Academic and career pathways

Niyumi from Japan graduated from Kedron State High School and chose to study a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) at The University of Queensland, one of the leading pharmacy schools in the world. She says moving to Queensland was one of the best decisions she ever made.

Find the right path for you

Our high schools have dedicated guidance officers who can help you choose the right subjects and academic pathways to match your career goals. Wherever you are heading, they are there to support your journey.

Boost your English skills

Want to improve your English before starting high school in Queensland? You can enrol in the EQI High School Preparation (HSP) program, designed to develop your academic English skills and set you up for success.

You can also register with one of our EQI-approved English pathway providers before transitioning to a Queensland Government high school. We can package your offer with these providers, allowing you to apply for a student visa that covers your entire enrolment.

EQI-approved English pathway providers

Queensland Academies

Highly-capable students have the option to complete the rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in their senior years. Queensland Academies, a set of 3 top-performing schools across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, offer a bridge between high school and tertiary study, preparing bright students for university.

Pathways beyond high school

Most students in Queensland graduate with a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), which is used for university entry. But university is not your only option—you can also choose a TAFE or vocational education pathway.

Eyes on university

If you plan to study at a Queensland university after Year 12, international students can apply directly to their preferred university. Some courses may have extra requirements, like specific subject prerequisites.

If you did not study the required subjects, that's okay. Your results in other subjects, including approved vocational education and training (VET), can still contribute to your selection rank. You can also get bonus ATAR points for things like completing specific subjects in high school, attending a specific high school, or being an elite athlete or performer. Some Queensland Government schools also offer university pathway programs for Year 11 and 12 students, allowing you to:

• earn credits towards a university degree by studying university subjects while you are in Year 11 and 12
• access university facilities like sports, libraries and study spaces so you can experience the university lifestyle
• get a head start on higher education and learn about the differences between high school and university.

Queensland is home to world-class universities that offer cutting-edge education and research opportunities.

Shan from China and Sandy from Cambodia built their confidence and resilience at Queensland State High Schools so they could follow their passions for data and engineering at The University of Queensland.

Your pathway to Vocational Education and Training (VET)

VET providers offer the perfect combination of theory and hands-on training, giving you practical, job-focused skills. Whether you are looking for a short course, certificate, diploma, associate and bachelor's degree programs, VET prepares you for real-world careers with qualifications that are internationally recognised.

One of the leading VET providers in Queensland is Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Queensland, with a network spanning 7 regions across the state.

Why choose VET

• Gain practical work experience
• Develop job-ready, industry-specific skills
• Explore different career options

Many Queensland schools offer VET programs, and some have their own trade training centres.

VET in high school

Some schools allow students to study a VET qualification as a subject during Year 11 or 12, providing access to VET campus facilities and offering benefits like:

• earning credits toward your QCE
• direct entry into VET programs
• credit towards a university degree or higher education program.

Explore VET study areas such as:

• business and commerce
• creative industries
• engineering and technology
• human, animal and plant sciences
• service industries.

VET after high school

VET courses can prepare you for a career or further study. You can:

• study to improve your ATAR for university entry
• study towards a university degree
• combine a VET diploma and a university degree through a dual-award program.

No matter your goals, Queensland Government schools offer pathways to success that are flexible, supportive and designed to help you thrive in your future career. Even if you choose to return home or study in another country, you'll find that the Queensland Certificate of Education, VET qualifications and our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program are internationally recognised.

Ready to start your journey?

Find out more about studying at a Queensland Government school and explore the right pathway for you.​