High school students

Yes, you can receive a university offer before your final Year 12 exams through UniSQ Early Entry. An early offer allows you to secure a place in your preferred degree based on your school grades, recommendations or other achievements rather than waiting for your final ATAR. This can take pressure off your end of year exams and give you confidence heading into your final months of school.

UniSQ Early Entry is designed to recognise your potential and provide certainty sooner. Depending on the pathway, your application may consider your Year 12 progress, internal school assessments or other evidence that shows you are ready for university level study. You will still need to complete Year 12, but your place can be confirmed before final results are released.

If you do not get the ATAR you need, you still have several pathways to explore. A lower ATAR does not close the door on your study goals, and UniSQ has options designed to help you start your degree through supported entry routes.

You can use a pathway program such as UniSQ Ready or UniPrep to build your academic skills and confidence before moving into your chosen degree. These programs are designed for students who want an alternative entry route or who prefer extra preparation before starting university level study. You can also use completed TAFE or VET qualifications, previous higher education study or relevant work and life experience to meet entry requirements without relying on your ATAR.

Yes, you can study university subjects while you are still in high school through UniSQ Head Start. This program allows motivated Year 10, 11 and 12 students to experience university level study, gain credit toward a future UniSQ degree and strengthen their confidence before formally starting uni.

Head Start subjects are taken online and fit alongside your school timetable, making it easier to balance both commitments. Completed subjects may also contribute to your QCE points, depending on your year level and the subjects you choose. This gives you a chance to explore areas of interest early and build a strong foundation for future study.

Adjustment factors at UniSQ work by increasing your selection rank, which can improve your chances of receiving an offer for your preferred degree. These adjustments are sometimes called ATAR bonus points, but they do not change your actual ATAR. Instead, they adjust the rank used when assessing your application.

UniSQ offers selection rank adjustments for several circumstances, such as strong results in certain school subjects, living in a regional area or experiencing situations that may have affected your studies. These adjustments are added automatically when you apply through the standard admissions process, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

University costs in Australia vary depending on your chosen degree, the number of subjects you study each year and your student funding eligibility. Most UniSQ undergraduate degrees offer Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP), which means the Government pays a portion of your fees, helping to reduce the overall cost of university. For further details, take a look at the fee information for your chosen degree, so you can estimate your study expenses.

You do not need to pay your fees upfront if you are eligible for a HECS HELP loan. This loan allows you to defer your student contribution amount and repay it later through the tax system once your income reaches the repayment threshold. Many students choose this option so they can start their studies without immediate financial pressure.

UniSQ also offers scholarships specifically for school leavers, including a range of options designed to support Year 12 students as they transition into university. These scholarships recognise academic achievement, community involvement, leadership and personal circumstances, making them accessible to a wide variety of students.

High school and university feel quite different, and the shift can be exciting as well as challenging. In high school your learning is structured around a set timetable, smaller classes and close day to day guidance from teachers. At university you have much more independence. You choose your courses, manage your schedule and take responsibility for keeping up with readings, assessments and classes.

The workload at university can also feel different. You may have fewer contact hours than in high school, but each subject expects more independent study outside class. This includes reading, preparing for tutorials, completing assignments and working on longer projects. Many students find that good planning and time management make a big difference as they settle into uni life.

University also offers greater freedom in how you learn. You can study online or on -campus, join clubs and activities, connect with people from different backgrounds and explore subjects that genuinely interest you. While the transition from high school vs university can take some adjustment, UniSQ provides support services to help you develop strong study habits and feel confident as you settle into your new routine.