ATAR for Commerce and Business

What ATAR do you need for commerce?

Commerce and business cut-offs range widely, from about 75 to 96. Few fields have such a spread, so where you can study depends a lot on the university.

The most competitive programs, such as commerce at UNSW and Melbourne, sit near the top, often 95 or above. Many strong universities offer commerce in the high 70s to mid 80s, and business degrees at other universities can sit lower again.

The major matters too. High-demand majors like finance, economics and actuarial studies can sit above the general commerce cut-off. Actuarial studies in particular is one of the most competitive.

Do you need maths for commerce?

This depends on the university and the major. Many commerce degrees assume you have done a solid level of maths. And some formally require the intermediate methods-level subject.

Quantitative majors, such as actuarial studies, econometrics and finance, are where maths matters most. Some require specialist maths, and all of them are easier if you have a strong maths background.

Even where maths is not a formal prerequisite, it is worth doing. A commerce degree involves statistics and quantitative work, so arriving with good maths makes the first year much smoother.

Getting in with a lower ATAR

Because business and commerce are offered so widely, a lower ATAR still leaves plenty of options. Many universities offer strong business degrees with cut-offs in the 70s.

A diploma of business or commerce, often run by a university's pathway college, is a common route. It leads into the degree with credit, usually into second year.

Adjustment factors, such as subject bonus points or a regional scheme, also lift your selection rank. For competitive commerce programs, a few bonus points can make a real difference at the cut-off.

Majors, double degrees and where to apply

A commerce degree usually lets you choose a major, such as accounting, finance, marketing or management, and often a second major. Double degrees, such as commerce with law or engineering, are popular and can sit higher.

You apply through your state admissions centre. And your ATAR is calculated the same way wherever you sit Year 12. Use the calculator above as a guide, then confirm the current cut-off, and any maths requirement, for the specific programs on your list.