October 27, 2026 / IHNA
Didn't Get the ATAR You Wanted? Nursing Could Still Be an Option
Results day can be stressful, especially when you have a career in mind, and your ATAR isn't what you expected.
If nursing is something you've always wanted to pursue, a lower ATAR doesn't necessarily mean you need to give up on that plan.
There are different ways to begin nursing studies in Australia, and university is not the only starting point.
Many students associate nursing with completing a Bachelor of Nursing at a university. While this is the usual qualification pathway towards becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), another option worth exploring is the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing.
The Diploma of Nursing is a nationally recognised vocational qualification designed to prepare students for enrolled nursing practice.
At the Institute of Health and Nursing Australia (IHNA), applicants can explore Diploma of Nursing admission pathways that do not require a specific ATAR.
However, the absence of an ATAR requirement does not mean automatic admission. Applicants still need to meet the course's academic suitability, English language, language and numeracy, and other applicable admission requirements.
What Will You Learn?
The Diploma of Nursing combines theoretical knowledge with practical nursing skills.
Students learn about areas such as infection prevention, patient care, clinical communication, health assessments and safe nursing practice.
Practical learning includes simulation-based training, where students develop and demonstrate skills in a supervised learning environment.
Professional Experience Placement (PEP) is also part of the course, allowing students to apply their learning in healthcare settings.
What Happens After the Diploma?
Graduates of an approved Diploma of Nursing programme may apply for registration as an Enrolled Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), subject to meeting the Board's registration requirements.
Some enrolled nurses also choose to pursue further university studies towards becoming a Registered Nurse. Admission and credit arrangements depend on the university.
Your ATAR Doesn't Have to Decide Everything
If you've finished Year 12 and are considering nursing, it is worth looking at all the available pathways before deciding what comes next.
IHNA offers the Diploma of Nursing across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.
Explore the course, understand the entry requirements and speak with the IHNA team about your options.
