Teaching Capabilities Statement FAQs

What is the Teaching Capabilities Statement? 

All students commencing an initial teacher education program in Australia are required to meet both academic (ATAR, STAT or GPA) and non-academic entry requirements. 

The Teaching Capabilities Statement is the non-academic entry requirement and is to be submitted as part of your application (See ‘How do I submit the statement?’ below). It is a 400-600 word submission that helps us understand your suitability to study and work in the teaching profession. It should cover the below dot points: 

• Explain what you think teaching involves
• Outline the personal and academic qualities you possess that will enable you to become an effective teacher
• Describe your attitude to learning and provide an example of something you have learned that was meaningful.

 When submitting the statement, you should: 

• Consider each dot point as important and address each one separately.
• Provide evidence where possible for a statement. For example, if you want to say that you have strong resilience and deal with challenges happily, then give examples of this, such as "my resilience is demonstrated by the fact that during year 12 I was sick for a month with glandular fever and…"
• Remember that evidence may be relevant to more than one dot point – it is acceptable to include the same examples in addressing more than one of the dot points
• Keep to the word limit of between 400-600 words.
• It is up to you how you write your statement. However, writing in the first person best supports your ability to share your personal perspective (for example, “I believe that teaching is…”). Avoid a reporting or resumé style so you can focus on presenting your personal qualities.

Why am I required to submit a Teaching Capabilities Statement? 

The Teaching Capabilities Statement is used to assess a teaching applicant’s suitability for study and work in the teaching profession.  

Submitting a Teaching Capabilities Statement complies with the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) national initial teaching education program standards. It helps us graduate the highest quality teachers, who possess the personal qualities and commitment, to make a positive impact on young people’s lives. 

What is the word limit? What happens if I exceed the word limit? 

The word limit is 600 words. If you exceed 600 words, only the first 600 words will be assessed. 

Is there an example of a written statement available? 

We want your response to be individual and unique to you. So, there isn’t an example on offer. 

Do I need to submit the statement if I am submitting a postgraduate application for a Master of Teaching program? 

Yes, non-academic entry requirements apply to all initial teacher education programs (undergraduate and postgraduate) in Australia.  

Can I re-submit another statement after I have uploaded one already? 

Unfortunately, you can only submit one statement. Re-submissions are not accepted.  

How do I submit the statement?

SATAC applicants (Domestic students and international Year 12 students): You must submit your Teaching Capabilities Statement as part of your SATAC application (as seen below).  We recommend you draft your statement in Microsoft Word prior to submitting your SATAC application. You will be required to copy and paste the statement into a text box in the online system. 

UniSA International applicants (all international students, except those completing SA Matriculation (SACE)):  Your Teaching Capabilities Statement must be uploaded with your application when you apply through UniSA's online International Applicant System.

UniSA Pathway & Internal applicants:  Attach your Teaching Capabilities Statement (as a word document) and email with the subject line: ‘Education Statement’, your UniSA ID and family name; send to: SAS-Magill@unisa.edu.au. 

UniSA College Students: Please upload your statement with your ‘Application to Change Program’ online form. Alternatively, please send to UniSACollegeTransitions@unisa.edu.au. 

Please note once you submit your statement you cannot make any changes or edits. Your submission is final.  

When does this need to be submitted? 

Your Teaching Capabilities Statement needs to be submitted as early as possible, preferably at the time of lodging your application. Your application will not be considered until you have submitted your statement.  

SATAC applicants can check SATAC’s website for further information on key dates and deadlines.