Non-ATAR VCE

Typically, students undertake scored assessments as part of their VCE. Scored assessment comes into effect in Units 3&4 and provides a more detailed record of achievement. A scored VCE provides students with an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) and is the best way to maximise options and pathways to further education and training.

However, students can complete their VCE without undertaking graded assessments (School Assessed Coursework (SACs), School Assessed Tasks (SATs), and external exams) and the calculation of a study score. This is known as a Non-ATAR VCE.

Students may opt for a Non-ATAR VCE pathway because…

  • They don’t require an ATAR to continue with their chosen pathway

  • They can successfully meet all of the required outcomes in a subject but are likely to receive a study score/ATAR that will not meet the entry requirements of a chosen university or TAFE pathway, negatively impact their wellbeing, etc.

  • The pressure and issues associated with undertaking scored assessment are far greater than the potential rewards associated with a VCE (ATAR) pathway.

Unit ¾ students who wish to undertake a Non-ATAR pathway must undertake the process below. It is in place to ensure that students/parents/carers are aware of tertiary options that do not require an ATAR, before committing to a Non-ATAR pathway.

Completing a Non-ATAR VCE still requires a student to demonstrate their achievement at a unit 3/4 standard, however, they are not required to complete any formal school-based assessments or external examinations that solely contribute to the study score.

Non-ATAR VCE students must also meet the 90% attendance requirements @TC and demonstrate all the required outcomes to be assessed as satisfactory.

Students should contact a member of their CET if they think they may benefit from a VCE Non-ATAR pathway.