Class of 2025
Caringbah Careers Newsletter
Final Weeks, Final Feels
Caringbah Career News
Published - 11th September 2025
Book a Careers Meeting
Careers Adviser Update
13 years. 2 weeks. One Chapter Closing. Another Just Beginning.
In just a couple of weeks, your final school bell will ring. The one that comes after the last farewell from a favourite teacher, the last “all eyes on you” entry to the hall to music that makes you cry (don’t forget your tissues!), and the last afternoon in the playground / on the oval / senior lawn with friends you have grown up alongside for six years (or more).
Before the next chapter opens… take a breath. Look around. Think about the people, the moments, and the memories that shaped you here. The teachers who saw something in you. The friends who had your back. The laughs you’ll still tell stories about. You are wrapping up a pretty incredible chapter… one you will always carry with you.
This newsletter isn’t about panic or pressure; it’s about presence, preparation, and perspective. You’ve done the groundwork - now it’s time to finish strong, trust your instincts, and pull together a few final threads.
In this penultimate newsletter for the Class of 2025, we’re pulling together a few last essentials:
Elite Athletes & Performers: If you’ve been training, competing, or performing at a high level, this section is for you.
Alternate Entry & Additional Selection Criteria: For those using creative portfolios, audition processes, or other unique application pathways.
The Feel-Good Bit – Your well-earned hit of inspiration for the month (and one of my favourite TED Talks).
Let’s close this chapter with clarity, confidence, and connection. You’re almost there.
Mrs Poppett & Mr Chisholm
The Year 12 Checklist
University Admissions - TACs (May)
Exploring Study Pathways (May)
Early Entry & SRS (July)
Adjustment Factors (July)
Alternate Entry Schemes (July)
EAS & Equity Scholarships (July)
Additional Selection Criteria (August)
Cadetships (August)
Medicine & Dentistry (August)
Scholarships (August)
Plan B - Transferring (August)
Elite Athletes, Performers & Leaders (September)
The In-Between Bit - Post HSC, Pre-Results Bit!
Success Beyond the HSC (October)
Look Ahead - September Edition
Mark your Calendars
Important Dates - September Edition
NSW/ACT Undergraduate (domestic and international students): Early bird fee applications for 2026 admissions close (to avoid higher processing charges, complete, pay and submit your application by midnight) - 30th September 2025
SRS Applications Close for 2025 - 5th September 2025
ACU Guarantee - Open 21st July 2025 - Closing 15th September 2025 - Apply HERE
Macquarie University Leaders & Achievers Early Entry Program - Opening 16th June - Closing 25th July (Round 1) and 2nd September (Round 2) - Apply HERE
Southern Cross Early Entry - Application Open 2nd April 2025 - Closing 30th September Apply HERE
UNSW Gateway Early Entry - Round 1 - Open 31st March 2025 - Closing 23rd July 2025 + Round 2 - Open 4th September 2025 - Closing 12th November 2025 Apply HERE - Eligibility requirements! Watch Video
Notre Dame Young Achievers Early Offer - Open 1st May 2025- Closing Round 1 - 19th August, Closing Round 2 - 13th September, Closing Round 3 - 26th September, Closing Round 4 - 1st December 2025 - Apply HERE
(NEW) UTS Early Entry - Open - 4th June 2025 - Closing 8th September 2025 - Apply HERE
Round 1 WSU (True Reward) - Year 11 Results - Closing 3rd September 2025 - Apply HERE
School Recommendation Scheme (SRS) - OPEN -Closing 5th September 2025 - Explore SRS HERE - Application to be made through your UAC portal
USYD Conservatorium of Music - Audition Round 1 Registration - Opening 29th April - Closing - 22nd June 2025 + Round 2 Closing 7th September + Musical Theatre 7th September - Get Started HERE
USYD Conservatorium of Music - Audition Dates - 7th - 11th July (Round 1) + 29th September - 3rd October (Round 2) + 27th September (Musical Theatre -Invitation only) Example Audition Guide
UNSW Portfolio Entry - Round 1 Opening 5th May 2025 - Closing 21st July 2025 + Round 2 Opening 6th September - Closing 17th November - Get Started HERE
Art, Design & Architecture Portfolio Entry
Faculty of Engineering Admission Scheme
Learn more HERE
UCAT Results Delivered to Universities - Early September 2025
UNSW Medicine Applications - UAC + Direct UNSW Application + Interview - Closing 30th September 2025 - Get Started HERE
WSU Medicine Applications - UAC + MMI- UAC Applications for WSU Medicine close 25th September 2025 - Get Started HERE - WATCH ME
Newcastle & UNE (Joint Medical Program) Applications - UAC + Direct JMP Application - Closing 30th September 2025 - Get Started HERE - Watch Me
La Trobe Biomedical Science (Medicine) Applications - VTAC Application + La Trobe Direct Applications Opening through VTAC July 2025 - Get Started HERE
James Cook University Medicine Applications - QTAC Application + Direct JCU Application - Closing 30th September 2025 - Get Started HERE
James Cook University Dentistry Applications - QTAC Application + Direct JCU Application - Closing 30th September 2025 - Get Started HERE
University of Tasmania Medicine Applications - Direct Application to UTAS - Closing 30th September 2025 (TBC)- Get Started HERE
Curtin University Medicine Applications - TISC Application + Direct Curtin Application - Closing Date TBC - Get Started HERE - Admissions Guide
UNSW LAT Registration - Opening 12th May - Closing 11th August 2025 (Late Entries Close - 8th September - late fees apply) - Get Started HERE
UNSW LAT Exam - 30th September 2025
UTS BAcct. Scholarship - Round 1 CLOSED - Round 2 Closing 10th October 2025 - Get Started HERE
UNE Direct Early Entry - Open March 2025 - Closing Round 1 - July, Closing Round 2 - October 2025 - Apply HERE
UNSW Gateway Early Entry - Round 1 - Open 31st March 2025 - Closing 23rd July 2025 + Round 2 - Open 4th September 2025 - Closing 12th November 2025 Apply HERE - Eligibility requirements! Watch Video
USYD Conservatorium of Music - Audition Dates - 7th - 11th July (Round 1) + 29th September - 3rd October (Round 2) + 27th September (Musical Theatre -Invitation only) Example Audition Guide
UNSW Portfolio Entry - Round 1 Opening 5th May 2025 - Closing 21st July 2025 + Round 2 Opening 6th September - Closing 17th November - Get Started HERE
Art, Design & Architecture Portfolio Entry
Faculty of Engineering Admission Scheme
Learn more HERE
Career Events & Activities in August / September
Industry Information Webinars: Register for all events HERE
Interaction Design at Sydney - Creativity & Innovation - 3rd September - 4pm
Study Mathematical Sciences at Sydney - 10th September - 4pm
Sydney College of the Arts Portfolio Evening (In-Person) - 16th September - 4pm
Sydney College of the Arts Portfolio Evening (Online) - 16th September - 4:30pm
Why Study Civil Engineering at Sydney - 17th September - 4pm
Scholarships at Sydney - 17th September - 5pm
University Open Days
Wollongong University - 28th June 2025
Western Sydney University - 6th July 2025
Macquarie University - 16th August 2025
University of Sydney - 30th August 2025
UTS - 30th August 2025
UTS - 30th August 2025
Notre Dame - 30th August 2025
UNSW, Sydney - 6th September 2025
Australian Catholic University (ACU) - 6th September (North Sydney), 17th August (Strathfield)
The Year 12 Checklist - September Edition
Not every door is opened by an ATAR alone. In fact, more and more universities are recognising what we’ve always known: you’re more than just a number. Whether you've spent years training at elite sporting levels, performing on stage, leading in your community, building creative portfolios, overcoming challenges, or staying deeply connected to culture and Country - there are entry programs designed to acknowledge and support your unique journey.
In this month’s Checklist, we explore pathways that reward passion, perseverance, and potential:
EAPL (Elite Athletes, Performers & Leaders) schemes
Portfolio Entry programs & Alternate Entry and adjustment factor opportunities
Indigenous Admission Pathways—which prioritise community, identity, and holistic support
Step Eleven - Elite Athletes, Performers & Leaders
If you've spent the last few years juggling school with 6am training, music exams, competitions, tournaments, showcases…or if you've taken on significant leadership roles…this one's for you. Universities recognise the dedication, time, and skill it takes to perform at a high level outside the classroom. That’s where the Elite Athletes, Performers, and Leaders (EAPL) programs come in.
These are specialist admission schemes designed to support students who’ve excelled in areas like:
Competitive sport (state, national, or international level)
Music (AMEB qualifications, performance experience)
Dance, drama, or the arts
Leadership (such as school captain, Queen’s Scout/Guide Awards, or other formal leadership roles)
How to Apply?
How to apply:
Many universities now use UAC to manage their EAPL applications—you’ll see a section for this when you log into your UAC account. But be careful: some universities (like UNSW) manage this process independently. You’ll need to apply directly to them as well. Always check the individual university websites to be sure you’re not missing a step!
Hot tip:
Some universities (like UNSW) clearly list how many adjustment factors are available for each category and level or performance. So if you're a top-level musician, athlete, or community leader, you can estimate where your strengths might translate to real ATAR boosts. Check out the UNSW EALP table of achievements, as linked to adjustment factor eligibility HERE.
What you’ll need:
Written references from coaches, instructors, or program coordinators
Evidence of your achievements
A bit of time to carefully complete the EAPL application form
Bonus tip:
If you’re heading towards a competitive university sporting program, reach out to their Elite Athlete Program coordinators before applying… there are often additional benefits and scholarships once you're enrolled.
Common Categories for Elite Athletes, Performers & Leaders
When applying through the Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EALP) scheme, it's not just about listing achievements—it's about demonstrating commitment, capability, and how these experiences have shaped you. Use the examples below to identify your strengths, and read the "why it matters" section for tips on what to highlight in your application.
Academic - Have you stretched yourself beyond the classroom and been recognised at a high level?
Recognition for outstanding performance in academic competitions or enrichment programs beyond the classroom - e.g. Olympiad Participant, National Schools Debating, Chess League, Australian Mathematics Competition.
Why it matters: Shows a history of high achievement and critical thinking, which universities value as indicators of future academic success.
Leadership - Have you taken initiative and made an impact in your school or community?
Formal leadership roles where you’ve demonstrated responsibility, initiative, and contribution to your school or wider community - e.g. Duke of Edinburgh, Queen’s Scout, School Captain, State Youth Governor.
Why it matters: Leadership experience indicates maturity, initiative and the ability to thrive in a university setting where independence and teamwork are key.
Sport - Have you juggled training and competition at a high level alongside schoolwork?
Representative-level sport participation that shows discipline, commitment, and time-management - e.g. State and National Team and Individual Participation and Achievement
Why it matters: Demonstrates the ability to balance training, travel and study - essential skills for university life. Many universities also offer support programs for elite athletes once enrolled.
Performance - Have your creative talents moved an audience, lit up a stage, or earned recognition beyond your school walls?
High-level performance in creative fields—music, dance, drama, or visual arts - e.g. AMEB Grade 8 and above, Role in professional theatre, TV or film production, Australian Youth Orchestra, National Choir.
Why it matters: Shows creativity, discipline and passion…plus the ability to perform under pressure and work collaboratively in ensembles or teams.
University EAPL Scheme & Application Links
USYD - Elite Athletes & Performers Scheme & Additional Information - Closing 31st October 2025 (UAC)
UNSW - Elite Athletes, Performers, Leaders Scheme - EAPL Adjustment Factor Table - Closing 28th November 2025
UTS - Elite Athletes & Performer Scheme - Closing 1st December 2025
Macquarie - Elite Athletes & Artistic Performers Scheme + Sports Scholar Program - 20th November 2025 (UAC)
Western - Elite Athletes or Performers Scheme (UAC)
ACU - Elite Athletes & Performers Scheme + EAPP Application Form
Athletes - Explore Elite Athlete Programs
Start here…
USYD - Elite Athlete Program + Scholarship
UNSW - Elite Athlete Program + Scholarship Booklet
Macquarie - Elite Athlete Sport Scholarship Program
Western - Elite Athlete Program
Step Twelve - Alternate Entry Pathways
Did you know that only 1 in 4 students now enter university based on their ATAR alone?
That’s right … new research by the Mitchell Institute at Victoria University has shown that the ATAR is no longer the full story. Instead, there's a growing recognition that academic marks are just one part of who you are. Your skills, experiences, values, leadership, creative thinking, and even your community involvement all matter.
So, what does this mean for you?
It means there are now more doors open - and more ways to step through them. From early entry programs to portfolio pathways, universities are offering a range of alternate admission schemes that consider the whole person, not just a number. These schemes reward things like your initiative, effort, and unique talents …so don’t rule yourself out just because your ATAR might not land where you want it to.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular and accessible alternate entry schemes that students just like you have used successfully in the past. Explore them, ask questions, and see which ones might be the best fit for your story and strengths.
Portfolio Entry Programs
A Portfolio Entry Scheme lets you apply to university using evidence beyond just your ATAR. We are talking artwork, creative projects, leadership roles, community work, or other achievements. It gives you the chance to showcase your passion, creativity, and unique experience, not just exam marks.
Read about UNSW, UTS & USYD Portfolio Programs as published on their websites…
UNSW - Portfolio Offer Scheme
The UNSW Portfolio Entry Scheme offers early conditional offers for select degrees across UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture and UNSW Engineering, giving you the opportunity to showcase your passion and talent alongside your ATAR. Successful applicants will receive an early conditional offer with an adjusted ATAR entry requirement of up to 10 ATAR points below the lowest selection rank for a specific degree or range of related degrees.
USYD - Portfolio Admissions Pathways
The portfolio admissions pathway can help you gain entry into our programs if you achieve close to the required ATAR (or equivalent). In conjunction with the HSC and other formal assessment systems, it assists the University in identifying students who have the potential to excel in architecture or interaction design. This means you could be accepted into your dream degree, even if your ATAR falls short of the course cut-off.
UTS - Design Portfolio Scheme
The portfolio scheme allows non-current school leavers to apply for undergraduate Design courses using their portfolio rather than academic results. If you’re worried your academic results may not get you a place in your course, consider applying through the scheme. If you're looking to submit a portfolio for our architecture courses (architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture), please visit our Architecture portfolio scheme.
Faculty Specific Programs & Pathways
STEM
Design, Creative Arts & Built Environment
Bachelor of Music Audition (MQ) - Direct Entry
Business & Law
Medicine
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Entry Pathways
The Feel Good Bit - Back Yourself
You’ve Got This
You’ve made it to the final stretch of school.
Not by accident.
Not by luck.
But by showing up. Day after day. Year after year.
You’ve studied. You’ve worked. You’ve chosen subjects that reflect your interests, your values, your hopes for what life might become.
You’ve said yes to opportunities.
You’ve tried things that scared you.
You’ve failed and got back up.
You’ve built friendships that might last a lifetime.
You’ve put your trust in a version of yourself that was still figuring it all out.
And guess what?
You did it. Still becoming.
The HSC is one more milestone. But it’s not your full story. It never was.
“You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward.”
— Steve Jobs, Stanford Commencement Speech
So back yourself.
You’ve come further than you think.
And what’s next?
It won’t always be predictable.
But it will be yours.
The now-famous speech that changed how so many young people see purpose, resilience, and failure. Jobs reflects on being fired from Apple, facing cancer, and learning to trust his gut… even when the path made no sense at the time.
“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.”
After the bell - Alumni Profile & Words of Wisdom
Name: Lana Johnson
Class of: 2006
Career path: Health Care - Physiotherapy
Current role: CEO BPS Tensegrity - Physiotherapy and Pilates
Favourite subject in High School? PDHPE
How would you describe a day in your role?
50% Clinical: Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Diagnosis and Rehab Programs
50% Business: Staff Meetings, External Service provider meetings, Marketing and Sales
Advice for students exploring your industry: Don't be afraid of failure, anything is possible once you realise that failing is a natural part of success!