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Pathways to University

Whether you’re finishing high school, transitioning from TAFE, changing careers, or never had the chance to finish school, there is a pathway to higher education designed to reflect your experience, strengths, and future goals.

PKUC’s academic advisors can help you navigate available options and identify the pathway that best suits your goals.
To learn more, please complete the New Student Enquiry Form.

University Pathways

Understanding the ATAR Pathway to University

The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) is determined based on a student’s course and examination results. To qualify for an ATAR, students must complete a minimum of four ATAR courses. These courses, recognised for their academic rigor, are considered the optimal preparation for university success.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for university admission as a school leaver through ATAR, students must:

  • Satisfy any specific prerequisites or special requirements for the intended course of study.
  • Fulfill the requirements for the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).
  • Demonstrate English Language Competency as outlined by the university
  • Attain an ATAR that meets the entry threshold for their desired course.

Some students may be eligible for an ATAR adjustment, which increases their rank to account for specific circumstances.

Adjustments can be awarded for factors such as:

  • Performance in Year 12 subjects.
  • Residing in or attending school in a designated area.
  • Being the first in their family to attend university.
  • Eligibility for Educational Access Schemes (EAS) or similar programs.

These adjustments aim to provide equitable access to higher education by recognizing individual achievements and challenges.

Students can utilise Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications to meet the minimum entry requirements for various undergraduate courses. Typically, applicants are required to:

  • Successfully complete the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).
  • Obtain a qualification at Certificate IV level or higher.

Meet the English Language Competency standards as specified by the university.

There are dedicated pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to enter university. Our academic advisors can provide additional information on how to access these.

University preparation or enabling courses are tailored to equip students with the skills necessary to qualify for a range of undergraduate programs. These courses emphasise core competencies essential for university-level study, including:

  • Research and analytical skills.
  • Academic writing processes.
  • Numeracy and problem-solving abilities.

The PKUC provides further information on these courses offered by our partner universities

Students may be eligible for entry into specific undergraduate courses through a portfolio pathway. This option allows applicants to demonstrate their academic achievements, qualifications, skills, and overall suitability for tertiary study based on work and life experiences. 

Students who have faced exceptional circumstances during their senior secondary schooling, which have negatively impacted their Year 11 and 12 studies, may be eligible for special consideration for undergraduate admission to Western Australian universities.

Further Information

Pathways to university

Department of Education

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