University guide for parents

Griffith University offers essential tools and tips to help guide year 12 parents on the path of success

Graduating year 12 students can ease the stress of deciding on a career path with easy access to several helpful resources.

A recent Gallup survey found Gen Z felt happier and more motivated at school and work when they understood their purpose for being there.

Griffith University future students and strategic communications vice president Phillip Stork said he knows that for Gen Z in particular, finding something meaningful to them was really important.

“We aim to work with students to understand what they value and what drives them so that we can support them with the right course selections and experiences that will prepare them for their future career,” he said.

Uniqua Sermon is a first year Bachelor of Pharmacy Griffith University student at the Gold Coast campus.

First year Griffith University Bachelor of Pharmacy student Uniqua Sermon said early preparation was key in deciding what to do after graduation.

“In year 12, I did lots of research into universities, weighing the options of studying interstate or in Brisbane,” she said.

“I attended open days from year 10 onwards, which really helped me get a feel for different campuses and what they offered.

“My advice to year 12 students would be to take things one step at a time and not be too hard on yourselves.

“The pressure can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that it’s okay not to have everything figured out.”

Mr Stork said study and careers expos and university open days kicked off around May and, for parents, talking with their teen about their interests and what was important for them in a university could help to get the most out of the events.

The Gold Coast campus at Griffith University.

Going in with questions could also be helpful, especially if your teen doesn’t know what they want to do, he said.

By speaking to lecturers and students at these events, graduating year 12 students can have a better idea of what they want to study.

“It’s important to remember that no matter what your teen chooses to study, it’s never too late for them to reconsider and QTAC applications can be changed,” Mr Stork said.

“Even after your teen enrols, changing degrees – particularly within the same institution – is still relatively straightforward.

“If your teen is considering a gap year, it’s still helpful to consider university options now and find out the best way to do it.

“In most cases, it’s better to apply and then defer, but your teen should speak to support staff about their options.”

While Griffith University study advisers encourage high school students to think about their future, Mr Stork noted they didn’t want to pressure them into thinking they needed to have everything figured out.

Student life at Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus.

Griffith will hold a free webinar on Tuesday, April 29, between 7pm and 8pm for year 11 and 12 students, as well as their parents or guardians.

The webinar will cover everything students need to know to prepare for university life at Griffith, including how to apply, alternative pathways to university and scholarships.

“There’s plenty of time to make plans for uni and it’s normal to be unsure or change their mind about what they want to do,” Mr Stork said.

“Our Countdown to Uni webinar is a really helpful starting point for students and their parents who have questions about what they can be doing now to get ready for university.”

To attend the webinar, visit griffith.edu.au/countdown

KEY DATES IN 2025

Explore and shortlist

Creative Arts Open Day – May 18, Brisbane City (South Bank)

Brisbane Tertiary Studies & Careers Expo (TSXPO) – July 19 and 20, Brisbane Showgrounds

Griffith Open Day – August 10, Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast

Apply

QTAC applications open August 1

Griffith Early Offers open – August to October

Receive offer and accept

Griffith Early Offers made from September

QTAC main offers made Dec/Jan

Prepare for uni

Last day of year 12 – November 21

Results released – mid-December

Griffith Options event – mid-December

Orientation Week – February 23–27, 2026