Are you planning to study psychology and wondering what the ATAR needed for psychology is? Psychology is one of the most popular university courses in Australia, attracting students who are fascinated by human behavior, mental health, and social interactions. Because of its popularity, entry requirements can be competitive — but they also vary depending on the university and the type of psychology program you choose.
This article will help you understand what ATAR you’ll need to get into a psychology degree, what factors affect entry scores, and what options are available if your ATAR doesn’t meet the requirements.
What Is the ATAR Needed for Psychology?
The ATAR needed for psychology typically ranges between 70 and 95, depending on the university, the program’s level of demand, and the year’s applicant pool. High-ranking universities or programs with limited places (such as a Bachelor of Psychology Honours) usually have higher cut-offs, while more general degrees (like Bachelor of Arts with a psychology major) may have lower entry scores.
As a general guide:
- Bachelor of Psychology (Honours): ATAR between 90 – 95+
- Bachelor of Psychological Science: ATAR between 75 – 90
- Bachelor of Arts (Psychology Major): ATAR between 70 – 85
These numbers are indicative and can vary each year based on applicant demand and course availability. Some universities also offer adjustment factors (previously called bonus points) for students with strong performance in relevant subjects, or for those from regional or disadvantaged backgrounds.
Why the ATAR for Psychology Varies
The ATAR needed for psychology depends on several factors, including:
- University ranking and reputation: Highly ranked universities tend to have higher entry requirements due to competition.
- Course type: Standalone Bachelor of Psychology degrees usually require higher ATARs than general arts or science degrees that include psychology as a major.
- Program demand: If a course has limited spots or high interest, the ATAR cut-off will rise.
- Location: Metropolitan universities often have higher entry requirements than regional institutions.
Keep in mind that the published ATAR cut-off is the minimum score of the last student admitted in the previous intake — it’s not a fixed number. Each year, the required ATAR may change based on demand and available places.
Example ATAR Cut-Offs for Psychology Degrees
While each institution sets its own entry threshold, here’s an overview of typical ranges for psychology-related courses across Australia:
| Program Type | Approximate ATAR Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) | 90 – 95+ | Highly competitive; includes built-in Honours year. |
| Bachelor of Psychological Science | 75 – 90 | More accessible entry; provides pathway to Honours. |
| Bachelor of Arts (Psychology Major) | 70 – 85 | Flexible degree structure with multiple subject choices. |
| Bachelor of Science (Psychology Major) | 75 – 88 | Includes more emphasis on biological and research-based components. |
These ranges are intended as a general guide. Always check the latest university handbook or admissions website for current entry requirements.
Subjects That Help You Prepare for Psychology
While ATAR scores are important, taking the right high school subjects can also strengthen your application and prepare you for university-level psychology. Recommended subjects include:
- English: Essential for reading and writing research papers and essays.
- Mathematics (especially statistics): Psychology relies heavily on data interpretation and research analysis.
- Biology: Provides a foundation for understanding brain function and behavior.
- Social Sciences: Subjects like sociology or history can help you understand human behavior in context.
Strong performance in these subjects can sometimes earn you subject adjustment points, improving your selection rank and boosting your chances of admission even if your ATAR is slightly below the cut-off.
Alternative Pathways if You Don’t Meet the ATAR Requirement
Didn’t achieve the ATAR needed for psychology? Don’t worry — there are several alternative pathways into psychology programs in Australia. Many universities offer flexible entry routes, including:
- Foundation or bridging programs: Short preparatory courses designed to help you meet academic entry standards.
- Diploma of Psychology or Social Science: Completing a diploma can allow you to transfer into the second year of a bachelor’s program.
- Pathway through another degree: Start in a related field, such as health science or arts, then apply to transfer into psychology after your first year based on your grades.
- Special entry schemes: Some universities offer consideration for mature-age students, Indigenous applicants, or those with work or life experience.
These pathways can be just as effective as a direct ATAR entry and may even provide a smoother academic transition into university life.
How Adjustment Factors Affect Your ATAR
Adjustment factors (formerly known as bonus points) can significantly influence whether you meet the ATAR needed for psychology. They don’t change your actual ATAR, but they can increase your selection rank — the score universities use when making offers.
Adjustment factors are often awarded for:
- High achievement in specific subjects (like biology or math).
- Living in a regional or remote area.
- Educational disadvantage or financial hardship.
- Elite performance in sport or other extracurricular activities.
Each university applies adjustment factors differently, so check the specific scheme for the institution you’re applying to.
ATAR Requirements for Honours and Postgraduate Psychology
Completing an undergraduate psychology degree is just the first step if you plan to become a registered psychologist in Australia. To continue toward registration, you’ll need to complete an APAC-accredited Honours year or equivalent fourth-year program. Entry into Honours is competitive and typically requires:
- A high GPA or WAM (Weighted Average Mark): Usually a distinction average (70%+).
- Strong research performance: Including solid grades in statistics and methodology subjects.
- Completion of an accredited psychology major: Only APAC-accredited undergraduate programs qualify.
For postgraduate programs such as a Master of Psychology (Clinical, Counselling, or Organizational), entry is based on academic performance, research experience, and interviews rather than ATAR scores.
Tips for Achieving the ATAR Needed for Psychology
If psychology is your dream career, start preparing early to maximize your ATAR score. Here are some strategies to help you reach your goal:
- Set realistic goals: Research the ATAR cut-offs for your preferred universities and aim slightly higher.
- Focus on high-scaling subjects: Subjects like advanced English, mathematics, and science can boost your ATAR.
- Seek academic support: Attend tutoring sessions, study groups, or mentoring programs.
- Balance workload and well-being: Mental health plays a big role in consistent academic performance.
- Use adjustment schemes wisely: Apply for all available equity or subject-based bonus points.
Beyond ATAR: Other Admission Factors
While the ATAR needed for psychology is the primary admission criterion for school leavers, universities may also consider other factors such as:
- Personal statements or written responses demonstrating your interest in psychology.
- Interviews for specific programs, particularly Honours or postgraduate degrees.
- Portfolio submissions in cases of alternative entry pathways.
These additional components can strengthen your application and show your commitment to studying psychology.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the ATAR needed for psychology is a crucial step in planning your academic journey. While entry requirements differ by university and program, achieving a strong ATAR and selecting the right subjects in high school will give you a clear advantage. Even if your score falls short, alternative pathways and adjustment factors ensure there are still plenty of ways to pursue your dream of studying psychology.
Whether your goal is to become a clinical psychologist, researcher, or counselor, your journey starts with the right preparation — and a psychology degree can open the door to a world of fascinating and meaningful careers.