Research Center: Open Door Initiative, Flinders University
Location: This is a 100% online study in Australia
Lead Researchers: Professors Deborah West and Ben Wadham
IRB: The project has been approved by Flinders University’s Human Research Ethics Committee. Approval Number: 8457

What comes after service can be uncertain, but it shouldn’t be unfair. For many Veterans, stepping into higher education means navigating unclear systems that don’t always recognize the value of military experience.

Flinders University, Australia wants to change that by hearing directly from Veterans who’ve applied to or enrolled in a university in the past five years. This study examines the effectiveness of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit in supporting Veterans across Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK. The goal is simple: build a clearer, fairer pathway to education that truly reflects what Veterans bring to the table.

If you’ve taken that step, your story matters. Take the survey and help make it better for those who come next.

For more details about the study, read through the Participant Information Sheet here!

• Participants will be contributing to research that could lead to clearer, fairer university pathways for Veterans in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK.
• Participants will help identify what’s working, and what’s not, when it comes to recognising military experience in higher education.
• Findings from this study may help universities better understand and value the skills gained during military service.
• Participants may gain insights into Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit options that could support their own educational journey.
• By sharing their experience, participants will play a role in shaping future policies that improve access to higher education for fellow Veterans, not only in Australia, but also in New Zealand, Canada, and the UK.

• You will receive a detailed outline of all details of the study, risks, and procedures, and you will be given the chance to ask study staff questions before you decide whether to participate.
• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time, by simply exiting the survey.
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by the law.

Eligible:

• Men and women who are Australian, New Zealand, Canadian, and British Veterans who have separated from their country’s defence force
• Must have any of the following:
  • Applied to a university or equivalent program in the past five years but did not enroll, or
  • Currently enrolled in a university program or its equivalent, or
  • Enrolled in a university or equivalent program within the past five years
• Must be able and willing to complete a short online survey. The survey asks questions about your experiences applying for recognition of prior learning and credit for university-based study programs.

Open Door is a globally recognised organisation committed to enhancing the well-being of current and former military personnel, public safety personnel, and their families. Using a holistic approach that integrates physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Open Door addresses key challenges such as transitioning to civilian life, veteran suicide, and family support. Its work focuses on improving social, mental, and physical health, shaping policy and service provision, and fostering systemic and cultural change.
Driven by evidence-based research, Open Door collaborates with governments, non-profits, researchers, and individuals with lived experience to design and deliver impactful programs. Its multidisciplinary team, drawing from fields such as sociology, psychology, and health sciences, ensures innovative and co-designed solutions. Open Door welcomes partnerships to create meaningful change for service personnel and their families.