Most Australian universities give regional and rural students extra points. This helps offset the barriers many face. The points are added to your ATAR. Together they make up your selection rank.
Regional bonuses are usually 3 to 5 points. The amount depends on how long you’ve lived at a regional or remote postcode. Five years is common. Some universities add points for a regional campus. Hardship schemes can add more on top. Each university sets a cap, often around 10 points. Your postcode decides if you qualify. Rules vary, so check your own case.
How regional bonus points work
Regional and rural bonus points help students who live outside major cities. Universities know that country students can have less access to tutoring, subject choice and exam prep. The points make entry a little fairer.
The points are tied to your home postcode, not your school. Most students in eligible areas gain about 3 to 5 points. Each university sets its own postcode list and its own cap. The bonus usually stacks with other adjustments, but your final selection rank still cannot pass 99.95.
These points feed into your selection rank. To add school, subject or equity bonuses too, use the bonus points calculator. To check the schemes that apply to you, start with the UAC adjustment factors page and the course's own admissions page.