For new high school students in Victoria!

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What is the VCE?

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The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) is the senior secondary school qualification in the state of Victoria. It is usually completed over two years (Year 11 and Year 12) and is recognised nationally and internationally as a certificate of achievement for completing high school.

Completing the VCE is the main pathway to enter Australian universities and TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions.

Who Takes the VCE?

• Most students aged 16–18 in Victoria attend Year 11 and Year 12 and complete the VCE

• International students studying at Victorian secondary schools also complete the VCE to qualify for university entry in Australia

• You can start VCE studies once you complete Year 10 (or equivalent)

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Structure of the VCE

The VCE is made up of units, with each unit generally representing one semester.

• Each subject (e.g., English, Maths, Chemistry) is divided into 4 units:

  • Units 1 & 2 are usually studied in Year 11 (some schools allow you to do Units 1 & 2 for one subject in Year 10)

  • Units 3 & 4 are usually studied in Year 12 (usually students take one Units 3 & 4 subject in Year 11 to lighten the workload in Year 12)

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Subjects and Units

• Students choose from a wide variety of subjects across areas like English, Maths, Sciences, Humanities, Languages, Arts, and Technologies

• You usually study 4 to 6 subjects each year

• You must complete at least 16 units (English is compulsory) to get the VCE certificate

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English Requirement

• English is compulsory in the VCE

• You can choose from several English-related subjects, such as:

  • English (the most common)

  • Literature (harder)

  • EAL (if English is your second language)

• Universities often require satisfactory completion of an English subject

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Assessment

School-Based Assessment

• For Units 1 and 2 (Year 11), assessment is usually based on school tests, assignments, and exams

• For Units 3 and 4 (Year 12), assessment includes:

  • School-assessed coursework (assignments, projects)

  • External exams conducted by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)

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External Exams

• Year 12 students sit for VCE exams for Units 3 and 4 subjects

• These exams are very important because they affect your ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank)

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What is the ATAR?

• The ATAR is a percentile rank between 0 and 99.95 that shows your position relative to other students (it’s ranked against everyone in the state!)

• It is used by universities to select students for entry into courses

• Your ATAR is calculated based on your best four scaled VCE subjects, including your English score

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How to Earn the VCE Certificate

To be awarded the VCE certificate, you must:

• Successfully complete at least 16 units, including:

• Meet the attendance and school policies of your school

• Pass assessments and exams

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Important Tips for New Students in Victoria

• English proficiency: Improving your English will help you perform better in VCE subjects and exams

• Course selection: Choose subjects that match your interests and future university/course plans

• Seek support: Schools offer support programs, tutoring, and language assistance for international students

• Understand deadlines: Keep track of assignment due dates and exam schedules

• Balance your workload: Manage time well, as the VCE can be demanding

• Check university prerequisites: Different university courses may require specific VCE subjects and minimum scores

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Support Services

• Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA): The official body managing the VCE

• School International Student Coordinators: Staff who help international students adjust and succeed

• English Language Support: Many schools offer EAL (English as an Additional Language) support

• Study groups and tutoring: Join groups or seek extra help to stay on track

• Careers advisors: Help you plan your VCE and university pathway