Direct entry (ATAR)
- Your Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) determines eligibility for most undergraduate programs.
- Some universities offer bonus points for specific subjects, regional areas, or equity programs.
Thinking of studying at university?
Key takeaways
- University pathways include direct entry (ATAR), bridging programs, and transitioning from VET courses.
- Research career goals, entry requirements, location, and university reputation to choose the right course.
- Financial support options include FEE HELP, HECS, VET loans, and scholarships.
- Apply for university through state-based systems or directly to the university, and consider early entry and equity programs.
University can be a rewarding path if it aligns with your goals and interests. University pathways offer a structured route to higher education and specialised careers.
Whether you're heading straight to university after Year 12 or considering alternative entry options, here's what you need to know.
What is a university pathway?
A university pathway is a program or approach that prepares you for tertiary education, leading to a bachelor’s degree or higher qualifications. Pathways may include direct entry, bridging programs, or transitioning from VET courses.
University pathway options
Alternative entry options
- Early offers based on your Year 11 results: Some universities will offer you a place in your uni course before you do HSC exams, but you have to apply directly to the uni, early in Year 12.
- VET to university: Complete a TAFE Diploma or Certificate IV to gain credit toward a degree.
- Foundation studies/ Bridging courses: Short programs designed to meet entry requirements for certain degrees.
- Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT): For mature-aged students or those without an ATAR.
- Portfolio entry: Some creative or design-based courses assess portfolios instead of relying on ATARs.
Pathways through other universities
- Study at a partner institution with lower entry requirements and transfer after completing a year of study.
Choosing a university and course
- Research career goals: Which degrees align with your future plans?
- Entry requirements: Check prerequisites, like subject scores or minimum ATARs.
- Location and lifestyle: Consider whether you want to go to a university near to home or need student accommodation at a university further away.
- Reputation and facilities: Look at rankings, teaching quality, and campus resources, or talk to people you might know who have been to the university you’re considering
You can search and compare thousands of courses from different universities and colleges across Australia using Course Seeker.
Government financial support
To learn more about Federal Government student loans like FEE HELP, HECS and VET loans, and to see what support you might be eligible for, visit Study Assist.
FEE HELP enables you to take out a government loan to pay for university costs (including tuition fees) that you pay back, once you start earning above a particular income level.
For more information on other Federal Government financial support for students, visit Centrelink.
Reduced tuition fees
You might be eligible for reduced tuition fees through Commonwealth Supported Places. Find out more on the Good Universities Guide. They also have information about scholarships.
Scholarships
You can explore various scholarships you can apply for at Study Assist. You can also explore tertiary education provider websites or visit Beyond School Study.
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
When you apply for a course, you will need a Unique Student Identifier (USI). A USI is your individual education number that stays with you for life. You'll need it to access Commonwealth financial assistance or receive your qualification or statement of attainment.
Make sure to keep a record of your USI number. You might already have one, or you may need to get one. To apply for your USI, you will need one form of acceptable identification.
You can learn more about the USI and how to get one.
How to apply for university
If you’re having difficulty applying for university, contact your Family Partnership Coordinator and ask them to link you with a Tertiary Coordinator, who may be able to help you apply.
Through a state-based system
- Apply via Tertiary Admissions Centres (e.g., UAC in NSW/ACT, VTAC in VIC, QTAC in QLD).
- Preferences allow you to list multiple courses in order of preference.
- Learn how to apply for university, including early offers at Getting into higher education - Study Assist, Australian Government
Direct applications
- Some courses (e.g., early entry or niche programs) require applications directly to the university.
- Visit the university website to learn more.
Key programs to explore
- Early entry: Some universities offer early offers based on Year 11 results or leadership qualities. Check university websites to see if they offer early offer entry.
- Equity programs: For students facing financial hardship, rural/ remote challenges, or other barriers. These programs may offer reduced fees or extra support during your degree.
- Double degrees: Combine two degrees (e.g., Arts/ Law or Commerce/ Engineering) for broader career options.
If you have trouble applying to university, ask for help! Your teachers, career advisor, or Family Partnership Coordinator can help.
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