Finishing Year 12 is a big milestone. Whether you're excited about what comes next, unsure which direction to take or worried about your ATAR, it's worth knowing that you have options.
You don't have to follow the same path as everyone else. And you don't need to have your entire future figured out before you start exploring.
At Kangan Institute, you can discover practical training, explore different industries and find a course that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Kangan Institute courses don't require an ATAR for entry, so even if your results aren't what you expected, there may be another way to work towards the career you want.
There isn't one right answer to what you should do after school. Some students want to go to university. Others prefer practical learning, want to explore a trade or are keen to start developing skills for a particular industry. Some want to take a gap year to explore the world.
You might already have a career in mind, or you might still be figuring out what interests you.
Wherever you're starting from, taking some time to explore your options can help you make a more informed decision.
Your Year 12 results are only one part of your journey.
Kangan Institute courses do not require an ATAR for entry, which means you can explore a range of study options regardless of your ATAR result.
Some qualifications may have prerequisites or other selection requirements, so it's important to review the course information for the qualification you're interested in.
Whatever your results, there may be a pathway that helps you take the next step towards your career goals.
University and TAFE offer different learning experiences and qualification pathways. The best option depends on what you want to learn, how you prefer to learn and where you'd like your studies to take you.
TAFE may be a good fit if you're interested in developing practical skills, learning in industry-focused environments or working towards a vocational qualification.
Choosing TAFE doesn't necessarily mean ruling out university. Depending on your qualification and the university, further study or credit towards a degree may be possible with a university pathway.
Start with the industries and activities that interest you. You can then explore qualifications that may help you work towards your goals.
Kangan Institute offers courses across a range of study areas, including automotive, trades, health and community services, hospitality, business, digital technology and creative studies.
Finding the right course starts with understanding what you want from your next step.
Automotive
Interested in cars, trucks, motorbikes, technology, diagnostics or working with your hands? Explore automotive training and discover the different specialisations available.
Trades and industrial training
If you enjoy practical problem-solving and making things, explore training in areas such as building, construction and other trade-related fields.
Health and community services
If you're interested in working with people and supporting your community, explore qualifications in health and community services.
Explore health and community courses
Digital technology
Explore study options in information technology, programming and cyber security if you're interested in technology and solving problems.
Explore digital technology courses
Hospitality and creative industries
Discover options in hospitality, commercial cookery, baking, hair, beauty, barbering and creative studies.
Explore hospitality courses Explore creative courses
Course availability, entry requirements and career outcomes vary by qualification. Use the course information to check the details for your preferred study area.
At Kangan Institute, vocational education can give you opportunities to develop skills relevant to your chosen industry.
Depending on the course, your learning may involve practical projects, specialist equipment, simulated work environments or work placements where required.
For example, Kangan Institute has dedicated training facilities such as the Automotive Centre of Excellence at Docklands and specialist learning environments across its campuses.
These facilities offer a way to see how practical training can support your learning and help you prepare for your next step.
You don't have to make this decision on your own.
If you're unsure about your career direction, the Kangan Institute NEXT STEP team can help you explore training and career options. Its free services include advice for 15-24 year old people considering training, entering the workforce or changing career direction.
Find out more about the NEXT STEP and the advice available to help you work out your next move.
You can also start by asking yourself a few simple questions:
What subjects, activities or industries interest me?
Do I prefer practical learning, classroom learning or a mix of both?
What kind of work would I like to explore?
Do I want to start with a certificate, diploma or another qualification?
Would I like to keep university or further study as a future option?
You don't need all the answers straight away. These questions can help you narrow down your options and find courses worth exploring.
You can start preparing for your next step before your Year 12 results arrive.
1. Explore your interests. Think about the subjects, activities and industries that appeal to you.
2. Compare courses. Browse Kangan Institute qualifications and look at what each course covers.
3. Check entry requirements. Find out whether your preferred course has prerequisites, assessments or other selection requirements.
4. Understand fees and funding. Check course costs, eligibility requirements and any available funding options.
5. Ask for advice. Contact NEXT STEP or the Kangan Institute admissions team if you need help deciding what to do next.
6. Check application dates. Review the course page and application information for current 2027 intake details.
You don't have to have everything worked out today. You just need somewhere to start.
Whether you're exploring options after an unexpected ATAR result, comparing TAFE with university or looking for a course that connects with your interests, Kangan Institute can help you investigate the pathways available to you.
Your future has more than one pathway. Find yours with Kangan Institute.
Need help deciding? Call 13 TAFE (13 8233) or visit NEXT STEP to explore your options.
