path before a postgraduate degree

Many students delay starting a postgraduate degree because they feel unsure about what comes after. The truth? You don’t need a perfect career plan to get started.

Postgraduate study can help you refine your direction. You’ll be exposed to new fields, work with teaching staff at the top of their disciplines and connect with peers who bring a range of experiences and ambitions. Some students go on to specialise further, and earn more, while others pivot entirely to a new passion.

At ANU, your postgrad experience can be as linear (or experimental) as you need it to be.

Myth 3: postgraduate study is all too expensive

There’s no denying that postgraduate study is a financial investment, but it may be more accessible than you think.

Many postgraduate students are eligible for Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs), FEE-HELP loans, or scholarships depending on the program. ANU also offers a range of financial support options and study structures, so you can work part-time or take a lighter study load when needed.

Long-term, a postgraduate qualification can also grow your career trajectory, improving employability, leadership potential and earning capacity over time.

Myth 4: only academics thrive doing postgraduate study

This one’s a classic. While postgraduate research degrees do lead many people into academia, coursework Master programs or professional graduate certificates can open doors into a wide range of industries.

Postgraduate study helps you sharpen skills that employers want, such as critical thinking, communication, data literacy, project design and more. And our capital city location at ANU lends opportunities that link your degree with real-world impact, from internships to national policy and political work.

Myth 5: postgraduate study means constant class and long days on campus

This is one of the most common postgraduate myths, that going back to study means giving up your job, committing to full-time hours, as well as study after hours, and being on campus five days a week.

But the reality? Most postgraduate degrees at ANU are built with your lifestyle in mind. You can study full-time if that suits your lifestyle, but many students choose to study part-time while working, parenting or juggling other commitments. We also have multiple childcare facilities available on campus.

You might have fewer weekly contact hours than in an undergraduate program, with a strong focus on independent learning and self-paced progress. That means you’ll have the space to shape your week around work, family or personal goals.

Whether you're pursuing a graduate certificate or exploring ANU postgraduate research, the structure is there to support you.

Bosi’s postgraduate study experience at ANU