Common Myths About Getting Into Uni

We debunk popular myths about getting into uni.

This article is presented in partnership with The University of Western Australia.

Would you love to go to uni but not sure if you can get in? Maybe you're hesitant because you're not sure what you want to study? What if you pick a course and it's not your vibe?

We're here to bust some common myths about getting into uni 👇

Myth: Completing ATAR is the only pathway to uni.

Nope, not true. While most of us are taught ATAR is the main way to apply, it doesn't mean it's the only way.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers experience-based entry, which provides an incredible opportunity for students who didn't take an ATAR pathway, or are continuing their education a little later in life.

If this sounds like you, there's some great news - you can apply using a combo of academic achievements and life experiences!

Myth: If you don’t complete the right prerequisite subjects, you can’t go to uni.

Again, not true. Unlike the ATAR (or HSC), experience-based entry's points system values more than just your high school academic achievements – factoring in different studies (like TAFE, VET or other courses), life experience, work, community service, sports and other various accomplishments.

We explain how UWA’s experienced-based entry works here.

Myth: Experience-based entry limits what you can study.

False! You can apply for a range of undergraduate bachelor’s degrees and choose from a wide variety of majors 🙌

Here is a list of degrees you can access through experience-based entry at UWA (and your choice of majors is even bigger!):

• Bachelor of Arts.
• Bachelor of Biomedical Science.
• Bachelor of Business.
• Bachelor of Commerce.
• Bachelor of Environmental Design.
• Bachelor of Science.
• Bachelor of Social Work (Honours).

Or if there’s another course you’d like to study, you can get started through one of the degrees listed above before transferring to your preferred course. BTW, if you'd be keen to do this and transfer, you'll need to make sure to follow UWA's rules for transferring. 

Myth: You don’t need to go to uni to get a job.

Yes and no.

Can you get a great job without going to uni? Of course. Can you even get a job that may require a degree, without actually holding that degree? Yes, plenty of people have!

Keep in mind, some jobs may require a specific type of qualification or degree to apply. According to the Federal Education Minister, over the next 15 years more and more jobs will require a degree.

The knowledge you gain from a degree can be super valuable to employers in your chosen field, and will make you stand out from other applicants.

Myth: Once you choose your degree you're locked in.

Nope. This concern is way more common than you'd think. In fact, if you reach the end of high school without knowing exactly what you want to study, you're probably in the majority.

Unis like UWA are super flexible, allowing you to change degrees and mix-and-match units- not locking you into one path for the rest of your life (especially if you come to realise if it’s not the one for you).

Myth: You’re just a number at uni – it’s hard to make friends and find a community.

Hell no! The best part of uni for most people is the community aspect.

Don't get us wrong, earning a degree is life-changing, but your social life at uni will be some of the best memories you make. You’ll make some awesome friends at uni, and some of them will also turn out to be the most important contacts you'll have as you start your career.

You'll have more freedom at uni, and it's not super strict like school.

Uni is a fantastic place to grow and find yourself, which makes it easier to find like-minded people and bond with them. Be yourself and form close groups, or become part of even larger communities, based on common interests and just having fun.

So, how's uni sounding now? If you didn't think uni was on the cards but are now having a major rethink, find out if experience-based entry is right for you, with or without an ATAR.

Applications are open for Semester 1 2024, so visit the UWA website to learn more about how you can further your education and work your way towards the career of your dreams.