Are you dreaming of a career that requires further study? Do you enjoy learning and strive to achieve your best academically? Are you interested in applying to university? Stand out to future employers and higher education institutions by studying on the ATAR Pathway!
These courses will be examined by the Schools Curriculum and Standards Authority and contribute to the achievement of an ATAR. Students must sit the end of course ATAR examination in at least four courses to achieve an ATAR. The ATAR pathway leads to university entrance based on an ATAR score.
Students may choose to do less than four ATAR courses and if they do so, will also be required to sit the end of course examinations. Sevenoaks encourages students to take on the challenge of these courses as many have direct links to skills required for apprenticeships and future training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ATAR?
An ATAR is a rank that ranges from zero to 99.95. For example, if you achieve an ATAR of 70 this means you have performed as well as or better than 70% of Year 12 students in WA. A specific ATAR is required to gain direct entry to university courses.
Are there requirements to achieve an ATAR?
Yes. Students seeking to achieve an ATAR need to complete a minimum of four Year 12 ATAR courses AND sit the external examinations/assessments at the end of Year 12. Although usually undertaken to access university studies, ATAR courses are also excellent preparation for a range of post-school pathways.
What are the minimum ATAR requirements and pre-requisites?
Before course selection you should research potential future courses and take note of the minimum ATAR required. It is recommended that you select the pre-requisite ATAR courses for university. For example, a Bachelor of Engineering degree at Curtin University requires a minimum ATAR of 80, including a prerequisite of Mathematics Methods ATAR and at least one of the following courses: Physics ATAR, Chemistry ATAR or Engineering Studies ATAR.
In Year 11 you will select six courses, including a minimum of four ATAR courses. You may select one or two general courses and/or a certificate.
In Year 12, you will continue to the Year 12 equivalent of your chosen six courses.
What ATAR Courses are offered at Sevenoaks?
You must select a minimum of four ATAR courses, including at least one course from List A and one from List B.
List A
- English or English as an Additional Language/ Dialect (compulsory)
- Geography
- Modern History
List B
- Chemistry
- Human Biology
- Mathematics Applications
- Mathematics Methods
- Physics
- Psychology
These can be combined with any general course or certificate in an area of personal interest.
Students should actively research their post-school pathway before selecting courses for Year 11 and 12.
How do I found out more about University courses?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information about individual University degrees, please visit the respective University’s website:
Curtin University – www.curtin.edu.au
Edith Cowan University – www.ecu.edu.au
Murdoch University – www.murdoch.edu.au
“I am interested in studying biomedical science and ultimately becoming a doctor. My particular field of study requires specialised knowledge and prerequisite subjects to be attained in Year 11 and 12 in order to have a more direct access to this university course. I really enjoy the challenging nature of my ATAR classes and appreciate how supportive my teachers are in helping me to achieve my goal.”
– Alison, Year 12 Student