Understanding the ATAR: A Comprehensive Guide
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a number that represents your overall academic achievement in relation to other students in your age group. It's a key factor in gaining admission to many undergraduate courses at Australian universities. This guide will break down what the ATAR is, how it's calculated, and its role in your university aspirations.
What is the ATAR?
The ATAR is a percentile rank, not a mark out of 100. It indicates your position relative to all other students in your state or territory who are of the same age. Specifically, it ranks you against all students, not just those who completed Year 12. An ATAR of 80.00, for example, means you performed better than 80% of your age cohort. The highest possible ATAR is 99.95. Note that scores between 99.95 and 100.00 are not differentiated.
It's important to understand that the ATAR is used by universities to compare applicants from different schools and states, as each has its own curriculum and grading system. It provides a standardised measure of academic achievement that universities can use for admissions purposes. The ATAR is valid for a set period, usually a few years, depending on the institution.
How the ATAR is Calculated
The ATAR calculation process is complex and varies slightly between states and territories, but the underlying principles are similar. Here's a general overview:
- Scaled Scores: Your raw marks in each subject are first converted into scaled scores. Scaling adjusts for differences in the difficulty of different subjects and the performance of students in those subjects. This ensures that choosing a 'harder' subject doesn't disadvantage you.
- Aggregation: Your best scaled scores are then added together to create an aggregate score. The number of subjects that contribute to the aggregate score varies by state/territory, but it's generally around the best 5 or 6 subjects, including English. Some states have rules about which subjects must be included in the aggregate.
- ATAR Conversion: The aggregate score is then converted into an ATAR. This conversion process ensures that the ATAR reflects your percentile ranking within your age cohort. The specific method used for this conversion is determined by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) or its equivalent in each state/territory.
Understanding Scaling
Scaling is a crucial aspect of ATAR calculation. It aims to level the playing field by accounting for differences in subject difficulty and the academic calibre of students choosing different subjects. For example, if a subject is generally taken by high-achieving students, the scaling process might adjust the scores upwards to reflect this. Conversely, if a subject is taken by a broader range of students, the scaling might be less pronounced.
Scaling is based on the performance of the entire cohort of students taking a particular subject. It's not predetermined, and it can vary from year to year depending on the overall performance of students in that subject. Information on scaling is usually made available by the relevant tertiary admissions centre after the release of results.
Example of ATAR Calculation (Simplified)
Let's imagine a simplified scenario:
A student completes six subjects.
After scaling, their best five subjects have the following scores: 85, 80, 75, 70, 65.
Their aggregate score is the sum of these scaled scores: 85 + 80 + 75 + 70 + 65 = 375.
This aggregate score of 375 is then converted to an ATAR. Let's say, for the sake of this example, that an aggregate of 375 corresponds to an ATAR of 85.00.
This is a highly simplified example. The actual calculation involves more complex statistical methods and varies between states/territories. Always refer to the official information provided by your state's tertiary admissions centre for accurate details.
The Role of the ATAR in University Admissions
The ATAR is a primary criterion for admission to many undergraduate courses at Australian universities. Universities set minimum ATAR requirements for each course, and students who meet or exceed these requirements are generally eligible for admission. However, meeting the minimum ATAR doesn't guarantee a place, as admission is often competitive, especially for popular courses.
Factors Beyond the ATAR
While the ATAR is important, it's not the only factor that universities consider. Other factors may include:
Subject Prerequisites: Some courses require specific subjects to have been completed in Year 12. For example, a science degree might require completion of mathematics and/or science subjects.
Interviews and Portfolios: Some courses, such as those in creative arts or medicine, may require applicants to attend an interview or submit a portfolio of their work.
Special Entry Schemes: Universities often have special entry schemes for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, rural areas, or Indigenous Australians. These schemes may offer lower ATAR requirements or alternative admission criteria.
Bridging Courses: Some universities offer bridging courses that can help students meet the prerequisites for certain courses or improve their academic skills.
Understanding Course ATARs
Universities publish the ATARs of students who were admitted to each course in the previous year. This information can give you an idea of the ATAR you'll need to gain admission to a particular course. However, it's important to remember that these ATARs are indicative only and can change from year to year depending on the demand for the course and the academic performance of the applicant pool. You can learn more about Reportcard and the resources we offer to help you understand these trends.
Alternative Pathways to University
If you don't achieve the ATAR you need for your desired course, don't despair! There are several alternative pathways to university, including:
Diploma Programs: Completing a diploma at a TAFE or other vocational education provider can provide a pathway to university. Many universities have articulation agreements with TAFEs, allowing students who successfully complete a diploma to gain direct entry into a related degree program, often with credit for prior learning.
Foundation Programs: Some universities offer foundation programs specifically designed to prepare students for university study. These programs typically cover academic skills, study skills, and subject-specific knowledge.
Tertiary Preparation Courses: These courses are offered by various institutions and provide a general preparation for tertiary study.
Transferring from Another University: If you're already enrolled in a university course, you may be able to transfer to another university or course after completing a certain amount of study. This is a common pathway for students who want to change their field of study or gain admission to a more competitive course.
- Mature Age Entry: Universities often have special admission criteria for mature age students (typically those aged 21 or over). These criteria may focus on work experience, life experience, or previous study.
Exploring these alternative pathways can open doors to higher education even if your ATAR doesn't meet the initial requirements. Consider what we offer in terms of guidance and support for navigating these options.
ATAR FAQs
Q: What is a 'good' ATAR?
A: A 'good' ATAR depends on your goals. An ATAR that allows you to get into your desired course is a 'good' ATAR for you. The ATAR required varies significantly between courses and universities.
Q: Does the ATAR consider all my subjects?
A: No, the ATAR is calculated based on your best scaled scores in a certain number of subjects, typically around 5 or 6, including English. The specific rules vary by state/territory.
Q: Can I improve my ATAR after Year 12?
A: Yes, you can improve your ATAR by retaking Year 12 subjects or completing further study, such as a diploma or foundation program. You can also sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) which is designed for mature age students. Refer to the frequently asked questions section for more details.
Q: Is the ATAR the same across all states?
A: While the underlying principles are similar, the specific calculation methods and scaling processes vary slightly between states and territories. The ATAR is designed to be a comparable measure of academic achievement regardless of where you completed your Year 12 studies.
Q: What happens if I don't get an ATAR?
A: If you don't complete Year 12 or don't meet the requirements for an ATAR, you can still pursue alternative pathways to university, such as completing a diploma or foundation program.
Understanding the ATAR is a crucial step in planning your future education. By understanding how it's calculated and its role in university admissions, you can make informed decisions about your subject choices and study habits. Remember to explore all available pathways and resources to achieve your academic goals. Good luck!