What to do if you are disappointed with your ATAR, from a top university expert

Students who fear low ATAR scores have closed doors discover the complete opposite, according to one of Queensland's leading education experts.

Vice-Chancellor, University of Southern Queensland, Professor Karen Nelson

As Queensland’s Year 12 graduates await their ATAR on 18 December, many are feeling the weight of a single number. I want to offer reassurance: your ATAR does not determine your future.

An ATAR reflects achievement within the context of a student’s circumstances – including the subjects available, personal responsibilities, work commitments, and where a student lives and studies. It is one indicator, not a verdict on potential.

What truly shapes success at university and in life are qualities that no ranking captures: persistence, curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning.

At the University of Southern Queensland, we see these attributes demonstrated every year by students who enter through a range of different pathways and go on to thrive.

Pathways and practical options

There are many ways to begin university study. Programs such as our free UniReady pathway help students build academic confidence quickly. Vocational qualifications, including TAFE Diplomas, also provide strong entry routes and recognised credit.

UniSQ provides guaranteed TAFE Queensland pathways, including dual QTAC offers that take students from a TAFE Diploma directly into a UniSQ bachelor degree with confirmed credit. Articulation agreements provide up to a year of credit for Diplomas and more for Advanced Diplomas or Associate Degrees, giving students a clear, flexible route into UniSQ – either straight after TAFE or when they’re ready.

All of these pathways lead to the same destination: a university qualification and a meaningful career. The starting point simply differs.

More than one opportunity

Your ATAR is one moment in a longer process. QTAC releases several offer rounds throughout December and January, providing multiple opportunities to adjust preferences or explore alternative entry pathways. The key is to remain engaged and seek advice early.

Next steps

• Review your QTAC preferences and include pathway options beneath your first-choice course.
• Check whether adjustment factors – such as hardship, regional location, or specific Year 12 subjects – may lift your selection rank.
• Seek guidance from admissions teams, school counsellors, or QTAC to clarify your options.
• Remember that offers continue into January; there is more than one path forward.

The bigger picture

Each year, students who once feared their ATAR had closed doors discover the opposite. Many tell us their alternate pathway strengthened their confidence and independence, and their academic performance is often comparable to those who entered with higher ATARs.

So, to every student awaiting your result: take pride in what you have achieved. Enjoy time with family and friends, and know that your ATAR is a step on the journey – not its conclusion.

For clear information on pathways, entry options, and the support available to future students, visit unisq.edu.au/pathways.

Professor Karen Nelson is the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland.

Originally published as What to do if you are disappointed with your ATAR, from a top university expert