op vs atar,Understanding the Difference: OP vs ATAR
Understanding the Difference: OP vs ATAR
When it comes to university admissions in Australia, two terms often come up: OP and ATAR. But what exactly do they mean, and how do they differ? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you understand the nuances of these two systems.
What is OP?
OP, or Overall Position, is a ranking system used in Queensland, Australia. It is a numerical score that indicates a student’s position relative to their peers in the state. The OP score is calculated based on a student’s performance in the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and is used by universities to determine admission into undergraduate courses.
How is OP Calculated?
The OP score is determined by a combination of a student’s results in the QCE, including both internal and external assessments. The internal assessments are the marks awarded by the student’s school, while the external assessments are the results from the state-wide exams. The OP score takes into account the difficulty and popularity of the subjects taken by the student, with certain subjects contributing more to the final score than others.
What is ATAR?
ATAR, or Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank, is a national ranking system used across Australia. It is a numerical score that indicates a student’s position relative to their peers in the country. The ATAR is calculated based on a student’s performance in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), and the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE). The ATAR is used by universities across Australia to determine admission into undergraduate courses.
How is ATAR Calculated?
The ATAR is calculated using a complex formula that takes into account a student’s results in their best four subjects. The formula considers the difficulty and popularity of the subjects, as well as the student’s performance in each subject. The ATAR ranges from 0 to 99.95, with a higher score indicating a better position relative to other students.
OP vs ATAR: Key Differences
Here are some of the key differences between OP and ATAR:
| Aspect | OP | ATAR |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | State-wide | National |
| Subjects Used | QCE | VCE, SACE, QCE, TCE |
| Calculation Method | Combination of internal and external assessments | Based on the best four subjects |
| Range | 0 to 99 | 0 to 99.95 |
Which System is Better?
There is no definitive answer to which system is better, as both OP and ATAR have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice between the two systems ultimately depends on the state in which a student resides and their individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between OP and ATAR is crucial for students applying to university in Australia. Both systems have their own unique features and considerations, and it’s important to be aware of these differences to make informed decisions about your education and future.
