Elite athletes and performers - Southern Cross University

Welcome to the Elite Athlete & Performer Program (EAPP)

The value of combining both sport, creative industries, and higher education to achieve greater life success is well recognised at Southern Cross University.

At Southern Cross University, elite athletes and performers may require additional support to maintain their sporting excellence and our Elite Athlete and Performer Program has been designed to support and encourage students in managing both areas of their life to ensure that they can achieve their goals.

Support for Elite Athletes and Performers

Academic support options for Elite Athletes & Performers include:

Flexible and responsive approach to admissions and enrolment
Deferring assignments/exams
Making alternate arrangements for sitting exams
Flexibility in course structure & progression
Flexibility in Work Integrated Learning Placement dates
Study on-campus or via distance education

As a member of the Elite Athlete and Performer (EAP) program, you may seek to negotiate your study schedule, including timetables and assessments, with your unit assessor-in-charge (and/or course coordinator).

If you are already registered with the EAP program, use the form below to request Letters of Support for academic flexibility.

EAP program support request form

Elite Athletes and Performers (EAP) can apply for financial assistance to support eligible sporting or performance-related activities, including travel, registrations, uniforms, and other competition or performance expenses.

Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with funding allocated based on the details provided and available program resources. Supporting documentation, including evidence of selection or participation and associated expenses, is required as part of the application process.

If you are already registered with the EAP program, use the form below to request financial assistance.

Use this Elite Athlete & Performer Expense Form if you are seeking reimbursement for approved grant requests

EAP program financial support request form

Elite Athlete: an Elite Athlete is defined as someone who has been identified as elite by one of the following organisations:

Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) State and Territory institutes or academies of sport (e.g. NSWIS)
AFL Players’ Association
Australian Cricketers’ Association
Rugby Union Players’ Association
Rugby League Professionals’ Association
Australian Professional Footballers Association
Australian Basketballers Association
National senior squad members from Sport Australia funded sports

If an athlete falls outside of these organisations they may submit an application for consideration by the University.

Elite Performer: An Elite Performer is defined as someone who participates in significant state, national or international performances, productions, installations, competitions or events such as those affiliated with, but not limited to:

Orchestra
Opera
Music
Dance
Theatre
Film
Television

If a performer falls outside of these organisations they may submit an application for consideration by the University.

How to apply for the EAPP

Current SCU Students

Before starting the EAP Application, students should have the following ready:

Student Email (must be used to apply)
Student Number
Letter of Support from your club, coach or recognised institution
Two High Resolution (preferred) photos: head shot and performance picture
Relevant URL link/s (if possible)
Official social media handles/accounts (if applicable)

The application will take roughly 10-15mins. The EAPP panel reviews applications at the end of each Term.

Current students apply here

Prospective SCU students

Before starting the EOI, students should you have the following ready:

Tertiary Application Number e.g. QTAC, UAC, (if applicable)
Referee or coaches contact details.
Relevant URL link/s to performance results or achievements (if possible)
Official social media handles/accounts (if applicable)

The EOI will take roughly 5-10mins. The EAPP panel reviews expressions of interest and provides prospective students with advice on eligibility and/or pre-approval.

Prospective students apply here

Got a question?

If you would like more information on the Elite Athlete & Performer Program, feel free to contact the team using the details below.

If you are not registered with any of the mentioned organisations but represent a sport at the national or international level, please get in touch with the team to discuss your options.

Phone: 1800 72 4357

Email: unilife@scu.edu.au

email UniLife