As resolved by Academic Senate last year, Session 1 and Session 2 census dates (for all programs on a three-session cycle at Macquarie University) will now be 26 March and 26 August (respectively) each year from 2016 onward. 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 an 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 were informed of the change through iLearn, student notices and social media last year and reminder communications will continue to ensure all students are aware of the dates 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.