Victoria University has been forced to apologise to thousands of prospective students after mistakenly suggesting they had been offered early entry to courses due to begin this year.
The university says a “system error” led to a December 24 email being sent to many more hopeful applicants than those intended to receive it.
The Christmas Eve email was intended to remind students who had already received early offers to enrol in courses starting in this year’s first semester.
But the blunder wasn’t detected until January 4 when the university was contacted by some unintended recipients of the email.
Irate parents and potential students vented their frustration on Victoria University’s Facebook page.
Heidi Jackson, whose daughter has applied to study law, posted that she was sad for students misled by the incorrect email.
“Poor form Vic Uni, poor form. So how many desperate and driven students received email offers in error? Shame on you.”
Lola Lopez also shared her frustration after receiving the Christmas Eve email.
“As someone who was a recipient of one of those emails, I am bitterly disappointed. It’s a cruel joke to play on someone.”
Michelle Meadows Lavars said her son “has been on an emotional rollercoaster” due to the error. “He was just recovering from major surgery and it lifted his spirits to know he was going to study his favourite subject –history. Then we received the horrible email and it was totally gut wrenching. I want them to realise the damage they have done. I hope someone got the sack for it because it’s totally unacceptable.”
Acting vice-chancellor Kerri-Lee Krause said VU took immediate action to recall and clarify the email when it became aware of the error.
“Individual advice about enrolment is also being offered on a case by case basis,” she said.
“The university apologises for the original error in this instance that may have caused confusion for school leavers and other people hoping to commence higher education courses this year.”
Ms Krause said VU sincerely regrets the error and will contact successful students when VTAC round one offers are released on Monday, January 18.
“Currently, applications are being assessed and once completed, the university will communicate with all interested students about course offers, tertiary study options or pathway opportunities.”
Victoria University Student Union president Sarah Schafer Rivilla said the error was inexcusable.
“It’s a terrible admin mistake for VU. There’s really no excuse for it; it’s tragic.”
