As resolved by Academic Senate, from 2016, Session 1 and Session 2 census dates (for all programs on a three-session cycle at Macquarie University) will be 26 March and 26 August (respectively) each year. This is a shift from the long-standing dates of 31 March and 31 August, respectively.

This change is compliant with the legislation that dictates that a census date must be no earlier than 20 per cent of the way through a study period in which the unit of study is undertaken, and the University feels that students will still have a adequate amount of time to:

• reflect on and, if possible, receive feedback on, their progress within a unit or series of units
• make an informed choice about whether or not to withdraw from that unit/those units.

Students will be informed of the change through iLearn, student notices and social media from this Thursday 1 October. Extensive communications will also take place at the beginning of 2016 to ensure all students are aware of the changes and how it affects them.

Please note that the census dates for Session 3 will not be affected by this change

If you have any questions or concerns around this change, please email census.inquiries@mq.edu.au