Admission criteria
How your Year 12 qualifications are assessed
If you’ve completed an Australian Year 12 qualification (eg NSW HSC), your admission to most tertiary courses is based on your selection rank, which is usually your ATAR. However, if other factors are taken into consideration, these will be combined with your ATAR to adjust your selection rank and make it higher than your ATAR. These adjustments used to be called ‘bonus points’.
Some courses specify course prerequisites (eg completing, or achieving a specified standard in, a particular HSC course), which you have to satisfy before you can be considered for an offer.
Most universities also use other criteria when selecting students, such as a personal statement, a questionnaire, a portfolio of work, an audition, an interview or a test, which are considered together with (or sometimes instead of) your selection rank.
You can find details of any prerequisites or additional selection criteria in the course descriptions via the course search.
ATARs and selection ranks
For each course, UAC publishes an ATAR profile. Where relevant, this will include:
- the lowest ATAR that resulted in an offer to the course in semester 1, 2022
- the lowest selection rank that resulted in an offer to the course in semester 1, 2022.
These ATAR profiles will be updated in August 2023 to show data relating to semester 1, 2023.
A small number of institutions indicate a guaranteed ATAR or guaranteed selection rank. If you achieve this ATAR or selection rank then you are guaranteed an offer to that course for semester 1, 2023.
Use all ATAR profile data as a guide only to your chances of receiving an offer; it provides a broad overview of the ATARs and selection ranks of previous Year 12 students admitted into that course. ATARs and selection ranks required for entry in 2023 may be different. If you are unsure about including a course among your preferences, contact the relevant institution.
The ATAR profile data published in the UAC course descriptions is in line with Commonwealth Government transparency requirements. It is based on offers to recent school leavers who were selected solely or partly on their ATAR. Note that some institutions publish different information on their websites.
Lowest ATARs
Don’t assume that the published lowest ATAR for a course is the ATAR you require to be made an offer to that course. The applicant who received that ATAR may have been eligible for adjustment factors and had their selection rank increased, making them eligible for an offer.
Lowest selection ranks
We used to refer to the lowest selection rank for a course as the course ‘cut-off’. It includes any increase to an applicant’s selection rank made as a result of adjustment factors (which used to be called ‘bonus points’).
Three factors determine lowest selection ranks:
- the number of places available in the course
- the number of applicants for the course
- the quality of those applicants.
These three factors mean that lowest selection ranks change from year to year and are impossible to predict before applicants are selected for a particular course in a particular year. The lowest selection rank for any course can increase, decrease or remain the same. It does not represent the average ability of the students accepted for the course and does not reflect the difficulty or quality of the course.
Lowest ATARs and selection ranks are not known until all offers have been made. Therefore, the course search shows the courses available in 2022 and 2023 but the lowest ATARs and lowest selection ranks of previous applicants offered a place in each of those courses.
Interstate Year 12 courses and results
Compare your Year 12 courses and results to NSW HSC courses and results to check that you meet any course prerequisites or assumed knowledge and to determine if your selection rank will be adjusted if you perform well in a course.
ACT course results and equivalent NSW HSC course results
| ACT scaled mark | NSW HSC Band | NSW HSC Band extension course |
|---|---|---|
| 180+ | 6 | E4 |
| 154–179 | 5 | E3 |
| 133–153 | 4 | E3 |
| 115–132 | 3 | E2 |
| 97–114 | 2 | E2 |
| 0–96 | 1 | E1 |
ACT courses comparable to NSW HSC courses
To be considered comparable to a NSW HSC subject your course must:
- be accredited as a ‘T’ or ‘H’ course
- be the minimum of a Major
The information in this table is applicable for 2023 admissions only. Use it as a guide for 2024 admissions.
English subjects
| ACT subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
| Creative Writing | English Studies (Examination) |
| English (Major) | English Advanced |
| English (Major/Minor)1 | English Extension 1 |
| English (Major/Major-Double Major)1 | English Extension 2 |
| ESL (Major)/ ESL for Academic Purposes | English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
| Literature | English Advanced |
Mathematics subjects
| ACT subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
| Mathematical Applications | Mathematics Standard 2 |
| Mathematics – Interstate | Mathematics Standard 2 |
| Mathematical Methods/Further Mathematics(Major) | Mathematics Advanced |
| Specialist Mathematics/Specialist Methods (Major) | Mathematics Advanced |
| Mathematics – International | Mathematics Advanced |
| Specialist Mathematics/Specialist Methods (Major/Minor)1 | Mathematics Extension 1 |
| Mathematical Methods/Further Mathematics (Major/Minor)1 | Mathematics Extension 1 |
| Further Mathematics (Double Major) | Mathematics Extension 2 |
| Specialist Mathematics/Specialist Methods (Double Major)1 | Mathematics Extension 2 |
| Specialist Mathematics – ANU/Discrete Mathematics – ANU/UC | Mathematics Extension 2 |
All others subjects (excluding languages other than English)
| ACT subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
| Accounting | Financial Services |
| Accounting (H) | Economics |
| Agriculture | Agriculture |
| Animal Husbandry | Agriculture |
| American History | Modern History |
| Ancient History | Ancient History |
| Art Production | Visual Arts |
| Asian Studies | Society and Culture |
| Australian History | Modern History |
| Australian Studies | * |
| Automotive Technology | Automotive Examination (Vehicle Body) |
| Behavioural Science / Human Development in Society | * |
| Biology / Biological Science / Biological Studies | Biology |
| Biology Interstate | Biology |
| Business Management / Business Operations/Business | Business Studies |
| Business Services | Business Studies |
| Business Studies / Business and Technology / Industry and Enterprise/ Business Economics | Business Studies |
| Ceramics | Visual Arts |
| Chemistry/ Chemistry (H) | Chemistry |
| Creative Art | Visual Arts |
| Creative Writing | * |
| Commerce | Economics |
| Computer Aided Design | Design and Technology |
| Computing Studies | Information Processes and Technology |
| Conservation Biology (H)/ Biodiversity – ANU | Biology |
| Dance Studies | Dance |
| Design and Technology | Design and Technology |
| Design and Graphic Communication/Design Technology & Graphics | Design and Technology |
| Design Foundation – UC/ Design Interstate/Industrial Technology | Design and Technology |
| Design Interstate / Industrial Technology | Design and Technology |
| Discovering Engineering – ANU | Design and Technology |
| Drama | Drama |
| Early Childhood Studies | Community and Family Studies |
| Earth Science | Earth and Environmental Science |
| Economics / Accounting | Economics |
| Economics/ Economics – International | Economics |
| Electronics / Electrotechnology Engineering / Engineering Studies | Engineering Studies |
| Environmental Systems / Environmental Science/ Earth and Environmental Science/Environmental Systems | Earth and Environmental Science |
| Fashion Design / Fashion Design and Textiles / Textiles And Design | Textiles and Design |
| FBS: Sciences | Investigating Science |
| Flight / Physics | Physics |
| Food Science and Management / Food Studies | Food Technology |
| Forestry | Agriculture |
| General Science | Senior Science |
| Geography | Geography |
| Geology | Earth and Environmental Science |
| Global Relations, Global Politics | * |
| Health and Physical Education / Health and Human Development / Health and Wellbeing | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| History/Interdisciplinary History/Modern/Ancient History History and Geography/ Pre-Modern History | Modern History |
| Hospitality/Hospitality Interstate | Hospitality Examination (Food and Beverage) |
| Hospitality Operations | Hospitality Examination (Kitchen Operations and Cookery) |
| Human Biology | Biology |
| Human Movement/ Exercise Studies | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Indigenous Culture and Languages | Aboriginal Studies |
| Indonesian Politics and Culture | Society and Culture |
| Information Technology / IT Networking | Information Processes and Technology |
| Information Technology – ANU/UC/ Software Design and Development | Information Processes and Technology |
| Interdisciplinary History | Modern History |
| Interdisciplinary Inquiry | Society and Culture |
| Languages, Literatures and Cultures (FB) | Society and Culture |
| Legal Studies | Legal Studies |
| Materials and Technology | Engineering Studies |
| Media | * |
| Medieval History | Modern History |
| Modern History / Twentieth Century History | Modern History |
| Music / Holistic Music / Music Studies / Advanced Music-ANU | Music 2 |
| Music University/Advanced Classical Music – ANU/Advanced Jazz Music – ANU | Music 2 |
| Music Performance | Music 2 |
| Oceanography | * |
| Outdoor Education | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Philosophy | * |
| Philosophy – International | * |
| Photography | Visual Arts |
| Physical Science / Science for Life/ Sciences Vie et La Terre | Investigating Science |
| Physics / Astrophysics | Physics |
| Physics – ANU | Physics |
| Physics – Interstate | Physics |
| Physical Education | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Physique – Chimie | Investigating Science |
| Psychology / Health and Human Development | * |
| Politics | * |
| Religious Studies / Christian Life Studies | Studies of Religion II |
| Social and Community Studies | Community and Family Studies |
| Sociology | Society and Culture |
| Sports Administration / Sport Fitness and Administration | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Sports Science | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Sports Studies / Sports Development | Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Systems Anatomy and Physiology | Biology |
| Textiles/Fashion | Textiles and Design |
| Theatre Arts / Film and Theatre Arts Studies | Drama |
| Theory of Knowledge | * |
| Tourism and Event Management | Tourism, Travel and Events (Examination) |
| Translating and Interpreting | * |
| Understanding People and Behaviour | Society and Culture |
| Visual Arts / Art and Design / Graphic Design / Creative Art | Visual Arts |
Languages other than English (LOTE)
| ACT subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
| Advanced Arabic | Arabic Continuers |
| Bengali | * |
| Beginning Chinese | Chinese Beginners |
| Intermediate Chinese | Chinese Beginners |
| Continuing Chinese | Chinese Continuers |
| Continuing Chinese - ANU | Chinese Continuers |
| Advanced Chinese1 | Chinese Extension |
| Beginning French | French Beginners |
| Intermediate French | French Beginners |
| Continuing French / French Literature | French Continuers |
| Advanced French1, French FB | French Extension |
| Beginning German | German Beginners |
| Intermediate German | German Beginners |
| Continuing German | German Continuers |
| Advanced German1 | German Extension |
| Modern Greek Beginners | Modern Greek Beginners |
| Continuing Greek | Modern Greek Continuers |
| Beginning Hindi | * |
| Intermediate Hindi | * |
| Continuing Hindi | Hindi Continuers |
| Advanced Hindi/Hindi | Hindi Continuers |
| Advanced Hungarian / Hungarian | Hungarian Continuers |
| Beginning Indonesian | Indonesian Beginners |
| Intermediate Indonesian | Indonesian Beginners |
| Performing Indonesian – ANU | Indonesian Beginners |
| Continuing Indonesian/Indonesian | Indonesian Continuers |
| Advanced Indonesian1 | Indonesian Extension |
| Beginning Italian | Italian Beginners |
| Intermediate Italian | Italian Beginners |
| Continuing Italian | Italian Continuers |
| Advanced Italian1 | Italian Extension |
| Beginning Japanese | Japanese Beginners |
| Intermediate Japanese | Japanese Beginners |
| Continuing Japanese | Japanese Continuers |
| Advanced Japanese1 | Japanese Extension |
| Beginning Korean | Korean Beginners |
| Intermediate Korean | Korean Beginners |
| Continuing Korean/Korean – ANU | Korean Continuers |
| Advanced Korean | Korean and Literature |
| Korean Culture and Language | Korean in Context |
| Beginning Latin | * |
| Continuing Latin | Latin Continuers |
| Classical Greek | Classical Greek (Continuers) |
| Continuing Polish | Polish Continuers |
| Advanced Polish | Polish Continuers |
| Portuguese Continuers | Portuguese Continuers |
| Russian | * |
| Beginning Spanish | Spanish Beginners |
| Intermediate Spanish | Spanish Beginners |
| Continuing Spanish | Spanish Continuers |
| Advanced Spanish1 | Spanish Extension |
| Advanced Tamil/Continuing Tamil | Tamil Continuers |
* There is no comparable NSW HSC subject for this ACT subject. Contact the relevant institution for information on that institution’s policy regarding ACT subjects that have no comparable NSW HSC subject.
1. In the NSW HSC there is a small number of multi-level subject areas (English, mathematics, music and LOTE) which enable advanced students to study extension courses. Students undertaking an extension course must also study the underpinning course. Some institutions, for some courses, award selection rank adjustments for achievement in both courses. In such cases, ACT students undertaking this ACT course will be considered for the same pattern of subject adjustments as NSW HSC students undertaking the comparable course listed in this table and may be eligible to receive more than one adjustment.
Before 2020, Queensland Year 12 students received an Overall Position (OP) instead of an ATAR. The OP provided by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) was used to derive a rank equivalent to the ATAR. This equivalent rank was not reported to applicants. The 2018 OP/ATAR comparison table is provided as a guide only to how the OP and ATAR compare.
QCE course results and equivalent NSW HSC course results
| QCE grade | NSW HSC Band | NSW HSC Band extension course |
|---|---|---|
| A | 6 | E4 |
| B | 5, 4 | E3 |
| C | 3 | E2 |
| D | 2 | E2 |
| E | 1 | E1 |
QCE courses comparable to NSW HSC courses
The following table shows for each QCE courses the comparable course in the NSW HSC.
The information in this table is applicable for 2023 admissions only. Use it as a guide for 2024 admissions.
English subjects
| QCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
| Essential English | English Studies (Examination) |
English |
English Advanced |
| Literature | English Advanced |
English Extension |
English Extension 1 |
| English and Literature (Extension) | English Extension 1 |
English as an Additional Language |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
Mathematics
| QCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Essential Mathematics |
Mathematics Standard 1 (Examination) |
| General Mathematics | Mathematics Standard 2 |
Mathematical Methods |
Mathematics Advanced |
Specialist Mathematics |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
All others subjects (excluding Languages other than English)
| QCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies |
Aboriginal Studies |
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages |
Aboriginal Studies |
Accounting |
Financial Services (Examination) |
Aerospace Studies |
* |
Agricultural Science |
* |
Ancient History |
Ancient History |
Biology |
Biology |
Business Communication and Technologies |
Business Studies |
Business Organisation and Management |
Business Studies |
Business Management |
Business Studies |
Chemistry |
Chemistry |
Dance |
Dance |
| Design | Design and Technology |
| Digital Solutions | Design and Technology |
Drama |
Drama |
Earth and Environmental Science |
Earth and Environmental Science |
Economics |
Economics |
Engineering |
Engineering Studies |
| Film, Television and New Media | * |
Film and Television |
* |
| Food and Nutrition | Food Technology |
Geography |
Geography |
Health |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Home Economics |
Food Technology |
Hospitality Studies |
Food Technology |
Information Processing and Technology |
Information Processes and Technology |
Information Technology Systems |
Information Processes and Technology |
Legal Studies |
Legal Studies |
Marine Studies |
* |
Marine Science |
* |
Modern History |
Modern History |
Multistrand Science |
Investigating Science |
Music |
Music 2 |
Music Extension |
Music Extension |
Philosophy and Reason |
* |
Physical Education |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Physics |
Physics |
| Psychology | * |
Science21 |
Investigating Science |
Study of Religion |
Studies of Religion II |
Study of Society |
Society and Culture |
Technology Studies |
Engineering Studies |
Visual Art |
Visual Arts |
Languages other than English
| QCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Arabic |
Arabic Continuers |
Chinese |
Chinese Continuers |
Chinese Extension |
Chinese Extension |
French |
French Continuers |
French Extension |
French Extension |
German |
German Continuers |
German Extension |
German Extension |
Modern Greek |
Modern Greek Continuers |
Indonesian |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian / Malaysian |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian Extension |
Indonesian Extension |
Italian |
Italian Continuers |
Japanese |
Japanese Continuers |
Korean |
Korean Continuers |
Latin |
Latin Continuers |
Polish |
Polish Continuers |
Russian |
Russian Continuers |
Spanish |
Spanish Continuers |
Vietnamese |
Vietnamese Continuers |
* There is no comparable NSW HSC course for this QCE course. Contact the relevant institution for information on that institution’s policy regarding QCE courses that have no comparable NSW HSC course.
1. In the NSW HSC there is a small number of multi-level subject areas (English, mathematics, music and LOTE) which enable advanced students to study extension courses. Students undertaking an extension course must also study the underpinning course. Some institutions, for some courses, award selection rank adjustments for achievement in both courses. In such cases, QCE students undertaking this QCE course will be considered for the same pattern of subject adjustments as NSW HSC students undertaking the comparable course listed in this table and may be eligible to receive more than one adjustment.
SACE/NTCET course results and equivalent NSW HSC course results
| SACE/NTCET grade | NSW HSC Band | NSW HSC Band extension course |
|---|---|---|
| A+, A | 6 | E4 |
| A- | 5 | E3 |
| B+ | 5 | E3 |
| B, B- | 4 | E3 |
| C+ | 3 | E2 |
| C, C- | 2 | E2 |
| D+, D, D-, E+, E, E- | 1 | E1 |
SACE/NTCET courses comparable to NSW HSC courses
The following table shows for each SACE/NTCET course the comparable course in the NSW HSC.
The information in this table is applicable for 2023 admissions only. Use it as a guide for 2024 admissions.
English subjects
| SACE/NTCET subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Essential English |
English Studies |
English |
English Advanced |
English Literary Studies |
English Advanced |
English as an Additional Language |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
Mathematics subjects
| SACE/NTCET subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Essential Mathematics |
Mathematics Standard 1 |
General Mathematics |
Mathematics Standard 2 |
Mathematical Methods |
Mathematics Advanced |
| * | Mathematics Extension 1 (Specialist Mathematics will satisfy Mathematics Extension 1 requirement) |
Specialist Mathematics1 |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
All others subjects (excluding Languages other than English)
| SACE/NTCET subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Aboriginal Studies |
Aboriginal Studies |
Accounting |
Financial Services (Examination) |
Agricultural Production |
Agriculture |
Agricultural Systems |
* |
| Ancient Studies | * |
Australian History |
Modern History |
Biology |
Biology |
Business Innovation |
Business Studies |
Chemistry |
Chemistry |
Child Studies |
Community and Family Studies |
Creative Arts |
* |
Dance |
Dance |
| Digital Communication Solutions | Design and Technology |
Digital Technologies |
Information Processes and Technology |
Drama |
Drama |
| Earth and Environmental Science | Earth and Environmental Science |
Economics |
Economics |
Ensemble Performance^ |
Music 2 |
Extension Studies A |
Society and Culture |
Food and Hospitality Studies |
Food Technology |
Geography |
Geography |
| Geology | Earth and Environmental Science |
Health and Wellbeing |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
| Industry and Entrepreneurial Solutions | Design and Technology |
Information Processing and Publishing |
Information Processes and Technology |
Integrated Learning II |
* |
Language and Culture |
Society and Culture |
Legal Studies |
Legal Studies |
Material Solutions |
Design and Technology |
Media Studies |
* |
Modern History |
Modern History |
Music in Context^ |
Music 2 |
Music Explorations |
Music 2 |
Music Performance – Ensemble^ |
Music 2 |
Music Performance – Solo^ |
Music 2 |
Music Studies |
Music 2 |
Nutrition |
Food Technology |
Outdoor Education |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Philosophy |
* |
Physical Education |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Physics |
Physics |
| Politics, Power and People | * |
Psychology |
* |
Scientific Studies |
Investigating Science |
Society and Culture |
Society and Culture |
Spirituality, Religion and Meaning |
Studies of Religion II |
Religion Studies |
Studies of Religion II |
Research Project A |
* |
Tourism |
Tourism, Travel and Events Examination (VET) |
Visual Arts - Art |
Visual Arts |
Visual Arts - Design |
Visual Arts |
Women's Studies |
Society and Culture |
Workplace Practices |
Business Studies |
Languages other than English
| SACE/NTCET subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Albanian (Continuers) |
* |
Arabic (Beginners) |
Arabic Beginners |
Arabic (Continuers) |
Arabic Continuers |
Armenian (Continuers) |
Armenian Continuers |
Auslan (Continuers) |
* |
| Australian Languages – Additional Language | * |
| Australian Languages – First Language | * |
| Australian Languages – Revival Language | * |
| Bengali | * |
Bosnian (Continuers) |
* |
Chinese (Beginners) |
Chinese Beginners |
Chinese (Continuers) |
Chinese Continuers |
Chinese Background Speakers |
Chinese and Literature |
Croatian (Continuers) |
Croatian Continuers |
Dutch (Continuers) |
Dutch Continuers |
Farsi |
* |
Filipino (Continuers) |
Filipino Continuers |
French (Beginners) |
French Beginners |
French (Continuers) |
French Continuers |
German (Beginners) |
German Beginners |
German (Continuers) |
German Continuers |
Modern Greek (Beginners) |
Modern Greek Beginners |
Modern Greek (Continuers) |
Modern Greek Continuers |
Hebrew (Continuers) |
Modern Hebrew Continuers |
Hindi (Continuers) |
Hindi Continuers |
Hungarian (Continuers) |
Hungarian Continuers |
Language Awareness I |
* |
Language Awareness II |
* |
Indonesian (Beginners) |
Indonesian Beginners |
Indonesian (Continuers) |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian (Background Speakers) |
Indonesian and Literature |
Italian (Beginners) |
Italian Beginners |
Italian (Continuers) |
Italian Continuers |
Japanese (Beginners) |
Japanese Beginners |
Japanese (Continuers) |
Japanese Continuers |
Japanese (Background Speakers) |
Japanese and Literature |
Khmer (Continuers) |
Khmer Continuers |
Korean (Background Speakers) |
Korean and Literature |
Latin (Continuers) |
Latin Continuers |
Macedonian (Continuers) |
Macedonian Continuers |
Malay (Background Speakers) |
Malay Background Speakers |
Maltese (Continuers) |
Maltese Continuers |
Persian (Background Speakers) |
Persian Background Speakers |
Polish (Continuers) |
Polish Continuers |
Portuguese (Continuers) |
Portuguese Continuers |
Punjabi (Continuers) |
Punjabi Continuers |
Romanian (Continuers) |
* |
Russian (Continuers) |
Russian Continuers |
Serbian (Continuers) |
Serbian Continuers |
Serbo-Croation |
* |
Sinhala (Continuers) |
* |
Spanish (Beginners) |
Spanish Beginners |
Spanish (Continuers) |
Spanish Continuers |
Swedish (Continuers) |
Swedish Continuers |
Tamil (Continuers) |
Tamil Continuers |
Turkish (Continuers) |
Turkish Continuers |
Ukrainian (Continuers) |
Ukrainian Continuers |
Vietnamese (Continuers) |
Vietnamese Continuers |
Vietnamese (Background Speakers) |
* |
Yiddish (Continuers) |
* |
* There is no comparable NSW HSC course for this SACE/NTCET course. Contact the relevant institution for information on that institution’s policy regarding SACE/NTCET courses that have no comparable NSW HSC course.
1. In the NSW HSC there is a small number of multi-level subject areas (English, mathematics, music and LOTE) which enable advanced students to study extension courses. Students undertaking an extension course must also study the underpinning course. Some institutions, for some courses, award selection rank adjustments for achievement in both courses. In such cases, SACE/NTCET students undertaking this SACE/NTCET course will be considered for the same pattern of subject adjustments as NSW HSC students undertaking the comparable course listed in this table and may be eligible to receive more than one adjustment.
TCE course results and equivalent NSW HSC course results
| TCE grade | NSW HSC Band | NSW HSC Band extension course |
|---|---|---|
| EA | 6 | E4 |
| HA | 5 | E3 |
| CA | 4 | E3 |
| SA | 3 | E2 |
| PA | 2 | E2 |
| NN | 1 | E1 |
TCE courses comparable to NSW HSC courses
The following table shows for each TCE course the comparable course in the NSW HSC.
The information in this table is applicable for 2023 admissions only. Use it as a guide for 2024 admissions.
English subjects
| TCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
English |
English Advanced |
English 1A^ |
English Advanced |
English 1B^ |
English Advanced |
English Literature |
English Advanced |
English Communications |
English Advanced |
English Writing |
English Advanced |
Introduction to English A/Studying Texts ^ |
English Advanced |
Introduction to English B/Text and Traditions^ |
English Advanced |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
Mathematics subjects
| TCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
General Mathematics |
Mathematics Standard 2 |
Mathematics Methods - Foundation |
Mathematics Standard 2 |
Mathematics Methods 4 |
Mathematics Advanced |
Mathematics IA^ |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
Mathematics IB^ |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
Mathematics Specialised1 |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
All others subjects (excluding Languages other than English)
| TCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Accounting |
Financial Services |
| Accounting and Financial Decision Making^ | Financial Services |
| Accounting Context | Financial Services |
Agricultural Systems |
Agriculture |
Ancient History |
Ancient History |
Ancient Civilisations 1A: Introduction to Ancient History |
Ancient History |
Ancient Civilisations 1B: Introduction to Classical Literature |
Ancient History |
Agricultural Systems |
Agriculture |
Art Production |
Visual Arts |
Art Studio Practice |
Visual Arts |
Art Theory and Criticism |
Visual Arts |
Asian Studies |
Society and Culture |
Audio Design |
* |
Australia in Asia and the Pacific |
Society and Culture |
Australian Studies |
Society and Culture |
Biology |
Biology |
| Biology of Animals ^ | Earth and Environmental Science |
| Biology of Plants ^ | Earth and Environmental Science |
Business Studies |
Business Studies |
Chemistry |
Chemistry |
Chemistry 1A Hobart ^ |
Chemistry |
Chemistry 1B Hobart ^ |
Chemistry |
Composition 1A^ |
Music 2 |
Computer Graphics and Design |
Design and Technology |
Colonised Land: Indigenous Australian History^ |
Aboriginal Studies |
Computer Science |
Information Processes and Technology |
Contemporary Indigenous Australia^ |
Aboriginal Studies |
Core Studies in Art and Design (Surface Expressions and Form)^ |
Visual Arts |
Dance Choreography and Performance |
Dance |
Drama |
Drama |
Earth and Environmental Science |
Earth and Environmental Science |
| Ecology | Earth and Environmental Science |
Economics |
Economics |
Electronics |
Engineering Studies |
Engineering Statics^ |
Engineering Studies |
Engineering Dynamics^ |
Engineering Studies |
| Environmental Science | Earth and Environmental Science |
Food and Nutrition |
Food Technology |
Foundation Practical Study |
Music 2 |
Foundation Practical Study University College Program |
Music 2 |
Geography |
Geography |
Gender: Being Human ^ |
Society and Culture |
Gender & World ^ |
Society and Culture |
Gender, Power and Change ^ |
Society and Culture |
Health Studies |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
History 1A: Making Modern Europe^ |
Modern History |
History 1B: Making the Modern World^ |
Modern History |
Housing and Design |
Design and Technology |
Human Anatomy and Physiology 1A^ |
Biology |
Human Anatomy and Physiology 1B^ |
Biology |
| Human Biology 1A (Science) | Biology |
| Human Biology 1B (Science) | Biology |
Information Systems & Digital Technologies |
Information Processes and Technology |
| Introduction to International Relations ^ | * |
Introduction to Law^ |
Legal Studies |
Introduction to Management |
Business Studies |
Introduction to Politics and Policy |
* |
Journalism Theory and Practice |
* |
Legal Studies |
Legal Studies |
Legal Systems^ |
Legal Studies |
| Managing People at Work ^ | Business Studies |
Media Production |
* |
Modern World History |
Modern History |
Music |
Music 2 |
Music Technology Project 1 |
Music 2 |
Music Technology Project 2 |
Music 2 |
Object Design |
Design and Technology |
Outdoor Leadership |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Performance 1A^ |
Music 2 |
Philosophy |
* |
Philosophy 1: Ethics^ |
* |
Philosophy 1: Ethics and Equality^ |
* |
Philosophy 2: Mind and Metaphysics^ |
* |
Physical Sciences |
Investigating Science |
Physics |
Physics |
Physics 1A^ |
Physics |
Physics 1B^ |
Physics |
Popular Music and Culture^ |
Music 2 |
Principles of Economics 1^ |
Economics |
Principles of Economics 2^ |
Economics |
| Programming ^ | Information Processes and Technology |
Programming and Problem Solving ^ |
Information Processes and Technology |
| Programming Fundamentals ^ | Information Processes and Technology |
Programming with Data Structure ^ |
Information Processes and Technology |
Psychology |
* |
Psychology: Psychological Process ^ |
* |
Psychology: Understanding Individuality and Abnormality ^ |
* |
Sociology |
Society and Culture |
Sport Science |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Student Directed Inquiry |
* |
Studies of Religion |
Studies of Religion II |
Technical Graphics |
Design and Technology |
Theatre Performance |
Drama |
The Big Questions^ |
* |
The Good Life^ |
* |
Thinking and Writing at University |
* |
Writing Media: Stories and Content |
* |
Languages other than English
| TCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Albanian |
* |
Arabic |
Arabic Continuers |
Armenian |
Armenian Continuers |
Auslan |
* |
Bengali 5C |
* |
Bosnian |
* |
Chinese |
Chinese Continuers |
Chinese (Background Speaker/Specialist level) |
Chinese and Literature |
Chinese 2A^ |
Chinese Extension |
Chinese 2B^ |
Chinese Extension |
Croatian |
Croatian Continuers |
Czech 5C |
* |
Dutch |
Dutch Continuers |
Filipino |
Filipino Continuers |
French |
French Continuers |
French 1A^ |
French Continuers |
French 1B^ |
French Continuers |
French Language 2A^ |
French Extension |
French Language 2B^ |
French Extension |
German |
German Continuers |
German 1A^ |
German Continuers |
German 1B^ |
German Continuers |
German 2A^ |
German Extension |
German 2B^ |
German Extension |
Modern Greek |
Modern Greek Continuers |
Hebrew |
Modern Hebrew Continuers |
Hindi |
Hindi Continuers |
Hungarian |
Hungarian Continuers |
Indonesian |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian 1A^ |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian 1B^ |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian (Background Speakers) |
Indonesian and Literature |
Indonesian 2A^ |
Indonesian Extension |
Indonesian 2B^ |
Indonesian Extension |
Indonesian 3A^ |
Indonesian in Context |
Indonesian 3B^ |
Indonesian in Context |
| Intermediate Latin 2A ^ | Latin Continuers |
| Intermediate Latin 2B ^ | Latin Continuers |
Italian |
Italian Continuers |
| Japanese | Japanese Continuers |
Japanese |
HSC Japanese Extension |
Japanese Core Skills 2A^ |
Japanese Extension |
Japanese Core Skills 2B^ |
Japanese Extension |
Japanese (Background Speaker) |
Japanese and Literature |
Khmer |
Khmer Continuers |
Korean |
Korean Continuers |
Latin 1A^ |
Latin Continuers |
Latin 1B^ |
Latin Continuers |
Macedonian |
Macedonian Continuers |
Maltese |
Maltese Continuers |
Persian |
Persian Continuers |
Polish |
Polish Continuers |
Portuguese |
Portuguese Continuers |
Punjabi |
Punjabi Continuers |
Romanian |
* |
Russian |
Russian Continuers |
Serbian |
Serbian Continuers |
Sinhala |
* |
Slovenian 5C |
* |
Spanish |
Spanish Continuers |
Swedish |
Swedish Continuers |
Tamil 5C |
Tamil Continuers |
Turkish 5C |
Turkish Continuers |
Ukrainian 5C |
Ukrainian Continuers |
Vietnamese |
Vietnamese Continuers |
Yiddish |
* |
* There is no comparable NSW HSC course for this TCE course. Contact the relevant institution for information on that institution’s policy regarding TCE courses that have no comparable NSW HSC course.
^ TCE has a number of courses that are 8 credit points only. Combination of paired courses required to meet NSW equivalence.
1. In the NSW HSC there is a small number of multi-level subject areas (English, mathematics, music and LOTE) which enable advanced students to study extension courses. Students undertaking an extension course must also study the underpinning course. Some institutions, for some courses, award selection rank adjustments for achievement in both courses. In such cases, TCE students undertaking this TCE course will be considered for the same pattern of subject adjustments as NSW HSC students undertaking the comparable course listed in this table and may be eligible to receive more than one adjustment.
VCE course results and equivalent NSW HSC course results
| VCE study score | NSW HSC Band | NSW HSC Band extension course |
|---|---|---|
| 38+ | 6 | E4 |
| 33–37 | 5 | E3 |
| 28–32 | 4 | E3 |
| 23–27 | 3 | E2 |
| 19–22 | 2 | E2 |
| 1–18 | 1 | E1 |
VCE courses comparable to NSW HSC courses
The following table shows for each VCE course the comparable course in the NSW HSC.
The information in this table is applicable for 2023 admissions only. Use it as a guide for 2024 admissions.
English subjects
| VCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
English |
English Advanced |
English (NHT) |
English Advanced |
English Language |
English Advanced |
Literature |
English Advanced |
English as a Second Language |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
English as an Additional Language |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
Mathematics
| VCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Further Mathematics |
Mathematics Standard 2 |
Further Mathematics (NHT) |
Mathematics Standard 2 |
Mathematical Methods |
Mathematics Advanced |
Mathematical Methods (CAS) CBE |
Mathematics Advanced |
Mathematical Methods (NHT) |
Mathematics Advanced |
| * | Mathematics Extension 1 (Specialist Mathematics will satisfy Mathematics Extension 1 requirement) |
Specialist Mathematics1 |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
Specialist Mathematics (NHT)1 |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
All others subjects (excluding Languages other than English)
| VCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Accounting |
Financial Services |
Accounting (NHT) |
Financial Services |
Agricultural and Horticultural Studies |
Agriculture |
Algorithmics |
Information Processes & Technology |
Ancient History |
Ancient History |
Art |
Visual Arts |
Australian History |
Modern History |
Automotive Vehicle Body (NAP) B |
Automotive (Examination) |
Biology |
Biology |
Biology NHT |
Biology |
Business (VCE VET) L |
Business Services Examination |
Business Management |
Business Studies |
Chemistry |
Chemistry |
Chemistry (NHT) |
Chemistry |
Chinese Language, Culture and Society |
Society and Culture |
Classical Societies and Cultures |
* |
Community Services |
Human Services Examination |
Creative and Digital Media (VCE VET) I |
* |
Dance |
Dance |
Dance (VCE VET) D |
* |
Design and Technology |
Design and Technology |
Drama |
Drama |
Economics |
Economics |
Engineering Studies (VCE VET) F |
Electrotechnology (Examination) |
Environmental Science |
Earth and Environmental Science |
Equine Industry (VCE VET) I |
Primary Industries |
Extended Investigations |
* |
Food Studies |
Food Technology |
Furnishing (VCE VET) F |
* |
Furnishing (VCE VET) N |
* |
Geography |
Geography |
| Health Services | Human Services Examination |
Health and Human Development |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
History: Renaissance Italy |
Modern History |
History: Revolutions |
Modern History |
Hospitality |
Hospitality (Examination: Kitchen Operations and Cookery) |
Hospitality (Kitchen Operations) |
Hospitality (Examination: Food and Beverage) |
Industry and Enterprise |
Business Studies |
Informatics |
Information Processes and Technology |
Information, Digital Media and Technology |
IDT Examination (Networking and Hardware) |
Integrated Technologies |
Electrotechnology (Examination) |
Laboratory Skills (VCE VET) C |
* |
Laboratory Skills (VCE VET) F |
* |
Laboratory Skills |
* |
Legal Studies |
Legal Studies |
Media |
* |
Music (VCE VET ) B |
Entertainment Industry (Examination) |
Music (VCE VET ) C |
Entertainment Industry (Examination) |
Music (VCE VET ) D |
Entertainment Industry (Examination) |
Music Investigation |
Music 2 |
Music Performance |
Music 2 |
Music Performance (VCE VET) H |
Entertainment Industry (Examination) |
Music Sound Production |
Entertainment Industry (Examination) |
Music Styles |
Music 2 |
Outdoor and Environmental Studies |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Philosophy |
* |
Physical Education |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Physics |
Physics |
Physics (NHT) |
Physics |
Politics: Australian Politics |
* |
Politics: Global Politics |
* |
Psychology |
* |
Religion and Society |
Studies of Religion II |
Sociology |
Society and Culture |
Software Development |
Software Design & Development |
Sport and Recreation (VCE VET) K |
* |
Studio Arts |
Visual Arts |
Systems Engineering |
Engineering Studies |
Texts and Traditions |
* |
Theatre Studies |
Drama |
Visual Communication Design |
Design and Technology |
Languages other than English
| VCE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Albanian |
* |
Arabic |
Arabic Continuers |
Armenian |
Armenian Continuers |
Auslan |
* |
Bosnian |
* |
Chin Hakha |
* |
Chinese as a second language |
Chinese Continuers |
Chinese as a first language |
Chinese and Literature |
Chinese as a first language (NHT) |
Chinese and Literature |
Chinese as a second language Advanced1 |
Chinese Extension |
Classical Greek |
Classical Greek Continuers |
Classical Hebrew |
Classical Hebrew Continuers |
Croatian |
Croatian Continuers |
Dutch |
Dutch Continuers |
Filipino |
Filipino Continuers |
French |
French Continuers |
German |
German Continuers |
Greek |
Modern Greek Continuers |
Hebrew |
Modern Hebrew Continuers |
Hindi |
Hindi Continuers |
Hungarian |
Hungarian Continuers |
Indigenous Languages of Victoria |
* |
Indonesian as a second language |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian as a first language |
Indonesian and Literature |
Italian |
Italian Continuers |
Japanese as a second language |
Japanese Continuers |
Japanese as a first language |
Japanese and Literature |
Khmer |
Khmer Continuers |
Korean as a second language |
Korean Continuers |
Korean as a first language |
Korean and Literature |
Latin |
Latin Continuers |
Macedonian |
Macedonian Continuers |
Maltese |
Maltese Continuers |
Persian |
Persian Continuers |
Polish |
Polish Continuers |
Portuguese |
Portuguese Continuers |
Punjabi |
Punjabi Continuers |
Romanian |
* |
Russian |
Russian Continuers |
Serbian |
Serbian Continuers |
Sinhala |
* |
Spanish |
Spanish Continuers |
Swedish |
Swedish Continuers |
Tamil |
Tamil Continuers |
Turkish |
Turkish Continuers |
Ukrainian |
Ukrainian Continuers |
Vietnamese |
Vietnamese Continuers |
Vietnamese as a Second Language |
Vietnamese Continuers |
Vietnamese as a First Language |
Vietnamese Continuers |
Yiddish |
* |
* There is no comparable NSW HSC course for this VCE course. Contact the relevant institution for information on that institution’s policy regarding VCE courses that have no comparable NSW HSC course.
1. In the NSW HSC there is a small number of multi-level subject areas (English, mathematics, music and LOTE) which enable advanced students to study extension courses. Students undertaking an extension course must also study the underpinning course. Some institutions, for some courses, award selection rank adjustments for achievement in both courses. In such cases, VCE students undertaking this VCE course will be considered for the same pattern of subject adjustments as NSW HSC students undertaking the comparable course listed in this table and may be eligible to receive more than one adjustment.
WACE course results and equivalent NSW HSC course results
| WACE scaled mark | NSW HSC Band | NSW HSC Band extension course |
|---|---|---|
| 77+ | 6 | E4 |
| 64–76 | 5 | E3 |
| 54–63 | 4 | E3 |
| 44-53 | 3 | E2 |
| 34–43 | 2 | E2 |
| 1–33 | 1 | E1 |
WACE courses comparable to NSW HSC courses
To be considered comparable to a NSW HSC course, your course must be an ATAR course.
The information in this table is applicable for 2023 admissions only. Use it as a guide for 2024 admissions.
English subjects
| WACE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
English |
English Advanced |
Literature |
English Advanced |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
English as an Additional Language or Dialect |
Mathematics subjects
| WACE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Mathematics Applications |
Mathematics Standard 2 |
Mathematics Methods |
Mathematics Advanced |
Mathematics Specialist |
Mathematics Extension 1 |
Mathematics Specialist |
Mathematics Extension 2 |
All others subjects (excluding Languages other than English)
| WACE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Aboriginal and Intercultural Studies |
Aboriginal Studies |
Accounting and Finance |
Financial Services (Examination) |
Animal Production Systems |
Agriculture |
Ancient History |
Ancient History |
Applied Information Technology |
Information Processes and Technology |
Aviation |
* |
Biology |
Biology |
Business Management and Enterprise |
Business Studies |
Career and Enterprise |
Business Studies |
Chemistry |
Chemistry |
Children, Family and Community |
Community and Family Studies |
Computer Science |
Information Processes and Technology |
Dance |
Dance |
Design |
Design and Technology |
Drama |
Drama |
Earth and Environmental Science |
Earth and Environmental Science |
Economics |
Economics |
Engineering Studies |
Engineering Studies |
Food Science and Technology |
Food Technology |
Geography |
Geography |
Health Studies |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Human Biology |
Biology |
Integrated Science |
Investigating Science |
Marine and Maritime Studies |
* |
Materials Design and Technology |
Design and Technology |
Media Production and Analysis |
* |
Modern History |
Modern History |
Music |
Music 2 |
Outdoor Education |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Philosophy and Ethics |
* |
Physical Educational Studies |
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education |
Physics |
Physics |
Plant Production System |
Agriculture |
Politics and Law |
* |
Psychology |
* |
Religion and Life |
Studies of Religion II |
Visual Arts |
Visual Arts |
Languages other than English
| WACE subject | NSW HSC subject |
|---|---|
Aboriginal Languages of Western Australia |
* |
Albanian |
* |
Arabic |
Arabic Continuers |
Armenian |
Armenian Continuers |
Auslan |
* |
Bosnian |
* |
Chin Hakha |
* |
Chinese: Second Language |
Chinese Continuers |
Chinese: First Language |
Chinese and Literature |
Chinese: Background Language |
Chinese in Context |
Croatian |
Croatian Continuers |
Dutch |
Dutch Continuers |
Filipino |
Filipino Continuers |
French: Background Language |
French Continuers |
French: Second Language |
French Continuers |
German: Background Language |
German Continuers |
German: Second Language |
German Continuers |
Hebrew |
Modern Hebrew Continuers |
Hindi |
* |
Hungarian |
Hungarian Continuers |
Indonesian: Second language |
Indonesian Continuers |
Indonesian: First Language |
Indonesian and Literature |
Indonesian: Background Language |
Indonesian in Context |
Italian: Background Language |
Italian Continuers |
Italian: Second Language |
Italian Continuers |
Japanese: Second Language |
Japanese Continuers |
Japanese: First Language |
Japanese and Literature |
Japanese: Background Language |
Japanese in Context |
Karen |
* |
Khmer |
Khmer Continuers |
Korean: Background Language |
Korean in Context |
Macedonian |
Macedonian Continuers |
Malay: Background Speakers |
Malay Background Speakers |
Maltese |
Maltese Continuers |
Modern Greek |
Modern Greek Continuers |
| Persian | Persian Continuers |
Persian: Background Speakers |
Persian Background Speakers |
Polish |
Polish Continuers |
Portuguese |
Portuguese Continuers |
Punjabi |
Punjabi Continuers |
Romanian |
* |
Russian |
Russian Continuers |
Serbian |
Serbian Continuers |
Sinhala |
* |
Spanish |
Spanish Continuers |
Swedish |
Swedish Continuers |
Tamil |
Tamil Continuers |
Turkish |
Turkish Continuers |
Ukrainian |
Ukrainian Continuers |
Vietnamese |
Vietnamese Continuers |
Yiddish |
* |
* There is no comparable NSW HSC course for this WACE course. Contact the relevant institution for information on that institution’s policy regarding WACE courses that have no comparable NSW HSC course.
1. In the NSW HSC there is a small number of multi-level subject areas (English, mathematics, music and LOTE) which enable advanced students to study extension courses. Students undertaking an extension course must also study the underpinning course. Some institutions, for some courses, award selection rank adjustments for achievement in both courses. In such cases, WACE students undertaking this WACE course will be considered for the same pattern of subject adjustments as NSW HSC students undertaking the comparable course listed in this table and may be eligible to receive more than one adjustment.
Non-standard Year 12 students
Non-standard Year 12 programs of study include those completed through:
- Australian Christian Education
- Rudolph Steiner Education
- home schooling
- the Queensland Senior External Examination.
UAC assesses the Queensland Senior External Examination. For all other non-standard Year 12 studies to be assessable by UAC, you must provide proof of completion of an accredited Year 12 program of study and have sat the American Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) (results from which will be assessed by UAC).
UAC will also assess results from the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Contact the admissions offices of the institutions you are applying to for information on acceptance of STAT and on how they will consider your non-standard Year 12 studies. Find out more about STAT at stat.acer.edu.au.