Cracking the ATAR code: everything you need to know

Your Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is one of the key factors that determines entry into university courses across Australia. If you're in high school and planning your next steps, understanding how ATARs work will help you make informed choices about your studies and future career.

What is an ATAR?

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a numerical ranking between 0.00 and 99.95 that reflects your overall academic achievement in comparison to other students. It is not a percentage but a percentile ranking, meaning an ATAR of 80.00 places you in the top 20% of students in your cohort. ATARs are used by universities to determine course entry requirements.

How is Your ATAR Calculated?

Each state’s Tertiary Admission Centre (TAC) calculates ATARs based on your subject results. The calculation considers your best subjects, including English (which is often compulsory) and a combination of scaled scores from your other subjects. Scaling adjusts scores to ensure fairness across different subjects, as some subjects may be more competitive than others.

For more information on how ATARs are calculated, visit:

Why is the ATAR Important?

Your ATAR is the primary criterion for university entry in Australia. Each course has a minimum ATAR requirement, which varies depending on demand and competitiveness. Some courses, particularly in fields like medicine and law, have higher cut-offs, while others may consider alternative entry pathways such as portfolios, interviews, or special consideration programs.

How to Improve Your ATAR

If you're aiming for a competitive ATAR, here are some key strategies:

  • Choose subjects strategically – Select courses that align with your strengths and interests.
  • Stay organised – Develop a study routine to manage assignments and exam preparation.
  • Seek support – Use school resources, tutoring, and study groups to reinforce your learning.
  • Practice past papers – Familiarise yourself with exam formats and question styles.
Alternative Pathways to University

Not achieving your desired ATAR doesn’t mean the end of your university aspirations. Many universities offer alternative entry pathways, such as:

  • Bridging courses and foundation programs
  • TAFE and vocational education pathways
  • Special entry schemes for disadvantaged students
  • Mature-age entry for students returning to study later in life

Your ATAR is important, but it doesn’t define your future. With multiple pathways to university and careers, focusing on your strengths, working hard, and staying informed will help you achieve your goals.