STAT: an alternative pathway into university

Don’t meet standard university entry requirements? STAT could help you get in.

The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) is one method of gaining university entry for people who may not have a recent or satisfactory Year 12 qualification and a corresponding tertiary admission rank (ATAR), or do not have formal qualifications. People who completed their previous studies outside Australia may also sit STAT.

STAT assesses a range of skills considered important for successful tertiary study, such as critical thinking, and understanding and analysing information. It does not test specific academic content.

Some universities use STAT results, together with other information, to make decisions about offers of places in their courses. Where STAT is accepted, it provides prospective students with a quicker and more affordable option than undertaking foundation or pre-tertiary bridging courses that can take up to six months to complete. 

There are two different STAT tests – Multiple Choice and Written English. Some institutions require a candidate to sit only one of the tests; some require both. STAT results are usually provided within four weeks and remain valid for up to three years from the date of issue, depending on individual university conditions. Prospective university students should refer to the university’s course handbook to find out whether the course they are applying for accepts STAT results, which tests are required and any other institution-specific conditions.

How do I sit the test?

The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) developed STAT and manages STAT testing for Australia (except in Western Australia which is managed by the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre).

Online tests are conducted over a secure internet connection under live (webcam) supervision. This allows you to take the test in your own home at a convenient time during available test windows.

Demonstrate your potential

In the current challenging job market, undertaking a higher education course is a concrete step you can take to develop your career. STAT is one simple option that could help you achieve your goal of commencing a university degree sooner.

Explore the STAT website for more information and remember to check individual institution requirements carefully.

 

It is the responsibility of the candidate to find out which version(s) of STAT is required by the institution to which they are applying.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to refer to the Complete Guide to STAT for detailed information and guidance about the test and to review sample questions.