Pathways to further education
There are many ways to qualify for tertiary study (further education) whether you:
- left school some years ago
- are in Year 12 now
- need to finish your senior education.
The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) handles most tertiary applications.
Read more about the qualification levels and what they mean.
Get help to find a course.
After Year 12
If you are applying for tertiary study as a Year 12 student you will generally be assessed on your Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). The ATAR replaces the Overall Position (OP), given to Queensland students who completed Year 12 in 2019 or prior.
Didn't get an ATAR (or OP)?
You can still be assessed for tertiary entry if you are a Year 12 student but did not study the subjects needed for an ATAR (or OP).
QTAC will consider results from your other subjects (including approved vocational education and training). These results help determine your selection rank.
Read more about eligibility admission criteria.
Adult pathways
If you haven't completed Year 12 there are other pathways to a tertiary course.
Alternative entry
Alternative entry lets you use other qualifications, life and work experience to help with your tertiary application.
Not all tertiary institutions accept alternative entry for all of their courses. Check with your preferred university.
It's recommended that you sit for the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) if you are applying for Alternative entry. The STAT is a 2-hour aptitude test.
Tertiary preparation courses
Preparation courses can help adults get the skills and qualifications needed for tertiary study.
TAFE Queensland offers Adult Tertiary Preparation courses that are generally at Certificate IV level. They give successful students a ranking that QTAC uses to assess their suitability for tertiary study.
TAFE Open Learning also offers a flexible Adult Tertiary Preparation course that allows you to enrol at any time of the year and study at your own pace online or by distance education.