How to get into uni without an atar

Yes, you can get into uni without an ATAR in Australia. There are several recognised pathways that can help you qualify for entry into a bachelor’s degree, whether you've recently left school, completed vocational study, have relevant work experience or are returning to study after time away.

So, if you're wondering how to get into uni without an ATAR, don’t stress. There may be more options available than you realise.

Can you get into uni without an ATAR?

Yes, you can get into university without an ATAR, and ATAR-free entry isn't only available to mature-age students.

School leavers may also be eligible for non-ATAR pathways, depending on the course you want to study and the entry requirements that apply.

There are plenty of reasons you might not have an ATAR. Maybe you left school before completing Year 12, studied vocational subjects or completed a non-ATAR Year 12 program.

Whatever your circumstances, not having an ATAR doesn't necessarily mean you're not ready for university.

Universities look at a range of things to assess whether you're ready for higher education. Depending on the course and university, this could include previous study, vocational qualifications, relevant work and life experience, a portfolio or an entry assessment.

The important thing is to check the requirements for the course you're interested in rather than assuming an ATAR is your only way in.

What are the pathways to get into uni without an ATAR?

If you've been stressing about how you can get into uni without an ATAR, it might help to think of pathways as valid ways to reach your study goal, rather than fallbacks.

The right pathway will depend on your previous study, experience and chosen course. Some pathways even give you credit towards your bachelor’s degree, helping you progress towards your qualification while building confidence at university level.

Diploma and undergraduate certificate pathways

Starting with a diploma, undergraduate certificate or associate degree can provide a pathway into a related bachelor’s degree, and they're the most common types of no-ATAR uni courses.

A diploma is a great introduction to your chosen area of study, while helping you develop the academic skills you'll use throughout your degree. Depending on the course and university, you may also get credit towards a related bachelor’s degree.

At Torrens University Australia, this means you can do a one-year diploma and begin in the second year of your bachelor’s degree. The exact amount of credit and time required will depend on the courses involved.

An undergraduate certificate works in a similar way, with completion offering entry into an undergraduate degree with credit (depending on the requirements of that course).

It's worth checking the pathway arrangements for your preferred degree before applying, as entry and credit aren't the same for every course.

Vocational education and training (VET) pathways

Yes, vocational education and training (VET) can also lead to university entry.

If you've completed a VET qualification, like a certificate or diploma, your study is evidence that you're capable of further education. Depending on the university and degree, it may help you meet entry requirements for a bachelor’s course.

Recognition of prior learning considers relevant skills and knowledge you've already gained, including through formal study and training, and sometimes professional experience.

If you're already working in the industry you want to study, this can be particularly valuable. Relevant qualifications and experience may help demonstrate your readiness for a degree and, in some cases, may contribute towards credit.

Mature-age entry and recognition of prior learning

If you're a non-school-leaver, mature-age entry can provide another way to study at uni without an ATAR.

Mature-age applicants, which is those aged 21 and over, may be assessed using their work, study and life experience rather than relying on a school result.

The evidence required will vary depending on the course you’re looking at. You may be asked to provide a résumé, references or a personal statement explaining your experience and why you'd like to study the course.

Recognition of prior learning can also offer you credit towards your degree.

How to get into uni without finishing Year 12

If you left school early or didn't complete Year 12, a university degree may still be achievable.

The issue of how to get into uni without Year 12 just comes down to finding another way to show that you're ready for uni study. Depending on the degree, this could involve completing a pathway course or providing evidence of relevant study and work experience.

The Study Start Pathway Program is one option that may help eligible students prepare for university study and work towards entry into a degree.

If you've spent time in the workforce, your professional experience may also be helpful to your application, particularly when it connects to the area you'd like to study.

You don't need to work out every possible pathway on your own. A Future Student Advisor can look at your individual circumstances, previous study and experience and help you understand which entry options may apply to your chosen course.

What do I need to do for university entry without an ATAR?

Once you've found a course you're interested in, applying through a non-ATAR pathway can be simpler than you might expect. A good place to start is with these four steps.

1. Choose your course and check the entry requirements. Requirements and prerequisites vary between courses, so check the details for the degree you're considering. Some courses have additional or minimum entry requirements.
2. Gather your documents. Depending on your pathway, you may need academic transcripts, identification and a résumé. Some courses or entry pathways may also require a portfolio, personal statement, employment information or references. Getting these documents together early can make the application process easier.
3. Submit your application. Depending on the course and your circumstances, you may be able to apply directly or through the relevant admissions centre. Make sure you provide all requested information so your application can be assessed using the appropriate entry pathway.
4. Review and accept your offer. If your application is successful, you may receive an unconditional offer, or a conditional offer that asks you to complete particular requirements first. Your offer will explain what you need to do next and how to accept your place.

If you're confused about any part of the process, a Future Student Advisor can help.

An ATAR is one route into university, but it isn’t the only one! Previous study, vocational qualifications, work experience and pathway programs can all provide alternative ways forward.

If university is where you want to go, start by exploring your options. There may be a pathway that gets you there.