GPA vs ATAR: what universities actually look at

GPA · Hayzum editors · 22/08/2026 · Updated 31/08/2026

ATAR is a rank of a Year 12 cohort. GPA is an average of university grades, usually on a 4.0 or 7.0 scale depending on the institution.

If you are applying from school, admissions centres still start with ATAR and subject prerequisites. If you are applying as a current or previous university student, selection officers often look at GPA, failed units, and whether you meet assumed knowledge.

Use the ATAR calculator to plan a school-leaver offer, and the GPA calculator when you are already enrolled. Do not convert one into the other and expect an official result.

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Hayzum editors

Education editor

We write calculator explainers for Australian students.

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