Start uni in 2025, no matter your ATAR

Are you feeling overwhelmed about what your ATAR will be?

Because we can help you get into your degree no matter what your Year 12 results are. All you have to do is enrol in some single subjects. 

Not sure what to study?

Take our course matching quiz.

Help me choose a course

How this entry pathway works

Your ATAR isn't everything. You can meet the entry requirements for many degrees by completing a set of single subjects online through us.

  • These subjects will belong to your chosen degree, but are open to everyone.
  • Once you successfully pass your subjects, you can transfer into the full qualification with academic credit.
  • Just like a degree, these subjects are covered by HELP funding. 
Search below to find out which degrees offer this enrolment option.

Discover degrees you can start through single subjects

Undergraduate CUR-BED-DEG

Bachelor of Education (Primary Education)

Undergraduate UNE-LLB-DEG

Bachelor of Laws (4 Years)

Undergraduate MAQ-PSY-DEG

Bachelor of Psychology

Undergraduate LAT-HUN-DEG

Bachelor of Food and Nutrition

Available majors

  • Major in Criminal Justice

Undergraduate TAS-BAC-DEG

Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

Undergraduate MUR-CDV-DEG

Bachelor of Arts (Community Development)

Available majors

  • Major Subjects

Undergraduate CUR-CWG-DEG

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing)

Frequently asked questions about single subject entry

How is it possible to start university without the right ATAR?

As a not-for-profit, we have a unique arrangement with universities across Australia. It means we can help students get into their preferred undergraduate degree through single subjects, without worrying about entry requirements. 

What subjects will I study?

It depends on the degree you want to do. We’ll recommend between two to four undergraduate subjects you should start with when you enrol. You can also find out what they will be by visiting the ‘entry requirements’ section of your preferred course.  

They will be introductory-level subjects that belong to the full qualification.  

Will I learn the same material as an on-campus student?

Yes, you’ll cover exactly the same material you would have covered if you were studying in person. The only difference is the delivery method—you will learn via recorded lectures, video chats and discussion forums instead of having to attend classes. 

When can I transfer into the full degree?

Once you successfully pass your required subjects, you will meet the entry requirements for the full degree and you can apply through us. Most people complete their required subjects within one or two study periods.

You can then decide to study the degree online or apply for an on-campus place. 

Are single subjects covered by HELP loans?

Yes. As long as you meet the citizenship requirements, you can have the cost of your single subjects covered by a HELP loan. This means the government pays your tuition fees, and you only pay them back through the tax system once you’re earning a suitable full-time income.  

When you start the degree, your university will give you credit for the subjects you’ve studied.

I’m still not sure this is right for me. Can I talk to someone?

Our friendly student advisors are here to help you figure out what life after Year 12 might look like. You can reach out to them via phone, messenger or web chat to ask about this entry option, different undergraduate study options, and online study in general. 

You can also book a free phone chat to get more detailed one-on-one advice. You can invite a parent, guardian or trusted friend to be on the call with you if you like.

Further reading

Does your ATAR really matter?

And is it the end of the world if you don't get the score you wanted? Find out why the ATAR doesn't hold as much weight as it once did.

How to get into uni without an ATAR

There’s no one right way into university. Discover the alternative pathways you can follow to gain entry, even if you don’t have a strong academic history.

The change of preference period explained for Year 12s

Once ATAR results are out, you’ll have one more chance to change your course shortlist before main round uni offers. Here are the most important things to understand about this crucial change of preference period.

What to do if your ATAR is low

It's nerve-wracking to think about, but here's what you should do if you land a low ATAR—plus other tips for your ATAR results. 

Open Universities Australia student advisor, Josh, seated at a workstation.
Student advisor Josh is here to help.

Find out more about how to get started

Speak to a student advisor for: 

  • free, impartial advice
  • expert knowledge about courses and unis
  • personalised recommendations 

Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us.

Meet a student who enrolled in her dream course through us

"Teachers always told us that exams were important… that you need to get a high ATAR score or you won’t have many options. But I never felt too much pressure. Getting straight into the degree may be the easiest way, but it’s not the only way."

—Taylah, Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice student, Griffith University

Open Universities Australia student Taylah sitting with her English staffy dog.
Taylah got into her Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice even after Year 12 didn't go to plan.