Tertiary entry

Undergraduate study (sometimes called higher education) usually refers to study at bachelor degree level. It can also refer to associate degrees and higher education diplomas.

An undergraduate student is someone who has not yet completed their first degree, or who is studying towards an additional undergraduate qualification. It is possible to complete more than one undergraduate degree.

If you’re currently completing Year 12 then this is likely to be the first time you will study at undergraduate level. 

SATAC provides an application process for undergraduate courses offered by universities and higher education providers in South Australia and the Northern Territory.

VET stands for vocational education and training. VET courses focus on providing skills for work.

VET courses include qualifications at Certificate, Diploma and Advanced Diploma level from a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO).

You might also complete VET study as part of your SACE or NTCET. Your VET study might count towards the flexible option in your ATAR calculation.

TAFE SA is the largest VET provider in South Australia, and one of the largest in Australia. You can apply for courses offered by TAFE SA through SATAC.

Postgraduate study is usually undertaken after completing an undergraduate degree or after gaining significant work experience. These courses – including honours, graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, and master’s degrees – let you build deeper knowledge in a particular field. Some postgraduate programs also allow university graduates to study in a different field, such as through graduate-entry bachelor degrees.

You can apply for postgraduate courses offered by universities in South Australia and the Northern Territory through SATAC.