SEAS, or the Special Entry Access Scheme, is an incredible opportunity every VCE student should consider. This scheme can significantly impact your ATAR and selection rank, helping you gain access to your desired university course. Here’s everything you need to know about SEAS, its categories, and how you can use it to your advantage.
What is SEAS?
SEAS stands for Special Entry Access Scheme, a system designed to adjust your selection rank based on specific personal or situational factors.
ATAR vs Selection Rank:
• Your ATAR is the raw score you receive at the end of the year.
• Your selection rank is the adjusted score that universities actually consider.
The difference between these two scores can be significant and, in some cases, life-changing.
The Four Categories of SEAS
SEAS is divided into four main categories. Depending on your circumstances, you might be eligible for one or more of these:
Category 1: Personal Information and Location
• If you live more than 45 minutes away from your school by driving, you may qualify for extra ATAR points.
• These points can range from approximately 3 to 5 points.
Category 2: Disadvantaged Financial Background
• This category supports students who face financial difficulties. If this applies to you, ensure you gather evidence of your situation.
Category 3: Disability, Mental Condition, or Medical Condition
• Examples include:
• A broken arm.
• Surgery during the year.
• Any medical issue that hinders your ability to study effectively.
• Keep detailed records, including dates and descriptions, of any such events that affect your studies.
Category 4: Difficult Circumstances
• If your home environment makes it hard to study, such as:
• Noise: Too many people or distractions.
• Conflict: Fights or arguments at home.
• Action Steps:
• Keep a diary with details (date, time, and what happened).
• Get someone aged 21 or older (not a family member) to affirm these notes.
• At the end of the year, you’ll need a letter from this person to support your claim.
Why You Should Start Documenting Now
Many students wait until the end of the year to apply for SEAS, only to realize they’ve forgotten important details. Here’s how to stay on top of things:
1. Keep a Diary:
• Record any events or circumstances that affect your study.
2. Involve a Supporter:
• Find someone reliable (21 or older, not a family member) to vouch for your situation.
3. Prepare Early:
• Don’t wait for your school to tell you—start collecting evidence now.
Case Study: Why SEAS Is So Good
There was a student at JMSS who received an ATAR of 80, but after applying for SEAS, his selection rank increased to 95. This significant jump showcases how important it is to utilize this scheme.
Extra ATAR Points from Subjects
In addition to SEAS, you may be eligible for extra ATAR points based on the subjects you study:
Monash University Example:
• Extra points for subjects like Chemistry, Physics, Specialist Maths, or Methods.
• These points are course-specific and university-specific, so make sure to research your target courses.
Things to Remember About SEAS
Universities Only Look at Your Selection Rank:
• Except for the Monash Guarantee, universities focus on your adjusted selection rank rather than your raw ATAR.
Not All Scores Are Published:
• Only the top 9% of students (those with 40+ study scores) have their results published on platforms like Quppa.net.
• Take these numbers with a grain of salt, as not all students consent to publication.
What’s Next?
Research: Find out how SEAS applies to your situation and your target university.
Document Everything: Start tracking any circumstances that might affect your studies.
Ask for Help: Your school will guide you at the end of the year, but starting early gives you a significant advantage.
Conclusion
No matter who you are or what your circumstances may be, SEAS is a program every VCE student should apply for. It can provide the boost you need to secure your dream course. Start preparing today, and don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity
We help you achieve academic success at any level of learning.
