Senior High School Student Info Hub

We care about our students at Western – and that includes Year 11 and 12! Made for senior high school students, this hub contains all the information you need to get started on your journey to university. Program information, upcoming events, how uni works – it’s all here in one convenient place. We’ve got you covered.

Pathways to University

There are alternate entry pathways to study at university depending on your life and educational experiences. Check out HSC True Reward, an early offer program based on Year 11 or 12 subject results rather than the ATAR. Or look into a Diploma through The College, with additional support to help you excel and move seamlessly into the second year of your chosen Bachelor degree.

No matter the pathway, we’ve got you covered.

    Take the stress out of Year 12. Apply for the
    2026 HSC True Reward program today to
    receive an offer for your dream degree as
    early as September – before your HSC
    exams begin!

    Our HSC True Reward early offer program
    will give school leavers much needed peace
    of mind, providing students with an early
    offer into most university degrees based on
    their Year 11* or Year 12 results.

Explore Our Programs

Visit our undergraduate programs page to find out what programs are on offer. Look through the program guide or explore our themed program search for inspiration.

Whether you want to be a high-school teacher, robotics extraordinaire, or aspiring lawyer, Western has something to offer.

Additional Admission Requirements

Some programs are a little different. Don't forget to check out our programs with additional requirements, like Midwifery, Medicine, Architectural Design and Music.

Discover Western

What Can I Study? Video Series

Our new What Can I Study? video series explores all the undergraduate programs available at Western, the subjects within the programs, career opportunities, and alternative pathways.

Western Webinars

If you want to explore more opportunities and programs at Western, register now to access Western Webinars on demand. We’ll keep you up to date with the latest information and guides.

HSC Study Sessions

Maximise your HSC results by enhancing your exam techniques, subject knowledge, and HSC preparation skills.

Scholarships

Western Sydney University offers $20 million in scholarships, grants and prizes every year, which includes a generous range of University and donor-funded opportunities.

Explore the range of domestic student scholarships to learn about the benefits and how to apply for scholarships you are interested in.

For scholarship information for international students, please click here.

Life at University

Western Sydney University offers over 130 different student clubs and societies you can join to meet like-minded people while you're at uni. You can live on-campus, and even take advantage of overseas study opportunities. Plus if you need support while you study, we've got you covered.

How does university work?

First up, check out How uni works to prepare yourself for life at Western. Maybe you’re the first in your family to go to university? Find out what to expect, the differences between school and uni, and tips before you begin. At Western, we’re here to help you along the way.

Hot tip: If you’re in Year 12 (or will be soon) and want to apply for a program at University or The College after high school, you’ll be looking at 'undergraduate study'. On the other hand, 'postgraduate' refers to someone who has completed a Bachelor degree and wants to take on further studies.

Your future starts here

At Western, we care how you do in all aspects of your life. We believe your future is unlimited and together the possibilities are endless.


Take the next step towards a rewarding career. Secure your spot for 2026 at Western.

Why choose Western

We are diverse, multicultural and support student success in inclusive environments, both on campus and online. As a distinctly student-centred university, we believe everyone deserves a chance to shine.

Our student support services range from online specialist counselling, disability and welfare services, to academic and personal support like PASS, library resources and MATES.*

At Western, we’ll always put your needs first – we’re here for you.

University Terminology

Browse our glossary below to learn more about terminology that's commonly used at university

Applications and Admissions

A student's Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) plus any Adjustment Factors they may be eligible for, such as Western Sydney University's Regional Adjustment Factors.

Adjustment Factors (formerly known as 'Bonus Points') give students a boost to their selection ranking when applying to university. Each university has their own Adjustment Factors. Western gives adjustment factors based on a student’s performance in HSC subjects, or where they live or study.  

A process where you choose to delay the commencement of your study by up to 12 months. 

An offer to study that is subject to the student meeting specific criteria, such as completing their HSC or meeting English language requirements.

Universities Admissions Centre processes applications for admission to most undergraduate courses at participating tertiary education institutions and provide the ATAR – Australian Tertiary Admission Rank to NSW HSC students. 

Higher Education Contribution Scheme—Higher Education Loan Program that includes up-front payment discounts and loans to assist eligible Commonwealth supported students pay their student contribution amounts.  

Studying at University

A subject is an area of study and each represents subject approximately ten hours of work per week (in-class and self-directed study time), though this varies class to class and student to student.  

Typically, students will study two half-year sessions (Autumn and Spring). These sessions run for 17 weeks each including exams.  A full-time student will study 3-4 subjects per session, while a part-time student will study 1-2 subjects per session.

A lecture involves an academic presenting themes and concepts related to a unit. Most subjects run one lecture per week to as many as 200 students.  

Tutorial classes run in smaller groups of 15 to 25 students. They allow for discussion of lecture content, student interaction and debate. Most subjects run one weekly tutorial.  

Workshops/practicals involve hands-on learning activities with professional equipment. These are typical in programs such as Health Sciences, Medicine and Nursing.  

Many degrees include a Major, made up of 80 credit points (normally 8 subjects). These subjects are closely related and allow the student to specialise in particular fields. A Sub-Major is made up of 40 credit points (normally 4 subjects). 

Programs usually contain some core, or compulsory, subjects. Some courses also have room for students to choose ‘elective’ subjects. This could be a Sub-Major or a chance to study other areas of interest.  

The date when the University finalises all enrolments. Before this date, students can drop, add or change their subjects without financial penalty. After this date, students will be charged fees for the subjects they are enrolled in.  

How to Apply

Already know what you want to study?

When applications open we will provide instructions on how to apply for your dream program. In the meantime, chat with our friendly support team to discuss any questions.

Year 12 checklist for applying through UAC
Did you know Western offers Adjustment Factors?

Do you live in the Western Sydney region? Have you achieved outstanding results in your HSC or IB subjects? Are you an elite athlete or performer? Or maybe you’ve experienced hardship and need a university that understands. You may be eligible for Adjustment Factors that take your individual circumstances into account  and can boost your selection rank.

Start your unlimited journey.

International Year 12 Students

If you are an international student completing one of the following qualifications in the calendar year prior to admission:

  • An Australian Year 12 in or outside Australia.
  • An International Baccalaureate in Australia.
  • A New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) level 3.

You can lodge your application online at UAC International.

If you have questions, please email internationalstudy@westernsydney.edu.au or call +61 2 9852 5499.

Any questions?

We understand that deciding to study at university is a daunting decision and there are a lot of questions to be answered. Let us help! Our friendly support team is made up of current students who understand what it’s like to apply for university.

Whether you need program info, application support or someone to help you find the best pathway to achieve your career goals, get in touch. We love seeing future students become current students just like us.

Our phone lines are operated Monday–Friday, 9am-4:30pm, and are closed on public holidays.