Ep 88 - How Many VCE Subjects Should You Do?

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What we’re talking about:

I’m talking to anyone who is choosing and finalising their VCE subjects, and I’m answering the question “How many VCE subjects should I do?”

2:13 How many VCE subjects do you need to get an ATAR?

According to VCAA, you have to do an English subject, and then at least 3 other VCE subjects (so 4 VCE subjects in total). Most schools will have their own rules about what they expect their students to do, but officially, you only need to complete 4 VCE subjects.

3:54 How will your ATAR be calculated?

See the episode linked below that goes through this in detail, but understanding how your ATAR will be calculated is important when you’re weighing up how many subjects you need to do. The important part for today’s discussion, is that the main part of your ATAR is calculated from your English result, your next top 3 results, and then 10% of a 5th subject and 6th subject if you do it.

5:57 Should you do a 6th VCE subject?

Knowing how your ATAR is calculated, I have some questions for you to consider if you’re trying to decide whether or not to do a 6th subject. Is it a prerequisite? Is it something you’re really interested in? Is it very different to your other subjects so it will help you feel more balanced in Year 12?

7:42 Don’t do a 6th VCE subject to try to get a better ATAR

Yes, it’s true that you will get 10% of your 6th subject added to your aggregate. But what’s the cost of doing that subject? Will doing that subject mean that you don’t have as much time to focus on your other subjects? If that’s the case, then you could actually end up with a lower aggregate and ATAR than if you had just completed 5 subjects and scored higher in those subjects. Listen as I explain it using calculations to make it more clear.

Links mentioned:

Work with me: https://www.roadmapeducation.com/services

How Are ATARs Calculated? https://www.roadmapeducation.com/podcast/58