⚠️ Important: These conversion tables are based on statistical equivalencies and percentile mapping. Individual universities may have their own internal conversion methods. Always consult with specific institutions for official evaluations.

Conversion Principles:

Mathematical Representation:

Example: ATAR 90.00 = 90th percentile → find score at 90th percentile in GPA distribution = approximately 3.6-3.7 GPA.

Essential Information for Students:

1. Submit Original Credentials: Always provide your official transcript in the original grading system. Don't convert yourself—let universities do it
2. Include Grading Scale Context: Provide a school profile or letter explaining your grading system, especially for lesser-known qualifications
3. Highlight Course Rigor: Explicitly mention advanced courses (IB HL, AP, Extension classes, Honors) in applications
4. Get Official Translations: For non-English transcripts, use certified translation services. Universities may reject self-translations
5. Research Specific Requirements: Check each university's website for international qualification policies. Many have dedicated international admissions pages
6. Contact Admissions Directly: Email international admissions offices with specific questions about your qualification. They're helpful and responsive
7. Use WES/ECE for US Applications: Many US universities require or strongly recommend WES credential evaluations for international applicants
8. Don't Undersell Your Achievement: If your system is rigorous (like IB or Extension Mathematics), emphasize this in applications
9. Consider Subject Tests: SAT Subject Tests (discontinued but scores valid) or AP exams can supplement international qualifications for US admissions
10. Apply Strategically: Target a range of universities—reach, match, and safety—based on realistic conversion estimates, not optimistic ones

Can I use these conversions for university applications?

Use them for planning and target selection only. Always submit your original qualifications and let universities perform official conversions. Listing converted scores without context may confuse admissions officers or violate application guidelines. When in doubt, contact the university's international admissions office.

Which is harder: ATAR, IB, or A-Levels?

All three are rigorous but measure different things. IB requires breadth (6 subjects + extras), A-Levels allow specialization (3 subjects in depth), and ATAR depends on your state system and subject choices. "Harder" depends on individual strengths—some excel in specialized study (A-Levels), others in balanced curricula (IB).

Do US universities accept ATAR for admissions?

Yes, most US universities accept ATAR as valid qualification. Many also require SAT/ACT scores for international students regardless of ATAR. Top universities (Ivy League, Stanford, MIT) are familiar with ATAR and have established evaluation processes. Smaller institutions may require WES evaluation to supplement ATAR transcripts.

What ATAR do I need for Oxford/Cambridge?

Oxford and Cambridge typically expect ATAR 98.50-99.95 for most courses, equivalent to A* A* A* in A-Levels or IB 42-45. However, admissions also depend heavily on entrance exams (UCAT, BMAT, subject-specific tests), interviews, and personal statements. Many successful applicants have ATAR 99+ but admission rates are still only 15-20%.

Can I convert my IB predicted score to ATAR?

Yes, the same conversion principles apply. IB predicted scores are widely accepted for university applications globally. Australian universities commonly accept IB predicted scores. For ATAR equivalent: IB 42-45 ≈ ATAR 98-99.95; IB 38-41 ≈ ATAR 95-98; IB 35-37 ≈ ATAR 90-95. Remember that final IB scores must meet conditional offer requirements.

How do universities verify converted scores?

Universities don't rely on student-provided conversions. They use internal conversion tables developed by international admissions teams, consult with credential evaluation services (WES, ECE), and reference historical admission data. Official transcripts are verified through education authorities or recognized certification bodies in your country.

Is weighted or unweighted GPA used for ATAR conversion?

Unweighted GPA (4.0 scale) is standard for international conversions because weighted GPA scales vary (5.0, 6.0, etc.). However, course rigor (AP, Honors, IB courses) is considered separately. For ATAR conversion: unweighted 3.9+ ≈ ATAR 95+, but taking rigorous courses can offset slightly lower GPAs in holistic admissions.

Adam Kumar

Co-Founder @ RevisionTown

Adam is a mathematics education expert with extensive experience across multiple international curricula including IB (International Baccalaureate), AP (Advanced Placement), GCSE, IGCSE, Australian systems (VCE, HSC, QCE, WACE, SACE), and A-Levels. His expertise in comparative education systems makes him uniquely qualified to guide students through international qualification conversions.

Through RevisionTown, Adam has helped thousands of students navigate the complexities of international university applications, providing expert guidance on grade conversions, university selection, and application strategies for institutions worldwide including Group of Eight (Australia), Russell Group (UK), Ivy League (USA), and other prestigious universities.

His deep understanding of how different educational systems assess academic achievement enables him to provide comprehensive, accurate information about grade equivalencies and university admission requirements across multiple countries.