What to Do If You Get a Low ATAR Score?

Alright, let’s be real—getting a low ATAR sucks. You worked hard, hoped for the best, and now you're staring at a number that doesn’t feel good. It’s frustrating. Maybe you’re wondering what your parents will say, what your friends will think, or what you’re supposed to do now.

But here’s the truth: it’s not the end of the world. Not even close. Many people don’t discuss it, but a significant number of students don’t achieve the score they wanted and still go on to do great things. What matters now is how you move forward, not the number on that page.

Here are some real steps you can take if your ATAR didn’t go as planned.

1. Let Yourself Feel It (But Don’t Stay Stuck There)

You’re allowed to be upset. Disappointed. Angry. It’s okay. Let it out. Talk to someone. Go for a walk. Cry if you need to. But don’t sit in that feeling for too long. One score doesn’t decide your life. Seriously.

2. Check What Options Are Still Open

Just because your dream course had a high ATAR doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance forever. Look into what’s still available. Some universities offer similar courses with slightly lower entry scores. You might find something just as interesting—and you can often transfer later if you still want that original degree.

3. Consider a Pathway Course

A lot of people don’t realise this, but universities want students to succeed. That’s why most of them offer pathway programs—backup routes that let you study something related for a year, and then move into the course you originally wanted.

It’s like taking the side street instead of the highway. You’ll still get there.

4. Look at TAFE or Vocational Courses

This isn’t second-best. Some of the most practical, hands-on jobs come through vocational training. Think areas like aged care, graphic design, cyber security, business admin, event management, and heaps more.

And guess what? Many of these courses can also lead you into university later on, if that’s still something you want.

5. Don’t Forget About Special Entry and Bonus Points

Depending on where you live or what school you went to—or even if you had personal or medical stuff going on—you might qualify for bonus points or special consideration. These can increase your selection rank and help you get into a course that your raw ATAR alone wouldn’t.

Talk to the admissions team or check your state’s application site (like UAC, VTAC, etc.).

6. You Can Always Change Preferences

Seriously, do this. It’s one of the most flexible parts of the system. If your original preferences feel out of reach, look at courses that are still available and line up with your interests.

Plenty of students end up in careers they love that started with a different course than what they first planned.

7. A Gap Year Can Be a Smart Move

Taking a year off isn’t slacking—it’s smart if you use it well. You could work, save money, volunteer, travel (if that’s feasible), or simply take the time to figure out what you want to do.

And if you’re still unsure about your future, this year can give you space to think without rushing into something you’re not ready for.

8. Repeating Year 12? Maybe. But Think It Through.

This one’s not for everyone. Some students choose to repeat because they know they can improve with a second shot. If that’s you, and you’ve got the motivation, then it’s worth looking into.

But if the thought of going through all that again makes your stomach turn, you’re not alone. It’s not the only path.

9. Don’t Rule Out Jobs or Apprenticeships

University isn’t the only route to a solid career. Apprenticeships and traineeships can lead to well-paying, reliable jobs. And you’ll be earning money while you learn.

There’s value in getting experience early. Some people do better in work environments than in classrooms. Nothing wrong with that at all.

10. Private Colleges and Online Options

Some private education providers offer diploma and certificate programs that don’t require a high ATAR. Just be sure to do your research—some are great, others not so much. Check reviews, ask questions, and look at whether their courses are recognised.

Final Thoughts: You’re More Than a Score

A low ATAR doesn’t mean you’re lazy, dumb, or doomed. It just means that one part of your life didn’t go as planned. That’s it.

Ask around, and you’ll find people who didn’t get the marks they needed at 17 or 18, but still found their way, built careers, and ended up exactly where they needed to be. Sometimes the path just looks different—and that’s not a bad thing.

What matters now is not the score. It’s how you respond to it.

And if you ever feel stuck with academic work or just need support along the way, check out getassignment.com.au. Whether you’re starting a new course or working through a pathway, having a little help makes a big difference.