What is an ATAR score?

‍

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a ranking system used to determine university admissions. It assigns high school graduates between 0 and 99.95. The ATAR reflects a student's academic performance compared to their peers rather than an actual score. Understanding the ATAR helps students leverage their results to make strategic decisions about their tertiary education.

‍

Universities across Australia primarily use the ATAR to assess eligibility for various courses. The process also includes ATAR adjustment factors, which can influence a student's final rank, aiding in a more tailored approach to university admissions. This understanding is vital for students aiming to optimise their educational pathways.

‍

How are ATARs calculated?

‍

ATAR is calculated on a percentile basis, increasing in increments of 0.05. For instance, an ATAR of 75.00 signifies that a student is in the top 25 per cent of their cohort, having outperformed 75 per cent of eligible Year 12 students in the state. It's important to note that the cohort includes all students eligible to receive an ATAR, not just those who ultimately do, meaning the rank is relative to a broader group than those who receive a score.

‍

The process of calculating an ATAR varies by state. Still, the fundamental steps remain consistent: students receive a raw score for each subject, which is then scaled to account for the relative difficulty and performance compared to others. These scaled scores are aggregated, often with varying weightings for different subjects. Finally, this aggregate is positioned on a state-wide bell curve, determining each student's ATAR as a percentile rank within the eligible student population. This rigorous method ensures each ATAR accurately reflects a student's relative academic standing.

‍

How is ATAR calculated region-wise?

‍

The ATAR calculation reflects a complex process adapted to the educational frameworks of different Australian states. Each state has its own set of rules and methods for scaling and aggregating scores:

‍

• New South Wales (NSW): The ATAR is calculated from the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) results. The University Admissions Centre (UAC) manages the scaling of subjects to balance the varying difficulties and competition levels across subjects. This ensures that students are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged by their choice of study.
• Queensland (QLD): Queensland recently transitioned from the Overall Position (OP) to the ATAR system after graduating Year 12 students in 2020. The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) scales subject results based on the new QCE system, considering students' internal assessments and external examinations.
• Western Australia (WA): The ATAR is derived from the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) exams in WA. The Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC) handles the scaling, which aims to standardise scores across different subjects and schools, ensuring fairness in comparison of results across the state.
• Victoria (VCE): Victorian students receive an ATAR based on their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) scores, calculated by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). VTAC uses a statistical process to adjust VCE study scores, considering the distribution of scores each year to provide a fair ranking system.

‍

These variations are crucial for students to understand, as the state-specific nuances in ATAR calculation can influence their strategic choices in subject selection and exam preparation.

‍

Although the exact  method by which the ATAR is calculated differs state by state, the basic principle is the same:

• A student receives a raw score for each subject, which is graded on a bell curve against the scores of all other students who took that subject.
• Each of these raw scores is 'scaled' up or down based on the relative performance of the subject cohort against the general population.
• An aggregate is calculated by adding a student's scaled scores (sometimes with different weightings for different subjects).
• Each student's aggregate is graded on (yet another) bell curve, this time comprising the entire state student population.
• The ATAR is determined by one's position on this bell curve (presented as a percentile rank).

‍

What is considered a good ATAR?‍

‍

The definition of a 'good' ATAR will differ significantly from person to person and should be informed by your goals and circumstances. For some, a 99.95 ATAR may be the ultimate end goal, whereas, for others, a reasonable rank to aim for may be the ATAR required to get into a specific university course.

‍

How important is your ATAR?

‍

Ultimately, the importance of your ATAR depends on how much weight you give it. It would help if you worked hard to achieve the best ATAR possible, but remember that this single number is not the be-all and end-all. It is simply a way of getting into your desired course and will not define the rest of your life. If you don't get the ATAR you aim for, don't stress because there is always more than one pathway to your dream career!

‍

What is the average ATAR?

‍

The average ATAR usually sits at around 70.00. Why is this? Although an ATAR of 70 places a student in the top 70% of year 12 students, it only places them in the top 50% of students who get an ATAR (since students will not finish their year 12 studies).

‍

It's important to note that the ATAR is not a score but a rank. It measures each student's overall academic performance relative to the rest of their cohort.

‍

Is it hard to get an ATAR above 85?

‍

An ATAR of 85.00 means that you are in the top 15% of the state or around the top 25% of students who receive an ATAR (i.e., the top 25% of ATAR scores). This is an impressive accomplishment, but it is achievable for every student, especially if they have the proper study habits and preparation for their exams.

‍

How many students achieve a 99 ATAR?

‍

The number of students who achieve a 99.00 ATAR differs yearly, but they make up the top 1 per cent in every state.

‍

Approximately 500 students will get a 99 ATAR in states like Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Approximately 100 students score a 99 yearly in Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania, while approximately 40 students achieve this in the ACT.

‍

Do year 11 subjects count towards your ATAR?

‍

No, your ATAR is based entirely upon your performance in your Year 12 studies unless you decide to take a Year 12 subject early. Much of the content you learn in Year 11 serves as 'assumed knowledge' for the following year, so it is still good to be across everything!

‍

Is the ATAR rank equivalent across states?

‍

Yes, ATAR ranks are treated as equivalent across states. This means that Australian universities will treat every ATAR equally, no matter the state in which it was obtained.

‍

A 'notional ATAR' can be calculated through standard conversion rates for students completing other courses, such as the International Baccalaureate. This is also considered equivalent to a standard ATAR.

‍

How can I get a high ATAR?

‍

There are many strategies for achieving a high ATAR. One crucial is consistent study, and another is school tutoring support with an expert.

‍

• Subject Selection: It's vital to select subjects based on personal interests and strengths and how they are scaled. High-scaling subjects, often considered more challenging or rigorous, can boost an ATAR if performed well.
• Consistent Effort: Consistency in study habits is crucial throughout the school year. Students should understand content profoundly and keep up with their coursework to avoid last-minute cramming. Regular revision and practice can solidify knowledge and improve recall under exam conditions.
• Quality Resources: High-quality study materials, such as official syllabi, past exam papers, and reputable revision guides, can provide an edge. These resources ensure that students are studying the most relevant and accurate information.
• Skill Development: Developing compelling study and exam techniques is essential. This includes mastering essay writing, problem-solving, and analytical skills depending on the subject requirements. Time management during preparation and in exams also plays a critical role in maximising performance.

‍

We've got you sorted! Follow the link for our tips on achieving your dream ATAR. Check out our other posts here for more advice and information about the ATAR system.

‍

What is an ATAR score?

‍

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a ranking system used to determine university admissions. It assigns high school graduates between 0 and 99.95. The ATAR reflects a student's academic performance compared to their peers rather than an actual score. Understanding the ATAR helps students leverage their results to make strategic decisions about their tertiary education.

‍

Universities across Australia primarily use the ATAR to assess eligibility for various courses. The process also includes ATAR adjustment factors, which can influence a student's final rank, aiding in a more tailored approach to university admissions. This understanding is vital for students aiming to optimise their educational pathways.

‍

How are ATARs calculated?

‍

ATAR is calculated on a percentile basis, increasing in increments of 0.05. For instance, an ATAR of 75.00 signifies that a student is in the top 25 per cent of their cohort, having outperformed 75 per cent of eligible Year 12 students in the state. It's important to note that the cohort includes all students eligible to receive an ATAR, not just those who ultimately do, meaning the rank is relative to a broader group than those who receive a score.

‍

The process of calculating an ATAR varies by state. Still, the fundamental steps remain consistent: students receive a raw score for each subject, which is then scaled to account for the relative difficulty and performance compared to others. These scaled scores are aggregated, often with varying weightings for different subjects. Finally, this aggregate is positioned on a state-wide bell curve, determining each student's ATAR as a percentile rank within the eligible student population. This rigorous method ensures each ATAR accurately reflects a student's relative academic standing.

‍

How is ATAR calculated region-wise?

‍

The ATAR calculation reflects a complex process adapted to the educational frameworks of different Australian states. Each state has its own set of rules and methods for scaling and aggregating scores:

‍

• New South Wales (NSW): The ATAR is calculated from the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) results. The University Admissions Centre (UAC) manages the scaling of subjects to balance the varying difficulties and competition levels across subjects. This ensures that students are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged by their choice of study.
• Queensland (QLD): Queensland recently transitioned from the Overall Position (OP) to the ATAR system after graduating Year 12 students in 2020. The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) scales subject results based on the new QCE system, considering students' internal assessments and external examinations.
• Western Australia (WA): The ATAR is derived from the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) exams in WA. The Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC) handles the scaling, which aims to standardise scores across different subjects and schools, ensuring fairness in comparison of results across the state.
• Victoria (VCE): Victorian students receive an ATAR based on their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) scores, calculated by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). VTAC uses a statistical process to adjust VCE study scores, considering the distribution of scores each year to provide a fair ranking system.

‍

These variations are crucial for students to understand, as the state-specific nuances in ATAR calculation can influence their strategic choices in subject selection and exam preparation.

‍

Although the exact  method by which the ATAR is calculated differs state by state, the basic principle is the same:

• A student receives a raw score for each subject, which is graded on a bell curve against the scores of all other students who took that subject.
• Each of these raw scores is 'scaled' up or down based on the relative performance of the subject cohort against the general population.
• An aggregate is calculated by adding a student's scaled scores (sometimes with different weightings for different subjects).
• Each student's aggregate is graded on (yet another) bell curve, this time comprising the entire state student population.
• The ATAR is determined by one's position on this bell curve (presented as a percentile rank).

‍

What is considered a good ATAR?‍

‍

The definition of a 'good' ATAR will differ significantly from person to person and should be informed by your goals and circumstances. For some, a 99.95 ATAR may be the ultimate end goal, whereas, for others, a reasonable rank to aim for may be the ATAR required to get into a specific university course.

‍

How important is your ATAR?

‍

Ultimately, the importance of your ATAR depends on how much weight you give it. It would help if you worked hard to achieve the best ATAR possible, but remember that this single number is not the be-all and end-all. It is simply a way of getting into your desired course and will not define the rest of your life. If you don't get the ATAR you aim for, don't stress because there is always more than one pathway to your dream career!

‍

What is the average ATAR?

‍

The average ATAR usually sits at around 70.00. Why is this? Although an ATAR of 70 places a student in the top 70% of year 12 students, it only places them in the top 50% of students who get an ATAR (since students will not finish their year 12 studies).

‍

It's important to note that the ATAR is not a score but a rank. It measures each student's overall academic performance relative to the rest of their cohort.

‍

Is it hard to get an ATAR above 85?

‍

An ATAR of 85.00 means that you are in the top 15% of the state or around the top 25% of students who receive an ATAR (i.e., the top 25% of ATAR scores). This is an impressive accomplishment, but it is achievable for every student, especially if they have the proper study habits and preparation for their exams.

‍

How many students achieve a 99 ATAR?

‍

The number of students who achieve a 99.00 ATAR differs yearly, but they make up the top 1 per cent in every state.

‍

Approximately 500 students will get a 99 ATAR in states like Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Approximately 100 students score a 99 yearly in Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania, while approximately 40 students achieve this in the ACT.

‍

Do year 11 subjects count towards your ATAR?

‍

No, your ATAR is based entirely upon your performance in your Year 12 studies unless you decide to take a Year 12 subject early. Much of the content you learn in Year 11 serves as 'assumed knowledge' for the following year, so it is still good to be across everything!

‍

Is the ATAR rank equivalent across states?

‍

Yes, ATAR ranks are treated as equivalent across states. This means that Australian universities will treat every ATAR equally, no matter the state in which it was obtained.

‍

A 'notional ATAR' can be calculated through standard conversion rates for students completing other courses, such as the International Baccalaureate. This is also considered equivalent to a standard ATAR.

‍

How can I get a high ATAR?

‍

There are many strategies for achieving a high ATAR. One crucial is consistent study, and another is school tutoring support with an expert.

‍

• Subject Selection: It's vital to select subjects based on personal interests and strengths and how they are scaled. High-scaling subjects, often considered more challenging or rigorous, can boost an ATAR if performed well.
• Consistent Effort: Consistency in study habits is crucial throughout the school year. Students should understand content profoundly and keep up with their coursework to avoid last-minute cramming. Regular revision and practice can solidify knowledge and improve recall under exam conditions.
• Quality Resources: High-quality study materials, such as official syllabi, past exam papers, and reputable revision guides, can provide an edge. These resources ensure that students are studying the most relevant and accurate information.
• Skill Development: Developing compelling study and exam techniques is essential. This includes mastering essay writing, problem-solving, and analytical skills depending on the subject requirements. Time management during preparation and in exams also plays a critical role in maximising performance.

‍

We've got you sorted! Follow the link for our tips on achieving your dream ATAR. Check out our other posts here for more advice and information about the ATAR system.

‍

What is an ATAR score?

‍

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a ranking system used to determine university admissions. It assigns high school graduates between 0 and 99.95. The ATAR reflects a student's academic performance compared to their peers rather than an actual score. Understanding the ATAR helps students leverage their results to make strategic decisions about their tertiary education.

‍

Universities across Australia primarily use the ATAR to assess eligibility for various courses. The process also includes ATAR adjustment factors, which can influence a student's final rank, aiding in a more tailored approach to university admissions. This understanding is vital for students aiming to optimise their educational pathways.

‍

How are ATARs calculated?

‍

ATAR is calculated on a percentile basis, increasing in increments of 0.05. For instance, an ATAR of 75.00 signifies that a student is in the top 25 per cent of their cohort, having outperformed 75 per cent of eligible Year 12 students in the state. It's important to note that the cohort includes all students eligible to receive an ATAR, not just those who ultimately do, meaning the rank is relative to a broader group than those who receive a score.

‍

The process of calculating an ATAR varies by state. Still, the fundamental steps remain consistent: students receive a raw score for each subject, which is then scaled to account for the relative difficulty and performance compared to others. These scaled scores are aggregated, often with varying weightings for different subjects. Finally, this aggregate is positioned on a state-wide bell curve, determining each student's ATAR as a percentile rank within the eligible student population. This rigorous method ensures each ATAR accurately reflects a student's relative academic standing.

‍

How is ATAR calculated region-wise?

‍

The ATAR calculation reflects a complex process adapted to the educational frameworks of different Australian states. Each state has its own set of rules and methods for scaling and aggregating scores:

‍

• New South Wales (NSW): The ATAR is calculated from the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) results. The University Admissions Centre (UAC) manages the scaling of subjects to balance the varying difficulties and competition levels across subjects. This ensures that students are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged by their choice of study.
• Queensland (QLD): Queensland recently transitioned from the Overall Position (OP) to the ATAR system after graduating Year 12 students in 2020. The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) scales subject results based on the new QCE system, considering students' internal assessments and external examinations.
• Western Australia (WA): The ATAR is derived from the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) exams in WA. The Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC) handles the scaling, which aims to standardise scores across different subjects and schools, ensuring fairness in comparison of results across the state.
• Victoria (VCE): Victorian students receive an ATAR based on their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) scores, calculated by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). VTAC uses a statistical process to adjust VCE study scores, considering the distribution of scores each year to provide a fair ranking system.

‍

These variations are crucial for students to understand, as the state-specific nuances in ATAR calculation can influence their strategic choices in subject selection and exam preparation.

‍

Although the exact  method by which the ATAR is calculated differs state by state, the basic principle is the same:

• A student receives a raw score for each subject, which is graded on a bell curve against the scores of all other students who took that subject.
• Each of these raw scores is 'scaled' up or down based on the relative performance of the subject cohort against the general population.
• An aggregate is calculated by adding a student's scaled scores (sometimes with different weightings for different subjects).
• Each student's aggregate is graded on (yet another) bell curve, this time comprising the entire state student population.
• The ATAR is determined by one's position on this bell curve (presented as a percentile rank).

‍

What is considered a good ATAR?‍

‍

The definition of a 'good' ATAR will differ significantly from person to person and should be informed by your goals and circumstances. For some, a 99.95 ATAR may be the ultimate end goal, whereas, for others, a reasonable rank to aim for may be the ATAR required to get into a specific university course.

‍

How important is your ATAR?

‍

Ultimately, the importance of your ATAR depends on how much weight you give it. It would help if you worked hard to achieve the best ATAR possible, but remember that this single number is not the be-all and end-all. It is simply a way of getting into your desired course and will not define the rest of your life. If you don't get the ATAR you aim for, don't stress because there is always more than one pathway to your dream career!

‍

What is the average ATAR?

‍

The average ATAR usually sits at around 70.00. Why is this? Although an ATAR of 70 places a student in the top 70% of year 12 students, it only places them in the top 50% of students who get an ATAR (since students will not finish their year 12 studies).

‍

It's important to note that the ATAR is not a score but a rank. It measures each student's overall academic performance relative to the rest of their cohort.

‍

Is it hard to get an ATAR above 85?

‍

An ATAR of 85.00 means that you are in the top 15% of the state or around the top 25% of students who receive an ATAR (i.e., the top 25% of ATAR scores). This is an impressive accomplishment, but it is achievable for every student, especially if they have the proper study habits and preparation for their exams.

‍

How many students achieve a 99 ATAR?

‍

The number of students who achieve a 99.00 ATAR differs yearly, but they make up the top 1 per cent in every state.

‍

Approximately 500 students will get a 99 ATAR in states like Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Approximately 100 students score a 99 yearly in Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania, while approximately 40 students achieve this in the ACT.

‍

Do year 11 subjects count towards your ATAR?

‍

No, your ATAR is based entirely upon your performance in your Year 12 studies unless you decide to take a Year 12 subject early. Much of the content you learn in Year 11 serves as 'assumed knowledge' for the following year, so it is still good to be across everything!

‍

Is the ATAR rank equivalent across states?

‍

Yes, ATAR ranks are treated as equivalent across states. This means that Australian universities will treat every ATAR equally, no matter the state in which it was obtained.

‍

A 'notional ATAR' can be calculated through standard conversion rates for students completing other courses, such as the International Baccalaureate. This is also considered equivalent to a standard ATAR.

‍

How can I get a high ATAR?

‍

There are many strategies for achieving a high ATAR. One crucial is consistent study, and another is school tutoring support with an expert.

‍

• Subject Selection: It's vital to select subjects based on personal interests and strengths and how they are scaled. High-scaling subjects, often considered more challenging or rigorous, can boost an ATAR if performed well.
• Consistent Effort: Consistency in study habits is crucial throughout the school year. Students should understand content profoundly and keep up with their coursework to avoid last-minute cramming. Regular revision and practice can solidify knowledge and improve recall under exam conditions.
• Quality Resources: High-quality study materials, such as official syllabi, past exam papers, and reputable revision guides, can provide an edge. These resources ensure that students are studying the most relevant and accurate information.
• Skill Development: Developing compelling study and exam techniques is essential. This includes mastering essay writing, problem-solving, and analytical skills depending on the subject requirements. Time management during preparation and in exams also plays a critical role in maximising performance.

‍

We've got you sorted! Follow the link for our tips on achieving your dream ATAR. Check out our other posts here for more advice and information about the ATAR system.

‍