How to calculate your ATAR (HSC)

What is an ATAR?

The ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) is not merely a mark but a ranking system.

It represents a numerical value ranging from 0.00 to 99.95, signifying a student's position compared to all individuals within their age group (typically 16 to 20-year-olds in NSW). For instance, an ATAR of 80.00 denotes that the student ranks in the top 20 percent of their age group, not specifically their Year 12 cohort.

Universities utilise the ATAR as a selection tool for their courses, and admission to most tertiary programs is based on a student's selection rank, which comprises their ATAR combined with any applicable adjustments. Additionally, universities may consider other criteria in their selection process, such as personal statements, questionnaires, portfolios of work, auditions, interviews, or tests.

The average ATAR typically hovers around 70.00. If every student achieved an ATAR, the average would be 50.00. However, because not all students continue to pursue an ATAR, the average is higher, as those who stay on represent a more academically able group.

ATARs are calculated separately in each state to reflect a student's ranking relative to their peers within that state. In NSW, the ATAR is calculated and released by UAC (Universities Admissions Centre), while in the ACT, it is calculated by the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies in consultation with UAC and then released by schools. NSW and ACT ATAR's are equivalent to those in other states. For instance, an ATAR of 85.00 in NSW or the ACT holds the same value as an ATAR of 85.00 in other states.


Distinguishing HSC marks from the ATAR:

It is crucial to understand that HSC marks and the ATAR serve distinct purposes:

  • HSC marks indicate a student's performance in individual courses, with no limit on the number of students achieving top marks.
  • ATAR, on the other hand, provides a ranking of a student's overall performance relative to others in NSW, considering all HSC courses completed. Its sole purpose is to assist universities in selecting applicants for their courses.


HSC marks:

  • Are presented as scores out of 100.
  • Indicate a student's performance in each course, aligned with standards set by NESA (New South Wales Education Standards Authority).
  • Can only be compared to the marks of students who took the same HSC courses.
  • Are provided by NESA.


ATAR:

  • Is a rank and not a mark or percentage.
  • Represents a student's overall position relative to their peers.
  • Compares students who completed different combinations of HSC courses.
  • Is provided by UAC.


How your ATAR is calculated

In NSW, your ATAR is based on an aggregate of scaled marks in 10 units of HSC courses comprising your: 

  • best 2 units of English 
  • best 8 units from your remaining units, which can include no more than 2 units of Category B courses. (Note that from 2025 there will be no distinction between Category A and Category B courses.)


Although eligibility for an ATAR requires completion of at least four subject areas, the aggregate may be based on fewer subject areas; for example, English Advanced, English Extension 1 and Extension 2, Mathematics Extension 1 and Extension 2, and one other 2-unit course. You must still satisfactorily complete at least four subject areas to be eligible for an ATAR. 

Calculation of the ATAR in NSW is the responsibility of the Technical Committee on Scaling on behalf of the NSW Vice-Chancellors' Committee.