Wellbeing Hub

QTAC

As we approach the final stages of Senior Schooling, it's time to begin thinking seriously about post-school pathways. If you are hoping to attend university in Queensland after finishing high school, you’ll need to apply through QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre).

Note: please be aware that this information is provided for Year 12 students and their families.

1. What is QTAC?

QTAC manages the application process for students applying to university, TAFE and other tertiary courses. Students can list up to six preferences and adjust these throughout the process (fees apply for fourth and subsequent preference changes).

2. When to Apply:

QTAC applications for courses starting 2026 open Tuesday 5th August 2025 and cost $70. We strongly encourage students to submit their applications by 30th September 2025 to avoid late fees ($150 late application fee).

3. How to Apply: Applications are completed online at www.qtac.edu.au. Students will need their LUI number and personal details to register and begin the process. Students must use a personal email address and NOT their school email.

4. Choosing Preferences: Students should research courses, prerequisites and entry requirements carefully. Information about courses can be found on the QTAC and tertiary institution websites. You can only get one offer in an offer round and this will be for your highest eligible preference. Please note that fees apply for fourth and subsequent preference changes).

• 1 & 2: Dream Big, Place First The first two courses in your preference list should be reserved for your dream courses. Select the courses that fuel your passion and resonate deeply with your academic aspirations. These are the programs you’ve envisioned, so feel free to prioritise them accordingly.
• 3 & 4: Prepare for Plan B Life is unpredictable and doesn’t always go to plan, so make sure you plan ahead. For courses three and four, consider selecting backup courses that still spark your interest. Opt for less competitive options to ensure you have solid alternatives in case your first choices don’t pan out. Choose to remain within the same field of study, offering the potential to accumulate credits for your desired course at a later stage. Alternatively, consider exploring a completely different field that piques your interest, where you anticipate excelling and securing the grades needed for a successful transfer in the future.
• 5 & 6: Pave Your Pathway As you move down your preference list, think strategically. Place courses that could serve as pathways to your ultimate academic goal. These could be programs that align with your interests and lead you step by step toward your dream career. It’s all about building a comprehensive plan for success.

5. Important Dates and Offers: Offer rounds occur at different times, with the main offer round typically in January 2026. Some courses may offer earlier rounds or have different deadlines, so staying informed is essential.

6. Attend Open Days: We strongly encourage students and their parents/carers to attend university and TAFE open days throughout the year. These events are an excellent opportunity to explore campuses, speak with current students and staff, and gain a better understanding of course options and campus life. Information about open day dates is available on individual institution websites and a summary can be found here.

7. EAS:

The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) is designed to support students who have experienced educational disadvantage during their senior years of high school. Eligible students may receive adjustment factors (bonus ranks) that can help improve their chances of gaining entry to their preferred university courses.

Students may be eligible under one or more of the following categories:

1. Financial Hardship– Centrelink income support, low family income or significant financial stress
2. Home Environment and Responsibilities– Excessive responsibility for care of others, family disruption or unsafe living arrangements
3. English Language Difficulty– For learners who began schooling in Australia in recent years and where English is not the first language. Please note: International students who have chosen to study in English in Australia are not eligible in this category
4. Personal Illness or Disability– Physical or mental health conditions that impacted learning
5. School Environment– Attending a school that experienced disruption or lacked access to educational resources
6. Elite Athlete Adjustment Scheme

–Takes into account how your sporting commitments may have affected your academic performance over the past two years

Each category requires specific supporting documentation, so we encourage you to review the detailed requirements on the QTAC website.

8. Support at School: We will be providing guidance and support through our Senior Studies Program (SSP) and Wellbeing Hub #2 including:

• QTAC information session: QTAC will present to students on Tuesday 26th August during SSP
• One-on-one career and pathway meetings: students can book directly with their Guidance Officer- Miss Thompson through Student Sharepoint- Referral to Wellbeing Hub #2
• Destination Conversations: students can drop in to EL32 during First Break on Friday 8th August and at Second Break on Wednesdays in Weeks 6 and 7 to discuss any questions Year 12 students have regarding QTAC Applications, Educational Adjustment Scheme (EAS) and post-schooling pathways