Ep 87 - Unscored VCE vs VCE Vocational Major: What Are Your Further Study Options?
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What we’re talking about:
Are you deciding between a scored VCE, an unscored VCE or VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM)? Or are you a parent trying to understand which option will give your child the best opportunities after Year 12?
In this episode of Course and Career Chat, I explain the differences between these VCE options and what they can mean for your future study plans, including applying for university and TAFE courses.
While a scored VCE is generally the most direct pathway to a university course that requires an ATAR, not every university course requires an ATAR, and there are alternative pathways into bachelor degrees. I explain what to consider before making your decision and why choosing a pathway that suits your strengths and goals is important.
What we're talking about:
1:57 What's the difference between a scored and an unscored VCE?
Understand the difference between completing a scored VCE and completing VCE studies without receiving study scores. Find out how these options affect your ATAR and your applications for further study.
3:47 Is an unscored VCE new?
Unscored VCE has become more familiar to some families in recent years. I discuss how attitudes towards unscored VCE have changed and why it's important to understand the implications before deciding whether it's the right option for you.
4:40 Do all courses require an ATAR?
No! While many bachelor degrees use the ATAR as part of their selection process, some courses have different entry requirements. There are also TAFE courses and diploma programs that may not require an ATAR. Find out why it's important to investigate the entry requirements for the specific courses you're interested in.
5:38 If you do an unscored VCE, can you still get into a bachelor degree?
If you don't receive an ATAR, that doesn't necessarily mean university is off the table. I explain how alternative pathways can help you work towards a bachelor degree, including guaranteed and recommended pathways, and why RMIT and Swinburne are worth investigating if you're looking for another way into a course.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between scored VCE and unscored VCE?
A scored VCE includes scored assessments that can contribute to study scores and an ATAR, provided the student meets the relevant requirements. With an unscored VCE, students complete their studies without receiving study scores for those subjects and therefore don't receive an ATAR based on them. Students still need to meet the requirements to satisfactorily complete their VCE.
Does VCE Vocational Major give you an ATAR?
VCE VM studies do not receive study scores and do not directly contribute to an ATAR. However, students can explore further study through non-ATAR pathways, including vocational education, and may have options to undertake other VCE studies as part of their program. Check the current VCAA and VTAC requirements for your circumstances.
Can you go to university without an ATAR?
Yes. Some universities offer alternative entry pathways into bachelor degrees. Depending on the course and institution, these may include diploma programs, pathway courses or other admission arrangements. You should check the current entry requirements for the course you're interested in.
Can you go to TAFE without an ATAR?
Many TAFE courses do not require an ATAR, although entry requirements vary. Some courses require prerequisite subjects, a previous qualification, an interview or other selection requirements. Check the requirements for your preferred course before choosing your VCE program.
Should you choose an unscored VCE or VCE VM if you don't want to go to university?
That depends on your interests, learning preferences and plans after school. VCE VM offers an applied learning program with vocational education and training, making it worth considering for students interested in practical learning, apprenticeships, traineeships, further training or employment. An unscored VCE may suit different circumstances. Talk to your school about which option best fits your goals.
Where to find out more
Before deciding which VCE pathway is right for you, check the latest information from:
VTAC – for current tertiary admission information and course requirements.
Your VCE pathway matters, but it doesn't have to determine your entire future. Understand your options, investigate the courses you're interested in and make a decision that keeps the right doors open for you.
Links mentioned:
Work with me: https://www.roadmapeducation.com/services
How ATARs are calculated?: https://www.roadmapeducation.com/podcast/58