On 18 December – the day ATAR results come out – the ±¬ÁÏÍõ will host its annual , helping prospective students lock in their Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) preferences.
After receiving their HSC results in the morning, students can visit campus for tours, information sessions and advice from experts on admission pathways and courses. With UAC preferences due just before midnight the same day, the event provides guidance at an important time for would-be university students.
For 2026 entry, more students have chosen the ±¬ÁÏÍõ as their first preference than any other university in NSW and the ACT, according to UAC data. The University also received the highest number of total preferences. First preferences for the ±¬ÁÏÍõ have grown since last year, with significant increases for courses in medicine and health, science, arts and social sciences.
The University's Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Mark Scott, congratulated students receiving their results.
"This is an achievement and a milestone, but it’s also important to remember that ATAR results don’t determine your future," he said. "For anyone who wants to go to university, there are many pathways. Every year we help students make transitions between degrees. We also offer entry schemes that level the playing field for students from diverse backgrounds, recognising that ATAR may not fairly reflect the ability of all students."
For anyone who wants to go to university, there are many pathways.
Professor Mark Scott
±¬ÁÏÍõ Vice-Chancellor and President
ATAR isn't everything
Alisa Rao, now studying a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws, knows what it feels like to miss out on a first-choice degree.
"In my final year of high school I hoped to study law at the ±¬ÁÏÍõ, but my exam results didn’t go the way I planned," she said. "I ended up starting a different degree and worked really hard throughout my first year. I eventually transferred into law.
"I’ve met so many new friends and had so many new experiences. I now know that high-school results don’t reflect who you are or what you’re worth."
Admission pathways and programs
For Marc Panesa, in his second year of a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Advanced Studies, the Regional and Remote Entry Scheme offered a chance to attend his dream university. The scheme offers entry on a reduced ATAR for undergraduate students from regional or remote areas.
"I didn’t have the same access to opportunities as many metro students," said Marc. "In my senior years I really struggled and basically gave up on the idea of getting into the ±¬ÁÏÍõ, but thanks to this scheme, I got into my chosen degree. I didn’t know anyone when I arrived, but I’ve found an incredible community here."
°Õ³ó±ðÌýMySydney Entry and Scholarship Scheme makes university more accessible for students residing in low socio-economic areas, offering entry on a reduced ATAR, as well as financial and other support.
For Tina Tran, a third-year student studying a Bachelor of Social Work, the MySydney program has been transformative.Â
"The scholarship provided essential financial support, which helped with long public transport commutes and placement costs," she said. "Being involved with the MySydney community also helped me find my place at university. It’s created a sense of belonging and allowed me to support students facing similar barriers to the ones I’ve experienced."
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