New ways into JCU

“These students are facing extraordinary circumstances in what is usually the most critical year in terms of getting into the university course of their choice,” Future Students Manager Regina Blackburn said.

“In a year where nothing seems normal, we’re aiming to give Year 12 students greater clarity and certainty about next year, when they’ll begin an important and exciting stage of their lives.”

The changes include: early offers of places at JCU (based on a combination of results to date and feedback from the student’s school); guaranteed admission; bonus ATAR points for students from regional and remote Queensland as well as those who have studied particular subjects.

Early offers

“There are many courses in which we are confident we can assess students accurately and fairly, based on a recommendation from their school that covers academic performance, motivation, talents, passion and capabilities,” Ms Blackburn said.

“In these courses we are able to make an early offer, giving students greater certainty. They can apply anytime between now and November 15th. Successful applicants will receive an offer within 48 hours and, where there are conditions they need to meet in the remainder of their school year, those will be very clearly outlined.”

Guaranteed admission

Once students receive their Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) from the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) in August, they can apply for guaranteed admission to JCU.

“Students who receive an ATAR of 90 or above will be guaranteed entry into most JCU courses, whether or not they have studied the required subjects at high school,” Ms Blackburn said.

“Applicants with an ATAR of 73 or above will be guaranteed entry into most JCU courses, but will need to meet the course subject prerequisites.”

Early offers and guaranteed admission are available in a range of courses including business, law, science and some allied health degrees.

Adjustment factors

There is also good news for students from regional and rural Queensland, who will receive two bonus ATAR points from QTAC in support of their applications, with the exception of some courses with special application requirements.

“The Regional Preference Scheme is open to domestic applicants who live in postcodes 4306 through to 4895,” Ms Blackburn said.

Bonus points are also available for students who have studied mathematics, science, and languages.

“Our aim with these programs is to make students’ lives easier, not more complicated,” Ms Blackburn said.   “Applying under these programs doesn’t tie you to a decision. If you change your mind, there are the usual paths for doing that. And if you have questions after you’ve read the details, our advisers are available on freecall 1800 246 446.

Students can find further information here: Year 12.