University Entry Pathways

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It's All About Selection Ranks

University entry in Queensland isn’t just about your ATAR. In fact, everything becomes a Selection Rank (SR) — a number used by universities to compare applicants. Whether you’re doing ATAR, VET, Headstart, or other pathways, it all leads to a Selection Rank.

The more precise and well-defined your objectives for the future, the more effectively we can tailor advice towards achieving those specific goals.

If you are unsure we can help guide your thought process with potential strategies and help you identify ways to equip yourself for you adventure and its various outcomes.

What Do I Need to Be Eligible for an ATAR?

To receive an ATAR in Queensland, you must complete:

5 General subjects, or
4 General subjects + 1 Applied subject or a completed Certificate III (or higher) VET qualification

English Requirement

You must also pass an English subject with a grade of C or higher. This can be one of the following:

English
Essential English
Literature
English & Literature Extension
English as an Additional Language

While you need to pass English to be eligible for an ATAR, your English result will only count towards your ATAR if it’s one of your top 5 subject results.

What Do I Need for a Selection Rank (SR)?

Here are the main ways students can achieve a Selection Rank:

ATAR + Adjustments
3 or 4 Headstart Units
VET (e.g. Certificate III, IV or Diploma)
Principal Recommendation Schemes
STAT (Special Tertiary Admissions Test) may be combined with other

Each university may calculate SRs differently, considering:

Subjects studied
Location
School recommendations
Personal circumstances

While you need to pass English to be eligible for an ATAR, your English result will only count towards your ATAR if it’s one of your top 5 subject results.

Suggested Pathways Based on Your Goals

Goal	Suggested Pathway	Estimated SR
Aim for 80+ SR	5 General subjects with A/B grades Or Diploma in Year 10/11/12 including subject prerequisites	> 82
Aim for 70–80 SR	4 General subjects plus Certificate III	68 - 80
Aim for 50–70 SR	Certificate III plus meet course prerequisites	50 - 68

Smart Subject Choices Matter

To strengthen your university application depending on the course, consider:

At least one Science subject
The highest level of Maths you can succeed in
Subjects that teach writing skills (e.g. Legal Studies, Ancient History)

💡 A Certificate III in Year 10 is a great way to futureproof your university options.

What next?

If university is on your radar, now’s the perfect time to start exploring your options. Whether you're ready to apply, want to gain some experience first, or just need help figuring out what suits you best, support is available.

The Faith Future Pathways Team is here to guide you every step of the way—from researching industries and discovering local opportunities to connecting with training providers and potential employers.

No matter where you're at in your journey, we're here to help you make informed, confident decisions about your future.

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