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Is University for my child?
Attending university is exciting and can be very rewarding. It usually means you earn more money over your lifetime and work in an area that really interests you. University also opens up opportunities to learn about and explore the world!
How does my child get into university?
Your child’s school will assist them with their application to university in Year 12. Your child’s Higher School Certificate (HSC) results will determine their Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR). School leavers need an ATAR score to get into university.
Can we afford it?
There are fees, but students can pay after they finish their degree, and once they start working and earning above a certain amount. This payment system is called HECS-HELP.
Most students work part-time, and often during the day as university timetables are more flexible than school.
There are often scholarships and other types of financial assistance available for students in financial need and your child may be eligible for one of these.
Each university has information on their website about financial assistance and it is a good idea to look at these both before and once your child starts university.
There is also financial assistance available through Centrelink.
Will my child fit in?
All universities have students from many backgrounds and cultural and religious differences are respected and supported. There are even religious and cultural clubs that your child can join.
What if my child has difficulties?
There are support services at all universities. Your child can get advice and help free of charge to assist them with their study, health or happiness. There are also services specifically for students with a disability.
To succeed at university can be challenging, but the first steps for students are choosing a course that suits them, studying consistently and asking for assistance if they need it.
How do university students spend their time?
Most of the time students are at university they are in classes which are called tutorials or lectures, many students study in the library or in computer labs or with other students.
There are also many activities and clubs they can join which will assist them to meet other students and make friends.
What if my child’s school marks aren’t good enough to get in?
There are lots of pathways into university, it doesn’t all depend on the HSC result. Most universities have information on their websites about these which are often called special entry schemes, flexible entry pathways or access programs.
How can I get more information?
Ask your school Careers Advisor as they can give you more information or tell you how to get more details.
Talk to university staff when they visit your child’s school and attend free university Open Days.
All universities have their own websites with information for future students.
The Universities Admissions Centre has information about all courses in NSW and ACT.