Options for really low atar

[Keen4vce]

I got an ATAR of 40.20 including an English score of 23. What can I do? I was hoping to do science at deakin. Any thoughts? Are there any Uni courses I can do?

[MelonBar]

Hey, have you considered MIBT? Not sure of the specifics but, I know of someone that did the high school -> Mibt -> bachelor's @ deakin to study health science there. Did you get into any courses on your preferences?

[gibbsy06]

What area of science are you considering? That can play a huge role. Federation Uni could definitely be an option - the clearly-in ATAR at Fed Uni Gippsland for a basic Science degree is 33. Other more specialized areas range up to 45-50. And where would you be relocating from?

Otherwise, MIBT is a good option too.

[Aaron]

MelonBar is right, you should consider MIBT. It offers a second year pathway to Deakin. Lucky for you, there is a Science pathway. See this link for more info: http://www.mibt.vic.edu.au/courses/bachelor-science-deakin

It's similar to how La Trobe has "La Trobe Melbourne" which offers a pathway into 2nd year courses at La Trobe University. You should check that out.

MIBT is not the only option either. Any TAFE will do provided you can show a keen interest and maintain good marks.

Don't worry I know a friend who was in a similar situation as yourself. He is currently doing a 1 year Interactive Media diploma and then moving onto a Bachelor's at RMIT. So it's definitely possible to do this.

[sluu001]

Can I also enquire about your study habits? Whilst all the pathways suggested above are excellent options; they all require you to achieve a certain grade/threshold before the Uni will allow you into their actual 2nd year degree program.

If your ATAR is due to a factor OTHER THAN a lack of effort (i.e. rural/disadvantaged background, personal issues etc.); then these courses would be an excellent option. However, if your grade is a reflection of your effort; then I advise you to have a good look at your study habits - before you take out rather expensive gov't loans (these courses are FULL FEE) to enrol in these courses.

I know several kids with similar scores to yours and enrolled in these programs. Some achieved these grades due to financial/personal issue reasons (rather than a lack of effort); the others were because of a lack of effort (i.e. poor study habits). The majority of the ones who made it into the 2nd year degree were from the 1st group. The majority of the 2nd group dropped out after one semester in the course.

Changing your study habits is one of the hardest things to do as a teenager/young adult. Getting another shot is easy; but taking advantage of it is mighty difficult.