For thousands of students across Australia, the culmination of years of hard work and dedication will be measured in a single number: their ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) score. As the end of the 2024 academic year approaches, students and their families are eagerly anticipating the release of ATAR results 2023 in late December.
Here’s what you need to know about the ATAR results 2023, including:
- state-specific information,
- how the scores are calculated, and
- what options are available for students who don’t achieve the score they were hoping for.
Average ATAR Score: What Does It Mean?
The average ATAR score in 2023 will not be known until after the results are released, but in recent years the national average has hovered around 70.
This number can vary significantly between states, with some states traditionally achieving higher or lower average scores than others.
State-Specific ATAR Results 2023: What to Expect
In Western Australia, the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC) will release ATAR scores for Year 12 students on 21 December.
Similarly, Queensland students will be able to access their scores on the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) website from mid-December.
Victoria and New South Wales both use the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) for university entrance, but the way the scores are calculated differs slightly between the two states.
In Victoria, a student’s ATAR score is calculated by comparing their study scores with those of all other students in the state who undertook the same subject.
In New South Wales, the process is more complex, taking into account a student’s HSC marks, moderated assessment marks, and scaling, which aims to ensure that scores across different subjects are comparable.
When are ATAR Results Released 2023?
The release date for ATAR results varies by state. In New South Wales, students will be able to access their ATAR score from 9 am on Thursday 22 December.
Victorian students will receive their results from 7 am on Friday 16 December.
In other states, such as Queensland and Western Australia, the exact release date has yet to be announced, but it is expected to be around the same time as other states.
ATAR Calculator 2023: What You Need to Know
There are a number of online ATAR calculators available for students who want to get an idea of what their final score might be. These calculators take into account a range of factors, including study scores, scaling, and the number of units studied.
However, it’s important to remember that these calculators are only an estimate and should not be relied upon as an accurate reflection of a student’s final score.
UNSW ATAR Requirements: Understanding the Process
For students who are hoping to gain admission to the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in 2023, the university’s ATAR requirements will be a key consideration. These requirements vary depending on the course a student is applying for, with some courses being more competitive than others.
Students who do not meet the ATAR requirements for their desired course may still be able to gain admission through alternative pathways, such as bridging courses or through the university’s Access and Equity program.
Options for Students Who Don’t Achieve Their Desired ATAR Score
For students who don’t achieve the ATAR score they were hoping for, it’s important to remember that there are still many options available. These include
- vocational education and training (VET) courses,
- apprenticeships, and
- TAFE courses,
These courses can provide valuable life skills and life-changing qualifications.
It’s also worth considering alternative pathways to university, such as studying a diploma or foundation course, which can provide a pathway to further study at a later date. It’s important for students to keep an open mind and explore all of the options available to them.
ACEHSC and VCE Results 2023: What You Need to Know
The Australian Certificate of Education (ACE) and Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) are the qualifications awarded to students in New South Wales and Victoria, respectively.
ACEHSC refers to the Higher School Certificate (HSC) component of the ACE. Both the ACE and VCE are used to calculate a student’s ATAR score and are important for university admission.
Students who have completed these qualifications will receive their results at the same time as their ATAR score.
ATAR Scaling: Understanding the Process
Scaling is the process by which a student’s study scores are adjusted to account for differences in the difficulty of different subjects.
The aim of scaling is to ensure that scores across different subjects are comparable and that no student is disadvantaged by taking a subject that is perceived to be more difficult.
The scaling process is complex and can be difficult to understand, but it’s important for students to be aware of it when considering their subject choices.
ATAR Compass: Navigating the Process
ATAR Compass is a free online resource that provides information and guidance to students who are navigating the ATAR process.
The website includes a range of tools and resources, including an ATAR calculator, information on alternative pathways to university, and advice on subject selection.
It’s a valuable resource for students who are looking for guidance and support throughout the ATAR process.
VCE Honour Roll 2023: Recognising Excellence
The VCE Honour Roll recognises the outstanding achievements of Victorian students who have achieved study scores of 40 or above in one or more subjects.
Students who achieve a study score of 40 or above are recognised on the Honour Roll, which is published on the VCAA website.
The Honour Roll is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these students and provides inspiration for others who are striving to achieve their goals.
ATAR Exams: Preparation is Key
For students who are preparing for ATAR exams in 2023, the key to success is preparation. This means starting early, staying organised, and seeking help when needed.
Students should make use of resources such as past exam papers, study guides, and tutoring services to help them prepare. It’s also important to maintain a healthy work-life balance and to take breaks when needed to avoid burnout.
Three useful websites for ATAR updates
- ATAR Notes: ATAR Notes is a popular website that provides a range of resources for students preparing for their ATAR exams. The website offers study guides, online forums, and practice exams for a range of subjects. Here is the link: https://atarnotes.com/
- ATAR Calculator: The ATAR Calculator is a useful tool for students who want to estimate their ATAR score based on their subject scores. The calculator is available for each state and territory and can be found on the respective state’s Tertiary Admissions Centre (TAC) website. For example, here is the link to the ATAR Calculator for Victoria: https://www.vtac.edu.au/results-offers/atar-calculator.html
- ATAR Compass: As mentioned earlier in the article, ATAR Compass is a free online resource that provides guidance and support to students who are navigating the ATAR process. Here is the link to the website: https://atarcompass.edu.au/
Conclusion (ATAR Results 2023)
The ATAR process can be challenging and stressful, but with the right preparation and support, students can achieve their goals and succeed in their chosen field.
By staying informed, exploring all of the options available, and seeking help when needed, students can navigate the ATAR process with confidence and achieve their full potential.
FAQs – What you should know about ATAR
What is ATAR, and how is it calculated?
Answer: ATAR stands for Australian Tertiary Admission Rank. It’s a numerical rank that represents a student’s position relative to other students in their year group. ATAR is calculated based on a student’s performance in their senior secondary studies, with a weighting given to their performance in their best four subjects. The calculation of ATAR involves a complex process that takes into account a range of factors such as the student’s raw exam scores, subject difficulty, and scaling.
When are ATAR results typically released?
Answer: ATAR results are usually released in late December or early January, depending on the state or territory. The exact date of release may vary each year, and students can check their respective state’s Tertiary Admissions Centre (TAC) website for the specific release date.
Can a low ATAR score prevent a student from getting into university?
Answer: Not necessarily. While ATAR is an important factor in university admission, it’s not the only factor considered. Universities also take into account a range of other factors such as a student’s performance in specific subjects, their work experience, and their extra-curricular activities. Additionally, some universities offer alternative pathways to admission, such as TAFE courses or bridging programs.
Can a student improve their ATAR score after it’s been released?
Answer: No. Once ATAR scores are released, they are final and cannot be changed. However, students who are unhappy with their ATAR score may still have other options available to them, such as applying for a course through a pathway program or seeking out other tertiary education providers.
How can a student prepare for ATAR exams?
Answer: Preparation for ATAR exams should start early and involve a range of strategies. Students should aim to stay organised, create a study schedule, and seek help from teachers or tutors when needed. Practice exams and past papers can be useful for familiarising oneself with the exam format and identifying areas that need improvement. It’s also important to maintain a healthy work-life balance, eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep.
