ATAR Requirements for Top Australian Universities in 2026

Choosing the right university and course is one of the most important decisions you will make after completing Year 12. Understanding the ATAR requirements for different courses helps you set realistic goals and make informed choices. This comprehensive guide covers ATAR cut-offs for popular courses at Australia's leading universities in 2026.

Understanding ATAR Cut-offs

Before diving into specific numbers, it is important to understand what ATAR cut-offs mean. A cut-off is the lowest ATAR that received an offer in a particular round of offers. Cut-offs can vary significantly from year to year based on the number of applicants, available places, and the strength of the applicant pool.

Published cut-offs represent the lowest selection rank—not the guaranteed entry point. Many students receive offers above the cut-off, and adjustment factors (such as equity schemes, regional bonuses, or subject bonuses) can help students with lower raw ATARs secure places. Always check the specific requirements for each course, as prerequisites and other criteria also apply.

Group of Eight Universities

The Group of Eight (Go8) comprises Australia's leading research-intensive universities. These institutions generally have higher ATAR requirements due to strong demand and limited places.

Medicine

Medicine is consistently the most competitive course at Australian universities. Entry typically requires an ATAR above 99.00, and often 99.50 or higher at the most prestigious institutions. Beyond ATAR, most medical programs require:

• UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) scores
• Interviews for shortlisted candidates
• Prerequisite subjects including English, Chemistry, and often Biology
• Some programs consider personal statements or portfolios

The University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University, and UNSW are among the most sought-after medical schools. Graduate-entry medicine programs offer alternative pathways for those who complete an undergraduate degree first.

Law

Combined Law degrees at Go8 universities typically require ATARs between 95.00 and 99.00. The University of Melbourne offers law only as a graduate degree, while the University of Sydney, UNSW, University of Queensland, and Australian National University offer undergraduate combined degrees.

ATAR requirements for Law vary depending on the university and the combined degree. Arts/Law combinations often have slightly lower cut-offs than Commerce/Law or Science/Law at the same institution.

Engineering

Engineering at Go8 universities generally requires ATARs between 85.00 and 95.00, depending on the specialisation and institution. Prerequisite subjects typically include high-level mathematics (Extension or Methods) and often Physics. Popular specialisations include:

• Electrical and Computer Engineering: 88-95
• Mechanical Engineering: 85-92
• Civil Engineering: 83-90
• Software Engineering: 90-96
• Biomedical Engineering: 92-98

Commerce and Business

Commerce degrees at Go8 universities typically require ATARs between 90.00 and 98.00. The University of Melbourne's Bachelor of Commerce often has cut-offs around 95, while UNSW and University of Sydney Commerce programs sit between 92 and 97 depending on majors and specialisations.

Other Major Universities

Beyond the Go8, many excellent universities offer high-quality programs with more accessible ATAR requirements. These institutions often provide strong industry connections, practical learning opportunities, and specialised programs not available at larger research universities.

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

UTS is known for practical, industry-focused education. ATAR requirements typically range from 75.00 to 95.00 depending on the course. Nursing, IT, and Design programs are particularly strong.

RMIT University

RMIT offers excellent programs in design, architecture, engineering, and business. Cut-offs range from 70.00 to 92.00, with creative programs often considering portfolio work alongside ATAR.

Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

QUT is known for business, creative industries, and health programs. ATAR requirements typically range from 70.00 to 95.00. The university has strong industry partnerships and graduate employment outcomes.

Regional Universities

Regional universities often have lower ATAR cut-offs and may offer bonus points for students from regional areas. These institutions provide valuable opportunities and often have excellent student support services:

• Charles Sturt University: Many programs from ATAR 60.00
• University of New England: Programs from ATAR 65.00
• James Cook University: Programs from ATAR 65.00
• University of Southern Queensland: Programs from ATAR 60.00

High-Demand Courses Across All Universities

Certain courses consistently require high ATARs regardless of institution:

• Physiotherapy: 95.00-99.00 at most universities
• Veterinary Science: 95.00-99.50
• Dentistry: 97.00-99.50
• Optometry: 95.00-98.00
• Actuarial Studies: 95.00-99.00
• Architecture: 85.00-95.00 (often requires portfolio)

Alternative Pathways

If your ATAR falls below the cut-off for your preferred course, several pathways exist:

• Foundation or pathway programs at your target university
• Diploma programs that articulate into second year of a bachelor degree
• Starting in a related course and transferring internally
• Completing a bachelor degree and entering postgraduate studies
• TAFE qualifications that provide credit toward university degrees

Planning Your University Journey

Use our free ATAR calculator to estimate where your scores might place you, then research specific courses and universities that match your predicted range. Remember to consider factors beyond ATAR, including campus culture, location, industry connections, and support services.

University open days provide valuable opportunities to explore campuses and speak directly with current students and staff. Many universities also offer early entry schemes for students who demonstrate strong academic performance or particular talents.

Conclusion

ATAR requirements vary significantly across universities and courses. While Go8 institutions often have higher cut-offs, excellent opportunities exist at universities across the country. Focus on achieving your personal best, researching your options thoroughly, and remembering that multiple pathways lead to successful careers. Your ATAR opens doors, but your university choice should align with your interests, career goals, and preferred learning environment.