The ATAR matters for getting into some university courses, but far less than many students fear, and almost not at all once you are at uni or working. In 2023 about 63% of university admissions were based on the ATAR alone, while 30% used other pathways entirely, according to the Mitchell Institute. Employers rarely ask for it.
Does the ATAR matter? Key facts
- In 2023, about 63% of university admissions used the ATAR alone, 7% the ATAR plus other criteria and 30% other pathways (Mitchell Institute).
- About half of domestic bachelor degree starters in 2023 were not recent school leavers.
- 67% of high socioeconomic students were admitted on the ATAR alone, against 55% of low socioeconomic students.
- ATAR-only admission was most common in engineering and the sciences.
Where the ATAR matters
- Competitive courses with high selection ranks, where the ATAR (plus tests or interviews) decides offers.
- Some fields more than others. The Mitchell Institute found ATAR-only admission was most common in engineering and the sciences and least common in creative arts, education and agriculture.
- Some universities more than others. The same research found one university admitted nearly all school leavers on the ATAR while another used it for about 10% of admissions.
Where it matters less
- Pathways. Diplomas, transfers and alternative entry lead into most degrees. See pathways with a lower ATAR.
- Later applicants. In 2023 about half of domestic bachelor degree starters were not recent school leavers, so the ATAR was not part of their admission.
- After you start. Once you are at university, your university results matter for transfers, honours, scholarships and jobs.
Will employers care about your ATAR?
Rarely. Employers look at your degree, results, skills and experience. For most jobs your ATAR never comes up once you have later study or work to show.
Fairness and the ATAR
The Mitchell Institute found students from high socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to be admitted on the ATAR alone (67%) than those from low socioeconomic backgrounds (55%), who more often used other pathways. Equity schemes exist partly for this reason: see SEAS and EAS.
A healthier way to think about it
The ATAR is one number used to sort one year's university applications. It is not a measure of your intelligence, character or potential. Aim for your best, then use the number for what it is: a ticket into some courses, and one of several. If you are curious what yours might be, our calculators can estimate it, starting with what an ATAR is.
When to put the ATAR first, and when not to
| If you... | The ATAR matters... |
|---|---|
| Want a competitive course such as medicine, law or engineering at a high-demand university | A lot, along with tests, interviews or prerequisites |
| Want a degree with many pathway options | Somewhat; a pathway can get you there |
| Plan an apprenticeship, TAFE or work | Little or not at all |
| Will apply to uni after a few years | Less over time; later study and work count more |
ATAR myths
- "Employers check your ATAR." Rarely. Degrees, results, skills and experience matter more.
- "A low ATAR means you are not smart." It ranks one year of results for university selection.
- "There is only one shot." Pathways, transfers and later entry are common.
FAQ
Does the ATAR really matter?
For some courses, yes. For many students there are other pathways, and after you start uni your ATAR stops mattering.
Is the ATAR important for success?
It helps with entry to some courses, but long-term success depends far more on what you do at uni and at work.
Why is VCE so stressful?
Many students feel the ATAR decides their future. It does not: there are several routes into most courses. Talk to your school's wellbeing staff if stress is affecting you.
Do most students get into uni on their ATAR?
About 63% of admissions in 2023 used the ATAR alone, according to the Mitchell Institute, and about 30% used other pathways.