If you have just knocked off your HSC, chose to go the unscored route and are now wondering what next, you’ll be glad to hear there are degree programs still open to you next year.
The rise in the number of students opting to complete Year 12 without getting an ATAR has been noticeable in many States, for example in WA less than half of Year 12s are opting for scored exams, and on a national level, many students report opting out of exams to avoid stress.
The good news is that there are still plenty of options to get into degrees that are in high demand even if you haven’t got an ATAR, as more institutions recognise the need for alternative pathway programs.
There are a wide range of pathway programs available, from foundation or bridging programs that will allow you entrance to most of your favourite courses, once you pass them successfully; many institutions recognise life experience and other forms of training, including VET qualifications and many also recognise a simple, single exam called uniTEST.
In addition to these pathways, a number of institutions now accept students without an ATAR, based on the idea that all students need to learn core information and new ways to study in the first year of any degree, so institutions embed those processes into first year, often with outstanding student results.
Australia’s oldest specialist sports college, ACPE, doesn’t look at student ATARs, with entrance to a range of high quality sport and dance-related programs open to anyone who can prove they have completed Year 12/ HSC.
“Higher education should be about where you finish, not where you begin,” the CEO of ACPE, Debbie Le Roux said.
“We strive to set a benchmark for outstanding student support, offering small classes which focus on engaging students and connecting them to future careers.
“We work with students and will advise you on how to tailor your study load so that it works for your lifestyle and capabilities.
“That’s why we wish you well for your HSC exams, but we want you to relax, knowing there is a place in an ACPE degree ready and waiting for you next year. The latest research suggests that if you know you have a place waiting for you, you might do better – which is what we want for all our students.
“Your first degree should be all about growing potential, not limiting it.”
