How To Apply
Embarking on your educational journey is an exciting step toward your future, and QTAC is here to help. Whether you’re starting university, changing careers, or expanding your skills, we guide you through the application process.
How To Apply
How to apply
Admissions Criteria
Our Admissions Criteria focus on eligibility and merit. Eligibility checks if you meet the basics, while merit looks at your academic and extracurricular achievements. This helps us match you with the best courses, ensuring you are ready for your next challenge.
Eligibility
Eligibility refers to the minimum criteria required to apply for a course as set by the institution. Each institution sets its own admission criteria, which apply to every applicant for every course offered.
These criteria can vary between institutions but commonly include:
- English language proficiency
- Course quota (the estimated number of places available in a course)
- Exclusion (whether you have previously been excluded from an institution; this might affect your application)
- Age requirements
- Prerequisites
Some courses require additional admission criteria like personal statements, questionnaires, portfolios, auditions, interviews, or tests, which may supplement or replace academic qualifications.
Institutions offer alternative pathways for applicants who don’t meet standard requirements. For details, visit the individual institution pages.
Competing for a place in Order of Merit
QTAC places all competing applicants in ‘order of merit’. This means applicants with the highest ATAR/selection rank are in the first offer, then applicants with the next highest ATAR/selection rank second etc.
By going down the ‘order of merit’, applicants receive offers until all the places are filled. There is a minimum selection threshold. This is the lowest ATAR/selection rank that can earn an offer.
The minimum selection threshold:
- is not set in advance
- can serve as a guide for future cut-offs
- typically remains stable but can change
- may vary across semesters and offer rounds within the same semester
- reflects the course’s supply and demand (number of places, number of applicants, and applicant quality). It is not an indicator of course quality.
Eligibility
Common Eligibility Criteria
English Language Proficiency
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
To ensure you are ready for tertiary study, you will need to show adequate ability in using English.
You can demonstrate your English Proficiency by providing proof of your previous studies or qualifications, or padding a suitable English language test and send QTAC your results.
Please note this information is only for domestic applicants applying for courses through QTAC. For any international applicants or any applications for a direct-entry institution, please contact the relevant institution’s international student office for their English language requirements.
Important Note: You will need to take the academic version, not the general test.
English Language Proficiency is the minimal requirement considered for any courses available through QTAC. This means you will need to demonstrate your ability to speak, read, write and comprehend English at a level suitable for any courses you intend to study.
Some courses, like education and nursing, have special requirements. They may need you to have finished your secondary studies or other qualifications in a specific country and in English. Please check the Institution requirements below for more details.
Where indicated, an institution will stipulate which particular types of study must be from an approved country. To determine which countries are approved, you will need to contact the institution directly.
English Language Proficiency Tests
You can demonstrate your English Proficiency by:
- Providing proof of your previous studies or qualifications, or
- Pass a suitable English language test (see the tests listed with links) and send QTAC your results.
Important Note: You will need to take the academic version, not the general test.
IELTS – International English Language Proficiency Testing System
ISLPR – International Second Language Proficiency Ratings
OET – Occupational English Test
Cambridge Assessment English – C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency
STAT – Special Tertiary Admissions Test
PTE – Pearson Test of English
TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
IELTS
International English Language Proficiency Testing System
ISLPR
International Second Language Proficiency Ratings
OET
Occupational English Test
Cambridge Assessment English
C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency
STAT
Special Tertiary Admissions Test
PTE
Pearson Test of English
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language
Important Note: You will need to take the academic version, not the general test.
Course quota
A course quota is the number of places available in a course.
This represents the total number of students who can be admitted to a particular program each year. This quota helps ensure that all students receive the necessary resources and support for a quality education.
Exclusions
If you have been previously excluded from an institution, this may affect your eligibility when applying for particular courses.
Each application is assessed individually, and previous exclusions may be considered in the evaluation process. It’s important to provide all relevant details about your academic history to ensure we have a complete understanding of your background.
Age requirements
In Australian tertiary course applications, meeting the institution’s age requirements is important.
These requirements ensure that applicants fall within the specified age range accepted by the institution for admission purposes.
Prerequisites
A prerequisite for your application may involve completing any required subjects or qualifications specified by the institution before you apply for the course.
These prerequisites need to be fulfilled prior to submitting your application for your chosen course and included in your application
Additional Elements
Some courses will require you to submit extra elements to your application.
Examples of these types of courses are Health & Welfare, Education and Creative & Performing Arts
Additional elements required for your application may be personal statements, questionnaires, portfolios, auditions, interviews, or tests. These elements can be considered instead of, or along with, your academic qualifications – please contact the institution for further information.
Read More about extra elements to include in your application
Eligibility Circumstances
You are classified as a current Year 12 student until the March following your graduation.
Current Year 12 students
Current Year 12 students are considered for an offer based on their ATAR/Selection Rank (or other recognised qualifications undertaken while at school).
Current International Baccalaureate (IB) students are assigned a selection rank based on the score from the completed IB Diploma.
Current New Zealand NCEA Level 3 students completing the New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 3 will have an Interstate Transfer Index (ITI) calculated by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and provided to QTAC
Current Non-standard Year 12 students learning through programs of study including Australian Christian Education, Steiner Education and home schooling will need to contact QTAC on 1300 467 822 or the relevant institution for more information on how your education will be assessed. You must provide proof of completion of an accredited Year 12 program of study and official results from the US Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Current Non-standard Year 12 students are classified as “All Other Applicants” when lodging a QTAC application.
Current Queensland Senior External Examination students are assigned a selection rank based on results from the Queensland External Senior Exam subjects. Refer to Queensland Senior External Examination or contact QTAC for more information.
Other recognised qualifications completed at school, such as competency-based and graded AQF Certificates III and IV (completed), diplomas, higher education study, and some creative arts qualifications (in music, dance, and speech), may also be assigned a selection rank. For more information, contact QTAC or the relevant institution.
You also need to meet the relevant subject prerequisites for the course you are applying for. These can be satisfied by successfully completing senior secondary subjects (or equivalent).
I graduated Year 12 before 2023
Year 12 results (OP/ATAR/selection rank) do not expire once you have left school. These may be taken into consideration if you’ve acquired additional qualifications, including other recognised qualifications you may have completed either during your school tenure or afterwards.
Some examples of formal qualifications are:
- Senior External Examination results
- Higher education study
- VET study like completed competency-based
- Graded AQF certificates III and IV (completed)
- Diplomas, bridging and enabling courses.
Also taken into consideration are other post-schooling professional and paraprofessional qualifications which may include creative arts, language and civil aviation qualifications, professional registrations and defence force service. You may also use other admission pathways such as employment experience and the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Please note age restrictions apply.
Each institution sets its own entry criteria. Your qualifications will be considered for entry depending on the institution and/or course you are applying to.
For more information, contact QTAC or the relevant institution.
Also taken into consideration are other post-schooling professional and paraprofessional qualifications which may include creative arts, language and civil aviation qualifications, professional registrations and defence force service.
You may also use other admission pathways such as employment experience and the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Please note age restrictions apply.
I have completed/partially completed tertiary study
Institutions may take into consideration any completed or partially completed higher education study (a tertiary course), along with any other qualifications you have for entry. Each institution sets its own entry criteria, therefore it depends on the institution and/or which course you’re applying for as to which qualifications are considered for entry.
It’s best to complete an application through QTAC if you have completed or partially completed higher education/tertiary study and wish to transfer to another course at a different institution. If you want to transfer to another course at your current institution, your institution will advise if your application needs to go through QTAC.
Advanced Standing/Academic Achievement
Your previous study could qualify towards advanced standing/academic credit (please note: applications for advanced standing/academic credit are made directly to the institution). Most courses have subject prerequisites. Some of these can be achieved in Senior Secondary subjects (or equivalent). Other courses have further selection criteria.
I have Vocational Educational and Training (VET) Study
A completed VET study at AQF certificate III level or higher can be considered by your preferred institution along with any other qualifications you may have. The institution sets what qualifications come into consideration for entry criteria.
This consideration depends on the course you’re applying for, so we suggest reaching out to the institution you’re interested in.
You must also include with your application any further selection criteria associated with the course you are applying for, as well as the subject prerequisites. See here for more information.
I have employment/life experience
If you are already in the workforce, have a career goal or are considering further study in your field, applying through QTAC can offer you many pathways, even if it’s been a while since you’ve worn your school uniform. Life experience can significantly enhance your application with your selection rank taking into account more than just your high school accomplishments. You can apply to any of our 17 partner institutions, planning for either direct or pathway entries into your chosen course. QTAC uses a detailed method to create a QTAC Selection Rank, offering several ways to work towards your career achievements. Besides your high school grades, your qualifications and experience can count towards meeting entry requirements. Find out more here.
Depending on the course you’re aiming for, post-secondary professional and paraprofessional qualifications and services can all add to your selection ranking, such as:
- Certain qualifications in creative arts, language, and civil aviation
- Memberships in professional associations that require qualifying exams
- Experience in police, defence, and emergency services.
I took a different path instead of finishing school
Most institutions offer alternatives to the traditional Senior Secondary route, helping you work towards your desired course. These pathways support and prepare you for studying at a degree level. They often include non-degree options like foundation studies, preparatory courses, and certificate, diploma, or associate degree programs.
Read more about Pathways.
I have an overseas qualification
For any applicants with overseas qualifications, you can apply through QTAC if you are:
- an Australian citizen
- an Australian permanent resident
- an Australian permanent visa holder (201 or 202)
- or a New Zealand citizen.
In addition to the above, you need to contact the relevant institution to ensure your eligibility for admission via QTAC.
If you successfully complete a pathway course, the institution may guarantee entry into a specific degree course. Otherwise, you can use your non-degree studies to apply and compete for admission to other degree courses. You could also receive credit for some of the studies you completed in your non-degree course. Read More about Upgrading Pathways
With your application, you will need to include any further selection criteria associated with the course you are applying for, as well as the subject prerequisites. Find out more information on Course Search.
Merit
Merit is taking into account eligible qualifications and achievements to determine academic ability.
This includes academic results like ATAR, relevant work experience, prior learning, and other criteria specific to the course.
ATAR and Selection Ranks
If you complete Year 12 in Queensland in 2024 and are eligible for an ATAR, your ATAR will be taken into account when QTAC calculates your selection rank. You’ll receive your ATAR on 13 December 2024
Receiving offers without ATAR/selection rank
- you meet the course prerequisites and institution admission rules, and
- you don’t or won’t get an offer in a higher preference. If these circumstances apply, you’ll receive an offer the next time the course is available.
Course Offers with only your ATAR/Selection Rank
You can get into some courses with only an ATAR or selection rank if:
- you meet the minimum ATAR/selection rank
- you meet the course prerequisites and institution admission rules, and
- you don’t/won’t get an offer in a higher preference.
If these circumstances apply, you will receive an offer the next time the course is offered.
Securing Your Preferred Course with an Eligible ATAR/Selection Rank
If your ATAR/selection rank does not meet the minimum to compete for a place:
We’ll inform you and review your next preference to potentially offer you a place in that course. The sooner we notify you about courses you’re not eligible for, the sooner you can adjust your preferences.
If your ATAR/selection rank meets the minimum to compete for a place:
We’ll inform you if you meet the course requirements and the university’s admission criteria. If your application is highly competitive and you don’t receive an offer for a higher preference, you might receive an early offer for your chosen course. If you don’t get an early offer, we’ll wait until the main offer round for the course so you can compete for a spot.
This includes academic results like ATAR, relevant work experience, prior learning, and other criteria specific to the course.
If you complete Year 12 in Queensland in 2024 and are eligible for an ATAR, it will be calculated by QTAC. You’ll receive it on the 13 December 2024.
For all other applicants, selection rank is based on your assessable qualifiers.
Order of Merit
QTAC places all applicants competing for a place in a course in ‘order of merit’. This means applicants with the highest ATAR/selection rank are places in the first offer round, then applicants with the next best ATAR/selection rank move into the second round of offers, and so on.
The minimum selection threshold:
• is not set beforehand
• can be used as a guide (only) to indicate possible future cut-offs.
• do not vary much year to year, but occasionally will have adjustments
• adjustments can change across semesters and between offer rounds for the same semester
• reflects supply and demand for a course (that is, the number of places in the course, the number of applicants for the course and the quality of those applicants). This does not indicate the quality of the course.
By going down the ‘order of merit’, applicants receive offers until all the places are filled. There is a minimum selection threshold. This is the lowest ATAR/selection rank that can earn an offer.
You can view previous year’s course information on the Course Search page to view year on year changes in entry requirements to courses.
Courses not assessed by QTAC
• Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Certificates I and II
• Statements of attainment
• courses delivered by Australian private providers that are not accredited. Only accredited courses under the AQF, or by the relevant state/territory accreditation authority, will be taken into account. Qualifications undertaken with private providers will not be assessed unless there is proof of accreditation provided for the particular course.
• short courses run by a university (eg Project Management Essentials)
• other short courses such as first aid certificates.
English subject prerequisite
To gain entry to most courses, a requirement is to have achieved a certain level in specific Year 12 subjects.
Not all courses have subject prerequisites, so to ensure you are most prepared to submit the best application, it’s recommended to check the institution’s policies and prerequisites for your chosen course.
In addition to, or instead of subject prerequisites, some courses have assumed knowledge and/or recommended study.
If a course has assumed knowledge or recommended study, it means the institution assumes you have subject knowledge or recommends that you study it.
If you do not have the assumed knowledge or recommended study, you can still get into the course, but you might have difficulty with your studies.
English is the most common subject prerequisite. If a course has an English subject prerequisite, you can find it listed in its course entry as ‘English, Literature, English and Literature Extension or English as an Additional Language (Units 3 and 4, C)’. This means you must study one of these Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) General English subjects (or equivalent) and attain a minimum Grade of ‘C ‘or better in Units 3 and 4 (typically studied in Year 12).
How to meet the English subject prerequisite
If you didn’t study a General English subject to Year 12 or haven’t yet achieved a pass in this subject, you can meet this requirement in other ways, depending on the policy of the institution you want to study at.
The institution policy tables below are a guide to meeting the English subject prerequisite for each institution and sometimes for individual courses. This is a summary only. If you believe you meet the English subject prerequisite through something not listed here, you should check with the institution.
English subject prerequisite and English language proficiency
The English subject prerequisite and English language proficiency are different things. The English subject prerequisite is the particular subject you study in Years 11 and 12.
English language proficiency is your ability to speak, write, read, and comprehend English.
Institution policies – 2023/2024 admissions
Note: Where an age requirement is listed you must be this age by a certain date. Refer to the Institution age requirement dates.
Key
- QCAA – Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority
- GPA – Grade Point Average
- Passing GPA/Pass – an overall Grade Point Average of 4 or higher (on a 7-point scale where 4 = pass)
- AQF – Australian Qualifications Framework
- TBC – to be confirmed
Documentation
Submitting your documents
Submitting documents for your QTAC application? We only ask for and accept the types of documents that our institutions need and recognise. Have a look at the list of accepted documentation below to make sure you’re all set for your QTAC application.
Make sure to provide the right documents as early as possible to keep your application process running smoothly. Our assessment team reviews and verifies your documents for each course you’ve listed in your preferences that may need them. This involves careful cross-checking and can be quite time-intensive. Remember, to be considered for an offer, you must not have any Outstanding Documents for the course(s) you wish to obtain an offer for.
We reserve the right to request original documents and/or certified copies if needed. If your documentation contains false, incorrect, or misleading information, your application may be cancelled, fees may not be refunded, and you could be excluded from applying to QTAC for up to two years.
How to submit your documents
The fastest way to submit your documents is through our QTAC Application Portal. Log in and upload your documents directly under Outstanding Documents. Ensure your files are below 15MB.
Having trouble uploading your documents?
The email address documents@qtac.edu.au is for receipt of submitted documents only and you cannot correspond to QTAC staff through there. For general business and after-hours enquiries or to correspond via email please use the contact page form.
If the qualification you need to provide isn’t listed in Outstanding Documents or you encounter issues uploading, you can:
- Email a photocopy of your documents to documents@qtac.edu.au. Include your full name and QTAC application number in the email subject line.
- Post your documents, including your full name and QTAC application number to PO Box 1331, Milton, QLD, 4064, Australia.
- Call us on 1300 467 822 for further assistance.
Please note that post is our slowest method for submitting documentation and you may miss your document due date if you have not allowed ample time for delays in postage. We cannot return your mail, please only post photocopies, not original documents.
Documentation due dates
Ensure we receive your documentation by the due date so we can assess it in time. Visit Key dates and fees for documentation due dates.
Read more - about supplying & removing documentation
Removing Employment Documentation from your QTAC Application
We cannot delete your information from your application. We can take your instruction on disregarding it, for any reason you see fit.
Please note that a notification may still show within your application; prompting you to supply documentation, however, you do not need to respond to it.
To advise QTAC that you want your Employment Documentation disregarded, you can do one or both of the following:
- Call us on 1300 467 822 and ask us to ensure it is disregarded
- Upload a Word doc or PDF in lieu of your documentation, which reads, “Please disregard, I won’t be supplying documentation,” and send a copy of this (with confirmation it has been loaded to your QTAC Application) to documents@qtac.edu.au
Existing qualification Documentation
Existing qualifications documentation required
The documentation required depends on the type of qualification/s or official tests undertaken. Select a qualification below for details.
Please note: Where academic transcripts are referred to below, the official academic transcript is required. Statements of attainment, results slips and award elements documents are not sufficient.
Senior Studies/Year 12
Please include your academic transcript with details of all subjects taken, results (including any fails), a key to the grading system, the name of the award, and proof of award or completion if applicable.
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
If you sat the test before 1996 and not through QTAC, a copy of your official statement of test results.
If you sat the test from 1996, through QTAC, we will obtain your results for you.
English language proficiency tests
Your official statement of test results.
Preparation programs and bridging studies
Academic transcript showing all subjects undertaken, results (including fails), key to the grading system, name of award and proof of award/completion if applicable.
Certificates
Academic transcript showing all subjects undertaken, results (including fails), key to the grading system, name of award and proof of award/completion if applicable. Do not include certificates I or II, incomplete certificates III and IV, or courses shorter than 180 hours, as these cannot be assessed.
Tertiary
Academic transcript showing all subjects undertaken, results (including fails), key to the grading system, name of award, degree certificate and proof of award/completion if applicable.
Nursing or Health Care Qualifications
Australian nursing/health care qualifications achieved through hospital based or registration body training and/or any overseas nursing/health qualifications:
- Certificate of registration from relevant governing body. Note: Your annual nursing licence is not sufficient.
Australian nursing/health care qualifications achieved as academic qualifications (AQF qualification eg certificate III, diploma, etc):
- Academic transcript showing all subjects undertaken, results (including fails), key to the grading system, name of award and proof of award/completion from your registered training provider.
Music, Dance, Speech, Drama
Completion certificate. Note: for AMEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) grade 7 or 8 qualifications a theory certificate may also be required. Phone us on 1300 467 822 for more information.
Language qualifications
An Official award completion certificate is required for any language qualifications which may include translating and interpreting or language proficiency, or a membership of professional associations for which qualifying examinations were undertaken.
Fire or Ambulance Service
Fire or ambulance service: A letter or certificate of service from your supervisor/personnel officer/commanding officer giving length of service and occupation.
Defence Forces
Defence forces documentation needs to identify rank(s) achieved, division(s) worked in and length and dates of services for each rank. Note: Certificate of Enlistment is not sufficient.
Please provide one of the following:
- Full PMKeyS statement containing a complete service record which is available to serving members of the Armed Forces. The statement contains current rank, date of enlistment, length of service, current occupation, posting and promotion history. (You can blank out any personal information like home address and next of kin, before submitting a copy of the document.)
- A letter from your supervisor/personnel officer/commanding officer giving rank, length of service, and, if possible, occupation.
- Certificate of Service which states rank on discharge and dates of service.
Police Services
Certificate of Service that states rank on discharge and dates of service.
Marchant Marine
Certificate of competency as issued by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)
Civil aviation, commercial pilots licence
Licence certificate.
Employment experience Documentation
Employment experience documentation required
When applying to QTAC, it’s important to understand the value and limitations of using employment experience as part of your application. Employment experience can be a valuable asset in your application, but it should only be used if it is the most likely avenue to you being given a suitable selection rank. If you have other forms of qualifications, these will potentially supersede employment documentation. Call us on 1300 467 822 for further assistance or information.
Employment experience documentation
If you decide to use employment experience as part of your application, you must substantiate it with copies of statements from your employers. Each employer’s statement must include all of the following details. Statements missing any of these details cannot be assessed:
- Official Company Letterhead: The statement must be written on the official letterhead of the company.
- Date: The date the statement was written.
- Job Title: Your job title during the period of employment.
- Duties Performed: A description of the duties you performed.
- Type of Employment: Specify whether the employment was full-time, part-time, or casual, along with the hours per week or total hours for the period of employment.
- Employment Period: Start date (mm/yyyy) and end date (mm/yyyy) of service, or a statement that you are still employed, if applicable.
- Authority and Signature: The position and signature of your employer or the person authorised by your employer to write the statement (e.g., Human Resources Officer). If multiple roles have been held within the same organisation, the start and end dates for each role must be noted.
Please note that personal resumes, curricula vitae, group certificates, pay slips, tax returns, separation certificates, employment contracts, or similar documents are not sufficient. Duties statements or job descriptions alone are also insufficient; this information must be stated in the letters.
You can find a sample of the required statement from your employer(s) here.
Self-employment experience documentation
If you have been self-employed, your self-employment must be substantiated by statements from your accountant, solicitor, or tax agent. Each statement must include all the details listed below. Statements missing any of these details cannot be assessed:
- Official Letterhead: The statement must be written on the official letterhead of your accountant, solicitor, or tax agent.
- Date: The date the statement was written.
- Type of Business: The type of business you conduct(ed).
- Job Title: Your job title during the period of self-employment.
- Duties Performed: A description of the duties you performed.
- Employment Period: Start date (mm/yyyy) and end date (mm/yyyy) of service, or a statement that you are still self-employed, if applicable.
- Type of Employment: Specify whether the self-employment was full-time, part-time, or casual, along with the hours per week or total hours for the period of employment.
- Service Duration: Length of time the accountant, solicitor, or tax agent has been of service to you and the relevant business.
- Authority and Signature: The position and signature of your accountant, solicitor, or tax agent.
Please note that personal resumes, curricula vitae, group certificates, pay slips, tax returns, separation certificates, employment contracts, or similar documents are not sufficient. Duties statements or job descriptions alone are also insufficient; this information must be stated in the letters.
You can find a sample of the required statement from your accountant, solicitor, or tax agent here.
Trades and traineeship documentation
This category of employment experience is only suitable for use by qualified tradespersons who undertook a paid certifide qualfication and has commenced paid work in their trade. This not suitable for somoene who has begun, but not yet completed their trade qualification or who has not yet commenced employment within their trade.
Australian trade or traineeship completed since introduction of Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) in 1995:
- Academic transcript showing all subjects undertaken, results (including fails), key to the grading system, name of award and proof of award/completion from your registered training provider.
Australian trade and traineeship completed prior to introduction of Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) in 1995:
- Certificate showing trade or traineeship completion from the relevant government or issuing body.
Overseas trade or traineeship:
- Certificate of trade or traineeship completion from relevant government or issuing body, and documents for any associated academic qualification including academic transcript showing all subjects undertaken, results (including fails), key to the grading system, name of award and proof of award/completion.
Educational Access Scheme (EAS) Documents
Documentation required for EAS depends on the EAS category you apply under.
For most categories, you must complete the relevant Educational Access Scheme cover sheet and attach supporting documentation.
Visit Educational Access Scheme for specific category documentation requirements.
Preferences
What are Preferences?
Your preferences are your wish list that we use in the context of your QTAC application. Our system lines up your preferences in light of your ATAR and selection rank to ensure your best chance for applying to your ideal tertiary education course.
If you fill in more options you’re more likely to obtain an offer.
With QTAC, more preferences mean more opportunities to choose your future. Using all 6 preferences maximises your chances of getting an offer.
Managing Your QTAC Preferences
When applying through QTAC, how you order and manage your course preferences can impact the chances of getting into your desired course. It’s essential to plan, whether setting up your initial preferences or making changes along the way.
Below are comprehensive guides on ordering and changing your preferences giving you the best chance when applying for your chosen course.
How should I order my preferences?
Your order of preferences firstly depends on whether you have received an offer.
If you are yet to receive your offers, ensure you are still within the dates for your desired course offer rounds. Please note: these differ according to course and institution. You can find these details on Course Search.
You can read our handout about preferences here as well as find further information on this page.
Planning your preferences
Before an Offer:
When arranging your preferences, it’s very important to order them wisely. This ensures prioritising your chosen course. Below is important information to help you be prepared with your preferences.
With QTAC, more preferences mean more opportunities to choose your future. Using all 6 preferences increases your chances of receiving the best offer.
Selection Tips:
- Use Course Search to choose your preferences
- Check for fixed closing dates – Note that courses starting in the same semester may have different offer round dates.
- If applying for courses in different offer rounds, order them chronologically according to the offer round dates. (sooner dates higher than later dates)
Other Useful Guidance:
Keep track of Key Dates
For example, knowing the most up to date dates on all the courses you plan to add in your preferences can help you better plan your application. Find Key Dates here.
Other Useful Guidance:
Stay Organised and Informed
To increase your chances of success in your tertiary admissions journey, ensure you are organised and well-informed. Our service, Remind Me, offers an excellent platform to assist you in staying on track.
Other Useful Guidance:
Frequently Check Your Options
For the best opportunities, carefully check in on your options that lead to your chosen field of tertiary education. Contact us for assistance on 1300 467 822.
Strategic Preference Ordering
We recommend the following instructions for your preferences. This helps to ensure you get the best chance for the pathways to your chosen career. Read more here.
Preferences 1 & 2
Your first two preferences are the dream courses aligning with your passions and aspirations. These are the ultimate in getting you the education to achieve your career goals.
Preferences 3 & 4
The next two preferences are your backup options. Use these preferences to include the less competitive courses within the same field or a different field that interests you.
Preferences 5 & 6
Your last two preferences are best if they are strategic pathways leading to your academic goal. You can get more of an idea of these pathways here.
Important Note: Only save your preferences when you are certain they’re final.
The first three times you click the ‘save’ button are free; subsequent changes will incur a fee.
How can I change my preferences?
You can change your preferences as many times as you like, both before and after receiving an offer.
Refer to the Offers information for guidance on how to order your preferences after receiving an offer.
Changing Preferences:
To change your preferences before receiving an offer. To manage your preferences before an offer:
- Login: Access your QTAC application.
- Edit Courses: In your Customer Portal, select “Edit Courses”.
- Modify Preferences: Add, delete, or edit your preferences.
- Confirm Changes: Once you’ve made all the changes you want, select “Confirm Changes” and follow the prompts.
Important Note: Only save your preferences when you are certain they’re final. The first three times you click the ‘save’ button are free; subsequent changes incur a change of preference fee.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Offers
Reaching the offer stage in your tertiary application journey is an exciting moment filled with possibilities! As you await your offer, it’s important to understand how you’ll be notified and how to respond quickly to secure your place. It’s important to know what options are available to you and how you will respond if you receive an offer.
How we notify you of your offer
We notify you of your offer by email, and may also notify you by SMS.
You only get one offer each offer date. This is for your highest eligible preference (ie the highest preference for which you have met the admission criteria and selection rank requirement, if applicable).
Find out about how entry requirements determine who gets an offer.
Responding to offers
Respond to your offer by the date and time specified on your offer letter so that it does not expire.
To respond to your offer:
- Log in to Application Services.
- Select your response option (ie Accept, Reject, Defer – if deferment is an available choice) button.
- Select the offer response again, and confirm your choice.
Responding to an offer
An offer round is when eligible applicants receive offers from institutions. When you have participated in an offer round, you will learn the outcome of your participation and then need to take action and respond in a timely manner. You will need to respond to an offer before the final deadline, or if you didn’t receive an offer, adjust your plan or preferences in preparation for the next offer round. There are many reasons you may not have received an offer.
QTAC conducts over 30 offer rounds throughout the admissions cycle, not including smaller daily rounds. Institutions choose how many rounds to participate in, with the two busiest rounds occurring at the end of the year and the beginning of the following year, during which most institutions make offers. Applicants can participate in multiple offer rounds, providing them with every opportunity to receive an offer for their preferred courses.
Accept
I’m happy and ready to enrol
Check with the institution for enrolment details and dates.
Conditional Response
I’d like to be considered for my higher preferences
By selecting a conditional response, you indicate that you would like to be considered for a higher preference.
Defer
I’m happy and not ready to enrol yet
Rules for course deferral vary by institution. Please visit our deferment page on our website for institution policies.
Reject
I no longer wish to study
By rejecting your offer outright, you notify QTAC that you no longer wish to study or be considered for any other preferences.
You have three response options:
- Outright
- Conditional, with no change of preference
- Conditional, with a change of preference
For each of the response options, you can accept, reject or defer your offer (if deferment is available for your chosen course).
Please note: You lose your right to an offer when you: receive a new offer for the same semester start, reject an offer or allow an offer to expire.
offer round actions
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If your application is in the process of assessment
If you find your application status marked as ‘Pending’, we encourage clicking the ‘Details’ button next to your preferences to see a list of all entry requirements. Clicking this button, you will see either: ‘Processing of this information has not commenced’, ‘Not yet determined’, or ‘Decision Pending’, which means your application may still be undergoing assessment or you have outstanding documents, check your ‘Alerts’ tab. If you’re unsure which documents, or you’ve already submitted the required documents, you can call us on 1300 467 822 or contact us here.
If you did not get an offer, it could be because:
- you did not meet the entry requirements, look closely at your course requirements
- you needed to compete for a place and your selection rank did not meet the cut-off
- you did not pay your application fee
- you ordered your preferences incorrectly
- you applied after the due date, or too close to an offer round, and we could not assess your application in time.
If you are unsure why you did not get an offer, please contact us.
What next?
If you did not get an offer because you did not meet the entry requirements, there are other options to consider:
- changing your preferences for the next offer round
- upgrading pathways, to improve your chances of entry in the future
- the institution may contact you about pathway offers.
If you HAVE NOT meet all of the entry requirements
If you have not met all of the entry requirements, you will see ‘Not Satisfied’ next to your preference. Clicking the ‘Details’ button you should see ‘No’ next to the entry requirement you have not met, and will not be considered for an offer. Ensure you have supplied the correct Documents for your application. Ensure that you have utilised your preferences, included a Pathway option and met Admissions Criteria.
If you HAVE met all of the entry requirements
If you have met all of the entry requirements, you will see ‘Satisfied’ next to your preference. Clicking the ‘Details’ button you should see ‘Yes’ in each row. However, meeting these minimum entry requirements doesn’t mean you are guaranteed an offer, you will be considered for an offer based on merit in subsequent offer rounds, depending on course vacancy. Useful pages to check:
The selection rank profile: Once on the page, select minimum selection thresholds. The minimum selection threshold is the minimum adjusted score (rank) that was required for an offer of a place.
Key Dates: Check you have applied by the due date of 8th December 2024. If you have applied after this date, you could be considered in subsequent offer rounds through January and February, but there are no guarantees on the assessment of your application, it will depend on course vacancy. Here you will find a list of upcoming offer rounds, but be sure to check Course offers & vacancies too for the most up-to-date info for specific institutions.
Course offers & vacancies: This is the most up-to-date page for subsequent offers coming up. It will detail institutions opting into further offers and is dependent on course vacancy. If a course is closed, full, or no longer offering, you will see this information published here.
Change courses within the same institution
If you want to change to a different course within the same institution, check with your institution whether you can transfer internally.
If not, you will need to change your preferences by logging in to Application Services.
Move to another institution
To apply for a course at a different institution, you will need to change your preferences by logging in to Application Services.
How to Apply
Applying through QTAC
Admissions are now open!
Are you looking to study in 2025? Applications for 2025 admissions are now open!
Visit our Key Dates page for more information.
If you are an international applicant click here.
DISPLAY SUPPOrt
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How to apply
To apply, you must first create a QTAC account.
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
A key part of preparing for tertiary study is your Unique Student Identifier (USI). A USI is required for all students enrolling for study in 2024 and beyond. This includes both vocational education and training (VET) and university.
Students will need a USI if they are:
- studying a nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training (VET) course,
- seeking a VET student loan,
- a higher education student seeking a HELP loan or Commonwealth Supported Place,
- a higher education student graduating in 2023 or beyond.
Courses, admission criteria and minimum selection thresholds
Use Course Search to find out what courses you can study, as well as their admission criteria and minimum selection thresholds.
Make sure you also visit institutions’ open days and career expos for more course advice.
Documentation
If you need to provide documentation, we will let you know. To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you follow the documentation process correctly.
ATAR/selection ranks
You can apply without knowing your ATAR or selection rank. However, it is recommended that you register in the ATAR Portal to receive your ATAR.
2024 Year 12 students
ATAR’s will be released on December 13 2024. If you are not going to receive an ATAR, please talk to your school guidance counsellor about your application or call us on 1300 467 822.
Students applying interstate or overseas
All Queensland students who are applying interstate need to sign up to the ATAR portal and provide consent for us to share your ATAR with interstate Tertiary Admission Centres. You can also download a copy of your ATAR to share with overseas and other non-QTAC institutions.
Everyone else
Call us on 1300 467 822 for information on selection ranks.
The minimum selection threshold required for admission is based on the previous year’s Semester 1 intake period. It varies from year to year. To find out more click here
VET Qualifications for Tertiary Entrance
Institutions may consider completed VET qualifications (at Certificate III level and higher) as a basis of tertiary admission on their own, including for non-school leavers applying for tertiary study.
Institution-specific information and schedules:
- Australian Catholic University
- Bond University
- Christian Heritage College
- CQUniversity Australia
- Griffith College
- Griffith University
- James Cook University
- JMC Academy
- Queensland University of Technology
- Southern Cross University
- TAFE Queensland
- The University of Queensland
- Torrens University
- University of New England
- University of Southern Queensland
- University of the Sunshine Coast
Performing Arts Qualifications for Tertiary Entrance
Non-AQF performing arts qualifications, such as AMEB awards, are not included in the ATAR calculation. However, some institutions may consider these qualifications on their own (including for non-school leavers) as a basis for admission to tertiary study.
Institution-specific information and schedules:
- Australian Catholic University
- Christian Heritage College
- CQUniversity Australia
- Griffith College
- Griffith University
- James Cook University
- JMC Academy
- Queensland University of Technology
- Southern Cross University
- TAFE Queensland
- The University of Queensland (for non-current school leavers)
- Torrens University
- University of New England
- University of Southern Queensland
- University of the Sunshine Coast
Institutions that will not accept performing arts qualifications as a basis of admission for any category of applicant:
- Bond University
Application dates
Preferences
You must order your preferences correctly so you don’t miss out on an offer unnecessarily.
Visit the preferences page for instructions, and use the preferences plan on the same page.
Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) can help you if you have experienced circumstances that negatively affected your most recent studies.
If you are eligible for EAS, you may get adjustments to your selection rank to help you to get into a course, and/or financial assistance from institutions.
Assistance schemes, admission pathways and bridging courses
If you don’t meet the entry requirements or anticipated cut-off, then there are plenty of ways you can improve your chances of being accepted into a course.
These include:
- assistance schemes – Schemes that may add adjustments to your ATAR/selection rank
- upgrading pathways – Other qualifications you can use to apply for tertiary study. Generally not available to current Year 12 students
- bridging courses – Courses that help satisfy a subject prerequisite or improve selection ranks
- competency-based training – Study an ungraded certificate or tertiary-level course to improve your rank
- Queensland Senior External Examination – Year 12 subjects that satisfy subject prerequisites or improve selection ranks
- tertiary study – Study a different graded tertiary course to improve your selection rank
- professional, defence and emergency services qualifications – Your experience may improve your selection rank.
Checking/changing an application
Log in to Application Services to check or change your application. Here, you can:
- track your application’s progress
- change your details
- change your preferences
- view and respond to offers.
Offer responses
If you receive an offer, you’ll have a set time to respond to it. Our key dates and fees page tells you the offer round dates throughout the year. Course Search tells you the offer round dates for your course. If any early offers are going to be made, the dates will be displayed in your application. View the Responding to Offers video for more information.
Nursing and Midwifery courses
Before you can be considered for a place in a Nursing or Midwifery course, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) requires that all applicants demonstrate their English language proficiency. For more details click here.
Teacher Entry
For entry to initial teacher education (ITE) courses, you will need to meet both the academic and non-academic entry requirements. For more information click here.
Study costs
You can find estimated course fees in Course Search. You’ll be told full course costs and other costs by your institution once you’ve been accepted into a course.
Course costs can be expensive, but don’t worry, financial assistance is available if you need it.
Rights and responsibilities
Before you apply to study or for your ATAR, you must know the rights and responsibilities you have as an applicant.
Assistance schemes, admission pathways and bridging courses
You can have your qualifications formally assessed to find out what rank they will be given.
An Assessment of Qualifications can assist if:
- you are planning future study at a non-QTAC partner institution
- you are applying to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.
Click here for more information.
How to apply interstate
All Queensland Year 12 students who are applying interstate need to sign up to the ATAR portal and provide consent for us to share your ATAR with interstate Tertiary Admission Centres. You can also download a copy of your ATAR to share with overseas and other non-QTAC institutions.
You can apply for most interstate courses through state-based tertiary admissions centres:
- New South Wales – apply through UAC
- Northern Territory – apply though SATAC
- South Australia – apply through SATAC
- Tasmania – apply direct for University of Tasmania
- Victoria – apply through VTAC
- Western Australia – apply through TISC; apply direct for The University of Notre Dame Australia.
Application processes and fees vary, so visit the relevant state’s tertiary admissions centre or institution website for more information.
Essential information
Keep checking these pages, as they are date-specific, updated regularly, and contain important information that you’ll need as you plan to submit your application for each offer round.