Missed out on your dream ATAR? Explore these 5 options

The ATAR – it's a big focus in high school. But despite all the hard work and planning, sometimes things don’t go as expected and your score might not be what you hoped for. The good news? Your ATAR doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving your dreams of a specific course, university or career.

We spoke with Dr Amanda White OAM, Associate Professor in Accounting at the University of Technology Sydney, and former UTS College student Ramya Raparthi who found her own pathway to UTS. Here are some valuable tips for making a Plan B that works for you.

1. Don’t stress … do your research

Your parents, older siblings and even your next-door neighbour have probably told you that your ATAR doesn’t define you. But when you're in the final years of high school, it can certainly feel like it does.

While it might seem like everything hinges on your ATAR, it’s just one of many pathways into university.

Ramya had dreamed of a career in medicine since she was four years old. When her marks fell short, she was understandably disappointed. But after taking time to process it, she shifted her focus to exploring alternative pathways. Through her research on UAC, she discovered several options to keep her goals within reach.

Though medicine remained her first choice, Ramya realised that advanced science could be a strong second option that would keep her moving along the same path. With UTS as her top choice, she found a science diploma at UTS College that would align to her degree.

“Many other universities have similar setups with colleges,” she explains.

“Some universities even consider letters that discuss your goals and plans and extracurricular activities, like volunteering, which can help you earn extra ATAR points. Those extra points might just open more doors for you.

“The first thing you need to do is take a step back, see all your options and ask yourself, ‘How do I approach this differently?’. Because there are always possibilities,” she shares.

Dr Amanda White, who works with many first-year university students, echoes this sentiment.  

“No one asks about your ATAR at uni. Once you’re here, it’s all about the work you do and how dedicated you are to your learning,” she says.

2. Consider transferring

One option is to start in a different UTS undergraduate degree with a lower entry requirement or enrol in a similar course at another university. After you have completed a year of full-time study, you can reapply to UTS via UAC. UTS will then consider your first-year university results or Year 12 marks – whichever is higher.

Amanda offers this advice: “Aim high, the ranking of your application for a transfer into UTS is based on your academic results at your other institution, so make sure you’re doing all you can to achieve great grades.”

Additionally, you might qualify for recognition of prior learning (RPL). This means the subjects you’ve already completed could count towards your new degree, helping you save time and stay on track.

3. Explore UTS College

UTS College offers one-year diplomas that align with the subjects and outcomes of select first-year UTS degrees. These programs provide a solid foundation and the support you need to transition smoothly into university life.

Diplomas are available in fields such as engineering, business, IT, science, design and architecture, and more. Depending on your course and grade point average, your diploma can lead directly into the second year of uni — keeping you on track to graduate on time while earning both a diploma and a degree.

Having a diploma up your sleeve can also help you gain entry-level work experience in your field while continuing your studies.

For Ramya, a Diploma of Science (Life Sciences) at UTS College turned out to be the ideal starting point. Initially hesitant, she now considers it her best decision. Had she gone straight into a science degree and later wanted to change her field, switching would have been much more challenging. The diploma kept her doors open, allowing her to choose from various options for her second year of university, including Advanced Science, Biomedical Physics, Biotechnology, Environmental Biology, Forensic Science and Marine Biology.

"UTS College was a great first step to prepare for university life," Ramya shares.  

"I learned important skills like time management and independent learning."  

She also appreciated the smaller class sizes, which made it easier to adjust to university learning.  

"It’s like a bridge that helps you build confidence and skills while working towards your goals."

Now at the end of her second year at UTS, Ramya is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Pre-Medicine). Through the diploma, she completed nine subjects over three trimesters, earning recognition of prior learning for her first year and credit for two third-year subjects. This means she only needs to complete six subjects in her final year of university.

“I’d definitely recommend it,” Ramya says.  

“The program is well-structured, with timetables that allow you to complete subjects over just two days, leaving time for study, work or other commitments.

“The support is outstanding too. Studiosity is available 24/7, so you can get learning support and quick feedback on your work or assessments anytime of the day or night. You meet others going through the same transition, so you’re never alone. You make friends who will be there with you along the way."

Inspired by the support she received from UTS College and UTS, Ramya hopes to one day teach at UTS, applying her knowledge and experience, before continuing her journey towards her dream of studying medicine.

4. Try TAFE or a private college

You can also consider TAFE and private colleges offering Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) diplomas. These programs can boost your chances when reapplying to UTS and if you opt for a graded diploma, it will make your application even more competitive.

Foundation programs and Tertiary Preparation Certificates (TPC) at TAFE are also excellent ways to prepare for university and strengthen your application.

“Choose a TAFE diploma that aligns with your future study goals,” Amanda recommends.  

“It might mean you can get some recognition of prior learning, helping you reduce the time you’ll need to complete your university degree.”

5. Take a gap year

Taking a year off can be a great way to learn more about yourself, explore new interests and clarify what you really want to pursue. If you’re still set on your original path, use this time to research alternative entry routes – you’ll likely discover one that suits you.  

Remember, your ATAR isn’t everything, and there are many paths to achieving your university and career goals.

For guidance on your pathway options, chat with our future students team or join us at our Info Day on December 18. Speak with UTS staff, meet Ramya at the UTS College hub to hear more about her story, attend an info session or take a campus tour to explore your options at UTS.