Griffith University explains the pathways to your degree if you miss out
High school students can boost their university selection rank by up to several points through adjustment factors that many don't know exist.
High school students are being encouraged to consider a range of options that can optimise their university application and help them find a place on their ideal degree course.
Griffith University future students and strategic communications vice-president Phillip Stork said high school results were important but not the only way to determine how successful someone would be at university.
“Griffith recognises that students are more than their ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank), and our adjustment factors, guaranteed admissions scheme and VET (Vocational Education and Training) pathways reflect our values and are designed to ensure more people get the opportunity to reach their potential,” he said.
“Adjustment factors can make a significant difference in some of our highly competitive degrees.
“If students think they are likely to get an ATAR just below the published cut-off, we suggest they look at our adjustment factor calculator – the bonus ranks could make the difference and see them get offered a place in their dream degree.
“We consider all studies they have undertaken during their senior schooling as we look for the study path that provides the highest rank.
“We offer subject adjustments in recognition of the work students have done in year 12 that we know will really set them up for success at university.”
Students can also get personal advice online from study advisers at Griffith’s Explore Your Options event between December 18 and 23.
Griffith bachelor of occupational therapy (honours) student Tiahna Maloberti said she really admired Griffith’s culture.
“I honestly wasn’t sure my ATAR was going to be high enough to get into Griffith, and it wouldn’t have been without my adjustment factors,” she said.
“Getting into Griffith was an amazing feeling, and I remember exploring everything Griffith offered, including their clubs and societies.
“The greatest thing about occupational therapy is that there are so many different paths available, and Griffith has been amazing in providing placements across multiple specialties.”
Tiahna advised students in year 12 not to give up hope on getting to their dream university.
“Don’t underestimate how much difference adjustment factors can make,” she said.
Griffith bachelor of physiotherapy (honours) student Katelyn Brooks said in high school, she was fortunate to have lots of support for her application.
“Choosing physio was a no-brainer,” she said.
“I’ve always wanted to work in the health field and with physio’s combination of making a positive impact on people’s lives, lifelong learning, and working as a team, I felt that it was a perfect fit for me.”
Katelyn used the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) for her QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre) application and after a year studying exercise physiology, reapplied for physiotherapy using Upgrading by University Studies, which allowed her to improve her selection rank with completed university-level study.
“Your ATAR doesn’t define you,” she said.
“If you are truly passionate about what you want to do, you will find a way to get you there.”
GUIDE TO UNI TERMS
QTAC application preferencing guide:
One and two: Desired courses a student wants to study the most; three and four: Back-up courses a student wants to study; five and six: Pathway courses to help a student upgrade to the course they want.
What’s an adjustment factor?
These are a way for universities and tertiary institutions to account for year 12 students’ academic achievements and personal circumstances. They don’t change an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) but act like a one-time offer to increase selection rank to help them get into their degree of choice. They only apply for the year after a student finishes year 12.
What’s the difference between a prerequisite and assumed knowledge?
Prerequisites are subjects a teen must have studied as a condition of entry. Assumed knowledge is knowledge a teen is expected to have gained through school. Most degrees at Griffith University only have assumed knowledge. If a teen doesn’t meet the prerequisites for a degree or needs extra support, Griffith Bridging English and Foundations of Academic Writing are offered.
What’s the Guaranteed Admission Scheme?
The university gives increased opportunities and greater certainty about future study choices by offering guaranteed admission options including schemes for teenagers who attain an ATAR of 80+, an IB (International Baccalaureate) of 28+ or a VET (Vocational Education and Training) qualification.
For more information, visit: griffith.edu.au/study/adjustment-calculator
