Information for Parents, Guardians and Supporters
Helping you support their journey
Supporting your high school student as they take their first steps toward a career is one of the most powerful ways to shape their future. At CQUniversity, we're here to support you with the tools and insights you need to guide them confidently.
We've tailored resources to suit each stage of high school, so you can easily find information that's relevant to your child's year level. Whether they’re still exploring possibilities or already pursuing a dream, your support can make all the difference.
Not sure where to start? Take a look at our study levels explained and course options at CQU. Explore courses and pathways and discover what's possible.
Year-by-year guidance
Year 9 - 10
As your teen begins working on their Senior Education and Training (SET) plan, they're exploring subjects that might spark their passion and shape their future.
Have open conversations about their interests without pressure. Ask what classes they enjoy most and share stories from your own educational experiences. The subjects they select now might influence their options after graduation, so taking a few minutes to check prerequisites for courses they're interested in can keep doors open.
Your gentle guidance now helps them build the confidence to make informed choices when it really counts.
Exploring career options can be exciting and a little overwhelming.
Our career resources introduce a wide range of occupations and help your teen reflect on their strengths, interests, and values. These tools are designed to support meaningful conversations and guide them toward a career that feels rewarding and right for them.
These micro-credentials are designed to support Year 9 and 10 students. They are aligned to The Australian Blueprint for Career Education, as well as to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)
The ATAR is a national measure of high school academic achievement and ranges between 30 and 99.95 as the highest score. We use this score to determine if your teen meets the entry score for their chosen course.
Selection Rank (SR)
Entry score requirements can also be satisfied by a SR. A SR is calculated based on a number of different achievements, which may include adjustment points made to an ATAR score, completion of a TAFE certificate or diploma or other learning activities.
You can receive both an ATAR and SR. The better score will be used to determine your eligibility.
Most schools ask students to start thinking about their senior subjects during Year 9 or 10.
This is a great time to sit down with your teen and explore the prerequisites or recommended study for any courses they're interested in.
Pre-requisites
Pre-requisites are the subjects your teen must complete in high school to gain entry into their chosen course.
Recommended Study
Recommended Study refers to subjects that are not required for entry, but will better prepare your teen for their chosen course.
Pre-requisites and recommended study ensure students have the right level of foundation to begin their course. Both are listed on individual course pages, so it's a good idea to consider these when selecting senior subjects.
Learn more about Pre-requisites and Recommended Study.
CQU offers a range of in-school study options that allows them to get a head start on their future and experience uni while still in high school.
Start Uni Now (SUN)
Start Uni Now (SUN) offers Year 10*, 11 and 12 students the opportunity to study CQUniversity units from a degree-level course while still in secondary school.
*Year 10 students are eligible for Term 3 (November) intake only.
Year 11 - 12
Your teen's final school years aren't just about achieving a senior certificate and ATAR. There are multiple pathways to success, and understanding these options takes pressure off everyone.
Whether they're considering university, certificates, diplomas, or apprenticeships, each path offers unique advantages. Did you know completing a certificate III or higher at school can provide an alternative university entry rank? Many students also combine VET qualifications or Higher Education studies with their high school studies.
Help them research different options and connect with people in fields they're curious about. By exploring possibilities, you're helping them find a path that matches both their academic strengths and personal goals.
Exploring career options can be exciting and a little overwhelming.
Our career resources introduce a wide range of occupations and help your teen reflect on their strengths, interests, and values. These tools are designed to support meaningful conversations and guide them toward a career that feels rewarding and right for them.
These micro-credentials are designed to support Year 11 and 12 students. They are aligned to The Australian Blueprint for Career Education, as well as to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
CQU offers a range of in-school study options that allows your teen get a head start on their future and experience TAFE or uni while still in high school.
Start Uni Now (SUN)
Start Uni Now (SUN) offers Year 10*, 11 and 12 students the opportunity to study CQUniversity units from a degree-level course while still in secondary school.
*Year 10 students are eligible for Term 3 (November) intake only.
Start TAFE Now (STN)
Start TAFE Now (STN) is ideal for Year 11 and 12 students, providing an opportunity to study certificate I, II and III level courses in a wide variety of disciplines.
Understanding university costs early can make higher education feel more achievable.
To help your family plan ahead, we’ve included a range of resources to give a clear picture of what studying at CQU might cost. You’ll find information on course fees, financial support options, including government schemes, loans and scholarships your teen may be eligible for.
We've compiled a list of webpages to help and your teen navigate this important step. Here you'll find useful information about where to apply, what they'll need and important dates to keep in mind.
It's important to remember that there is often multiple ways to get into university.
Not studying an ATAR? Or looking like your teen won't meet the entry requirements for their dream course?
Additional resources
External resources
These resources offer practical advice, tools and guidance to help your young person make informed decision about study, training and career options.
Download a Study Guide
Looking for the latest printed publication to explore your options at CQU? Download one of our course directories or specialist guides to help you decide.
Future Student Events
Register for an upcoming event for answers to your questions about courses, the application process and all the info you need to start studying at CQU.
Preparing for the next steps
Your teen has applied, what happens next?
From receiving an offer, to enrolment and orientation, to the student experience at CQU, there are plenty of ways you can help them feel confident and ready to begin. Encourage them to ask questions, explore resources, and take those first steps with purpose.
We’re here to support both of you every step of the way.
