SACE ATAR Calculator 2026 - Calculate Your South Australian ATAR Score
Calculate Your SACE ATAR
Enter your scaled scores for your Stage 2 subjects:
Your Estimated ATAR
Understanding SACE ATAR Calculation
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) for SACE students is calculated by SATAC to provide a standardized measure of academic achievement for tertiary admission. Your ATAR represents your position as a percentile rank relative to the entire Australian age cohort, not just students who completed Year 12.
ATAR Calculation Formula
The SACE ATAR calculation follows this process:
Step 1: Raw Score Calculation (per subject)
\[ \text{Raw Score} = (0.70 \times \text{School Assessment}) + (0.30 \times \text{External Assessment}) \]
Step 2: Subject Scaling
\[ \text{Scaled Score}_i = f(\text{Raw Score}_i, \text{Cohort Strength}_i) \]
Step 3: University Aggregate
\[ \text{Aggregate} = \sum_{i=1}^{3} \text{Best TAS}_{20\text{ credit}} + \text{Best Flexible}_{30\text{ credits}} \]
\[ \text{Maximum Aggregate} = 90.00 \]
Step 4: Percentile Ranking
\[ \text{Percentile Rank} = 100 - \left(\frac{\text{Number Better or Equal}}{\text{Total Cohort}} \times 100\right) \]
Step 5: ATAR Calculation
\[ \text{ATAR} = g(\text{Percentile Rank}, \text{Participation Rate}) \]
Where:
- \( f \) = SATAC scaling function accounting for subject difficulty
- \( g \) = Participation-adjusted ranking function
- ATAR ranges from 0.00 to 99.95 in increments of 0.05
- Scaled scores: 20.0 max for 20-credit subjects, 10.0 max for 10-credit subjects
SACE Grade Descriptors
| Grade | Performance Level | Typical Score Range | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | 85 - 100 | Comprehensive and detailed knowledge with sophisticated skills |
| B | Very Good | 70 - 84 | Thorough knowledge with well-developed skills |
| C | Good | 55 - 69 | Sound knowledge with competent skills |
| D | Satisfactory | 40 - 54 | Basic knowledge with developing skills |
| E | Limited | 0 - 39 | Limited knowledge with emerging skills |
How SATAC Scaling Works
SATAC scales subjects to ensure students are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged by their subject choices. The scaling process examines the academic strength of each subject's cohort by analyzing how students in that subject perform across all their other subjects. Subjects with academically stronger cohorts receive higher scaling factors.
High-Scaling SACE Subjects (2025-2026)
- Specialist Mathematics - Highest scaling subject due to highly competitive cohort
- Physics - Strong scaling for science pathway students
- Chemistry - High scaling, essential for medical and science courses
- Mathematical Methods - Above-average scaling for mathematics stream
- English Literary Studies - High scaling for humanities pathway
- Languages (Chinese, Japanese, German, French, Italian) - Competitive scaling
- Accounting - Strong scaling for business pathway
- Biology - Above-average scaling for health sciences
Step-by-Step ATAR Calculation Process
- Complete Stage 2 assessments: Students complete school-based assessments (70% weighting) and external assessments set by the SACE Board (30% weighting) for each Stage 2 subject. These are combined to create raw scores out of 20 for full subjects or 10 for half subjects.
- Moderation process: School-based assessment results are statistically moderated based on external assessment results to ensure consistency and fairness across all South Australian schools. This prevents advantaging or disadvantaging students based on school marking standards.
- Subject scaling applied: SATAC applies scaling to convert raw scores into scaled scores. The scaling factors account for subject difficulty and cohort competitiveness using statistical modeling of student performance patterns across all subjects.
- Best subjects identified: SATAC identifies your best three 20-credit Tertiary Admissions Subjects (TAS) totaling 60 credits, plus your best 30 credits from remaining eligible subjects (the "flexible option"). This ensures only your strongest performances count.
- University Aggregate calculated: Your scaled scores from the best 90 credits are summed to create your University Aggregate out of a maximum of 90.00. This aggregate represents your overall academic achievement in Stage 2.
- Cohort ranking determined: All SACE students are ranked in descending order by their University Aggregate. Your position in this ranking determines your preliminary percentile.
- Participation rate adjustment: SATAC adjusts your percentile rank to account for the participation rate (the percentage of the entire age cohort who completed an ATAR-eligible program). This ensures your ATAR reflects your position relative to all Australian youth, not just those who completed Year 12.
- Final ATAR assigned: After participation rate adjustment, you receive your final ATAR between 0.00 and 99.95 in increments of 0.05. An ATAR of 85.00 means you performed as well as or better than 85% of the entire Australian age cohort.
ATAR Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an ATAR in South Australia, you must meet specific completion requirements for the SACE and select appropriate Tertiary Admissions Subjects. These requirements ensure you have demonstrated sufficient breadth and depth of learning for tertiary study consideration.
Core SACE Requirements
To gain the SACE, you must complete 200 credits including:
- Stage 1 (Year 11): Minimum 10 credits in literacy, 10 credits in numeracy, and at least 50 credits from Stage 1 subjects
- Personal Learning Plan (PLP): 10 credits at Stage 1 (typically completed in Year 10)
- Stage 2 (Year 12): At least 90 credits from Stage 2 subjects including the Research Project
ATAR-Specific Requirements
- Complete the Research Project A or B (10 credits) - This is mandatory for all ATAR students
- Achieve at least 90 credits of Stage 2 subjects in a maximum of three attempts (can be non-consecutive years)
- Complete at least 60 credits from 20-credit Tertiary Admissions Subjects (TAS) or approved valid pairs of 10-credit subjects
- Complete remaining 30 credits from additional TAS or up to 20 credits of Recognised Studies
- Follow precluded combinations rules - certain subject combinations cannot both count toward your ATAR
- Attempt the external assessment for all TAS subjects - failing to attempt results in a scaled score of 0.0
Tertiary Admissions Subjects (TAS)
TAS are Stage 2 subjects approved by universities as providing appropriate preparation for tertiary study. Most academic subjects are TAS. Examples include English, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Modern History, Languages, Accounting, Economics, Psychology, and many others. Check the SATAC website for the complete TAS list.
Precluded Combinations
| Subject Type | Cannot Include Both | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Mathematical Methods + General Mathematics + Essential Mathematics (only two allowed) | Only two mathematics subjects can count toward ATAR |
| English | Multiple English subjects (only one English subject counts) | Only one English subject can contribute to ATAR |
| Visual Arts | Visual Arts - Art + Visual Arts - Design | Only one Visual Arts subject can count |
| Design & Technology | More than 40 credits from Design, Technology & Engineering subjects | Maximum 40 credits from this area can count |
| Workplace Practices | More than 20 credits of Workplace Practices | Maximum 20 credits can count toward ATAR |
| Integrated Learning | More than 20 credits of Integrated Learning | Maximum 20 credits can count toward ATAR |
University Aggregate and the Flexible Option
Your University Aggregate is calculated from 90 credits of your best-performing Stage 2 subjects. SATAC uses a structured approach that ensures your strongest academic subjects receive priority while allowing flexibility in your final 30 credits.
Aggregate Structure
University Aggregate Composition:
Core Component (60 credits):
\[ \text{Core} = \sum_{i=1}^{3} \text{Best three 20-credit TAS subjects} \]
\[ \text{Maximum Core} = 3 \times 20.0 = 60.0 \]
Flexible Option (30 credits):
\[ \text{Flexible} = \text{Best 30 credits from remaining eligible subjects} \]
\[ \text{Maximum Flexible} = 30.0 \]
Total Aggregate:
\[ \text{University Aggregate} = \text{Core} + \text{Flexible} \]
\[ \text{Maximum Aggregate} = 90.0 \]
What Counts in the Flexible Option?
- Additional TAS subjects: Any 20-credit or 10-credit TAS subjects not used in your core 60 credits
- Valid pairs: Two 10-credit TAS subjects that form an approved valid pair (treated as equivalent to one 20-credit subject)
- Recognised Studies: Up to 20 credits from approved Recognised Studies (maximum contribution of 20 credits to aggregate)
- Research Project: Research Project A or B can contribute its scaled score to the flexible option
ATAR and University Admission
Your ATAR is the primary criterion for tertiary admission in South Australia, but universities also consider subject prerequisites, adjustment factors, portfolios, interviews, and other selection criteria. Understanding how SATAC processes applications helps you make strategic course preference decisions.
Selection Rank and Adjustment Factors
Your Selection Rank for university admission is:
\[ \text{Selection Rank} = \text{ATAR} + \text{Adjustment Factors} \]
Common Adjustment Factors include:
- Subject-based adjustments (e.g., +2.5 for Specialist Mathematics at some institutions)
- Languages Other Than English (LOTE) bonuses
- Educational Access Scheme (EAS) adjustments for disadvantage
- Regional and rural location adjustments
- Indigenous access schemes
- Elite athlete considerations
Note: Each institution sets its own adjustment caps (typically 3-5 points)
South Australian University ATAR Indicative Ranges (2026)
| University | Competitiveness | Typical ATAR Range | Example Courses |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Adelaide | Highly Competitive | 90.00 - 99.50 | Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Engineering (Honors) |
| Flinders University | Very Competitive | 80.00 - 95.00 | Clinical Sciences, Psychology (Honors), Paramedic Science |
| University of South Australia (UniSA) | Competitive | 70.00 - 90.00 | Health Sciences, Business, Architecture, Aviation |
| Torrens University | Moderate | 60.00 - 80.00 | Creative Industries, Business, Health |
| Carnegie Mellon (Adelaide) | Highly Competitive | 90.00+ | Information Systems, Computer Science |
Important: These ranges are indicative only and vary annually based on demand, available places, and applicant pool strength. Many courses offer guaranteed entry thresholds, early offer programs, and alternative pathways. Always check current requirements on the SATAC website and individual university sites.
Subject Prerequisites for University Courses
Achieving the ATAR threshold alone does not guarantee admission. Most competitive university courses require specific subject prerequisites completed at Stage 2 with minimum grades. Missing prerequisites disqualifies you from consideration regardless of your ATAR.
- Medicine/Dentistry: Chemistry (B grade or higher) + one of Physics/Biology/Mathematical Methods
- Engineering: Mathematical Methods (C or higher), Physics strongly recommended
- Science: Two of Chemistry, Physics, Biology, or Mathematical Methods (C or higher)
- Health Sciences: Biology or Chemistry, Mathematical Methods or General Mathematics (C or higher)
- Business/Commerce: General Mathematics or higher (C or higher)
- Architecture: Mathematical Methods or General Mathematics (C or higher)
- Education: English (C or higher), Mathematics for primary teaching
- Information Technology: Mathematical Methods (C or higher) strongly recommended
Assumed Knowledge vs Prerequisites
Prerequisites are mandatory requirements - you cannot gain admission without them. Assumed knowledge is strongly recommended background but not mandatory; however, lacking assumed knowledge significantly increases difficulty and risk of failing first-year subjects. Many universities offer bridging courses, summer schools, or enabling programs for students missing prerequisites or assumed knowledge.
Official Government Resources (2026)
Access official information from South Australian government authorities:
SATAC calculates all South Australian and Northern Territory ATARs and processes tertiary applications for universities and TAFE SA. Access your ATAR results, apply for courses, manage preferences, and find comprehensive guides to the application process.
The SACE Board develops curriculum, assesses student results, and awards the South Australian Certificate of Education. Access your SACE results, subject syllabuses, assessment guidelines, and educational resources through SACE Students Online.
SATAC Enquiries: (08) 8224 4000
SATAC Email: satac@satac.edu.au
SATAC Communications/Media: comms_media@satac.edu.au
SACE Board Enquiries: Visit SACE Board website for contact options
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (ACDT)
Important ATAR Dates for 2026
| Date | Event | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| August - September 2025 | 2026 Undergraduate Applications Open | Create mySATAC account and submit applications (lower fees until 30 September) |
| 30 September 2025 | Early Application Deadline | Apply by this date for lower processing fees |
| October - November 2025 | Stage 2 Assessments and Exams | Complete all school assessments and external examinations |
| 15 December 2025 | SACE Results Released - 8:30 AM (ACDT) | Access results via SACE Students Online and Tertiary Entrance Statement |
| Mid-December 2025 | ATAR Results Released | Access ATAR via SATAC (shortly after SACE results) |
| 29 January 2026 | Final Submission Date for Most Courses | Submit or update applications for first round offers |
| February 2026 | Main Offer Rounds Begin | Receive and respond to course offers |
| 24 Dec 2025 - 2 Jan 2026 | SATAC Office Holiday Closure | Note: Online applications remain available |
Strategies to Improve Your ATAR
- Choose high-scaling subjects strategically: Select subjects like Specialist Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry if they align with your strengths and career goals, as they typically receive favorable scaling
- Excel in your external assessments: External assessments contribute 30% to your raw score and form the basis for moderation. Strong exam performance is crucial for competitive ATARs
- Maintain consistent school assessment quality: School assessments contribute 70% to your raw score. Treat every assignment, test, and task with maximum effort throughout the year
- Complete the Research Project early: Finishing your Research Project in Semester 1 allows you to focus entirely on your other subjects during final exams
- Focus on your strongest TAS subjects: Your aggregate comes from your best three 20-credit TAS plus flexible 30 credits. Concentrate effort on subjects where you can achieve the highest scaled scores
- Understand moderation impact: Your school assessment marks are moderated based on your cohort's external exam performance. Encourage your classmates to also perform well in exams
- Complete all external assessments: Failing to attempt an external assessment results in a scaled score of 0.0 for that subject, which cannot contribute to your aggregate
- Consider subject workload balance: Taking six 20-credit subjects provides a buffer - if one subject underperforms, you have alternatives for your aggregate calculation
- Utilize past papers and exemplars: SACE Board publishes previous external assessments and annotated exemplars showing A-grade performance standards
- Seek academic support early: Address knowledge gaps before external assessments. Use school resources, tutoring, and subject-specific study groups
Alternative Pathways to University
The ATAR is not the only route to tertiary education. South Australian universities and TAFE SA offer numerous alternative admission pathways for students who don't meet ATAR requirements, prefer vocational routes, or wish to return to study later.
Pathway Options
- TAFE SA Pathways: Complete a Diploma or Advanced Diploma at TAFE SA, then transfer to second or third year university with credit recognition and guaranteed pathways
- Foundation Studies Programs: Universities offer foundation/enabling programs that prepare students for degree study without ATAR requirements (e.g., UniSA Foundation Studies, Flinders Preparation Program)
- Aboriginal Access Schemes: Indigenous students can access special entry programs with lower ATAR requirements and comprehensive support services
- Educational Access Scheme (EAS): Apply for special consideration if you experienced disadvantage, illness, difficult circumstances, or educational disruption during Stage 2
- Mature Age Entry: Students aged 21+ may apply based on work experience, VET qualifications, life experience, or special mature age tests rather than ATAR
- Portfolio and Audition Entry: Creative arts, performing arts, design, and music programs often use portfolios, auditions, interviews, or practical assessments as primary selection criteria
- Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT): Standardized test used for mature age applicants and some special entry programs
- VET Qualifications: Completed Certificate IV, Diploma, or Advanced Diploma can provide direct university entry with credit transfer
- Early Offer Programs: Some universities make early conditional offers to Year 12 students based on Year 11 results and predicted Year 12 performance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SACE and ATAR?
The South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) is your senior schooling certificate awarded by the SACE Board, certifying you've met educational standards and completed 200 credits of learning. The ATAR is a tertiary admission ranking calculated by SATAC specifically for university selection. You can achieve a SACE without an ATAR, but you need specific Stage 2 subject combinations and completion of 90 credits including TAS subjects to be ATAR-eligible.
Can I get a new ATAR if I'm unhappy with my result?
Yes. To qualify for a new ATAR, you must complete additional Stage 2 subjects totaling at least 90 credits (including a minimum of 60 credits from TAS). Your new ATAR will be calculated from your best subjects across all attempts, including previous years. The 90 credits must be completed within a maximum of three attempts which can occur in non-consecutive years. If you repeat a subject, the most recent result is used.
Do I have to include my Research Project in my ATAR calculation?
Completing the Research Project A or B is mandatory for ATAR eligibility, but it only contributes to your University Aggregate if it's among your best 30 credits (the flexible option). The Research Project typically receives a scaled score like any other subject. If you perform better in other subjects, the Research Project won't count toward your aggregate despite being a requirement for ATAR eligibility.
What happens if I don't attempt my external assessment?
If you don't attempt the publicly assessed component (external examination or final performance) for a subject, you will receive a scaled score of 0.0 for that subject. This 0.0 can technically be used in your University Aggregate calculation, but it will significantly reduce your aggregate and ATAR. Valid reasons for non-attendance (illness, emergency) may be considered through the Special Consideration process.
How accurate are ATAR calculators compared to official SATAC results?
ATAR calculators provide estimates based on previous years' scaling data and approximations of the SATAC methodology. Actual SATAC results may differ by 1-4 ATAR points due to annual scaling variations, cohort differences, and the complexity of the official scaling and participation rate adjustment algorithms. Use calculator estimates as a guide rather than a precise prediction. Official scaled scores and ATARs come only from SATAC.
Can I study Stage 2 subjects over more than one year?
Yes. You can complete your 90 credits of Stage 2 subjects across multiple years. Many students complete some Stage 2 subjects in Year 11 and the rest in Year 12. SATAC calculates your ATAR from your best subjects regardless of which year they were completed, provided all 90 credits are achieved within a maximum of three attempts. This allows strategic subject sequencing and second attempts if needed.
Start Your Tertiary Education Journey
Understanding your SACE ATAR is the first step toward achieving your tertiary education goals. Use this calculator to estimate your ranking, research university course requirements on the SATAC website, and explore both ATAR-based and alternative admission pathways. Remember that your ATAR is just one component of university admission - subject prerequisites, adjustment factors, portfolios, special consideration, and alternative entry schemes all provide opportunities for different pathways to higher education.
For official ATAR calculations and 2026 tertiary applications, visit SATAC.edu.au and create your mySATAC account. Applications for 2026 are now open with lower processing fees until 30 September 2025.