Non-ATAR courses

At Victoria University (VU), we believe you are more than just your ATAR. That’s why most of our courses don’t have an ATAR requirement.

Your ATAR alone doesn’t tell us about your passions, your drive, or what you can achieve if you are given the right opportunity to thrive.

To apply for a non-ATAR course, all you need to do is:

  • ensure you have met the relevant prerequisites (listed on the course page) 
  • apply through VTAC or directly to VU, depending on your circumstances (check our how to apply page for more information). 

Below is a list of excellent, industry-focused courses at VU that do not require an ATAR for entry.

Certificates & diplomas

Our TAFE certificates and diplomas do not require an ATAR for entry, but do have a literacy and numeracy assessment and other requirements in some cases. Check the course page for more detail.

To apply for these courses, you need to have completed Year 12:

To apply for this course, you need to have completed Year 12 and have English study score of at least 25 (EAL) or 20 (other):

Diploma of Education Studies (EDES)

University degrees

Most degrees require that you have completed Year 12 (or you have equivalent life experience). In addition, some have a specified English score, and other prerequisites.

Year 12 + English score of 25 (EAL) or 20 (other) 

The following courses require completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent), including Units 3 and 4, and a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English.

Year 12 + English score of 30 (EAL) or 25 (other)

The following courses require completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent), including Units 3 and 4, and a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or 25 in any other English.

Year 12 + English study score + prerequisite subjects

The following courses require completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent), including Units 3 and 4, as well as a particular English study score, and additional prerequisite subjects. Check the course page for more details.

Student successes

Success despite the odds
Bachelor of Youth Work/Bachelor of Sport Management
"I was scared of attending university for the first time in my life, but the wonderful support I received gave me the confidence I needed to do very well in all my units. I was also able to build industry connections that I benefit from to this day."
I was scared of attending university for the first time in my life, but the wonderful support I received gave me the confidence I needed to do very well in all my units. I was also able to build industry connections that I benefit from to this day.
Ashay's story
How Eliza went from low ATAR to high achiever
Bachelor of Youth Work
"During my studies I completed an internship at The Youth Junction Inc. Two months in, I was offered a full-time position as a Youth Access and Justice Case Manager."
During my studies I completed an internship at The Youth Junction Inc. Two months in, I was offered a full-time position as a Youth Access and Justice Case Manager.
Eliza's story
Meredith Hunt.
How Meredith is forging her own path into law
Advanced Diploma of Legal Practice 22565VIC, Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Criminology
"A great advantage of studying TAFE before higher ed is the preparation you get. The hands-on approach to learning provides the experience that workplaces are looking for."
A great advantage of studying TAFE before higher ed is the preparation you get. The hands-on approach to learning provides the experience that workplaces are looking for.
Meredith's story