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Home / School Rating Methodology

AU Guide School Rating Methodology

Four-dimension academic-focused rating system based on official VCAA data

Rating System Overview

The AU Guide rating system is built on official VCAA data, using a four-dimension comprehensive assessment with a maximum score of 100. Our scoring is transparent and straightforward, helping parents quickly understand a school's overall academic strength.

80%
10%
5%
5%
Academic Performance
University Focus
VCE Participation
Size & Stability

Formula

Overall Score = Academic Performance (80) + University Focus (10) + VCE Participation (5) + Size Score (5)

Four Dimensions Explained

Academic Performance 80%

Calculated from VCE median scores, 40+ score percentages, and overall academic results. This is the core indicator for school selection.

Maximum 80 points, 48 points (60%) is passing
Data source: Official VCAA VCE statistics
University Focus 10%

Based on VTAC application rates and tertiary preparation. Reflects the school's emphasis on academic pathways to university.

Maximum 10 points, 6 points (60%) is passing
Measures student university intentions and school guidance
VCE Participation 5%

Reflects the proportion of students completing VCE, indicating the school's commitment to academic pathways.

Maximum 5 points, 3 points (60%) is passing
Most schools perform well on this metric
Size & Stability 5%

Based on statistical sample size effects, assessing the reliability of ranking data. This is not a measure of educational quality.

Maximum 5 points, larger schools score higher
Larger samples produce more stable, reliable rankings

Academic Performance Breakdown

The Academic Performance score (80% of total) is calculated from three key VCE metrics:

VCE Median Study Score

The median score achieved by students across all VCE subjects. A score of 30 represents the state average. Top schools typically achieve median scores of 34-38.

40+ Score Percentage

The percentage of study scores at 40 or above (top 9% in the state). This indicates a school's ability to produce high-achieving students.

Overall VCE Completion

The percentage of Year 12 students who successfully complete their VCE, reflecting the school's support for all students through to graduation.

How to Use These Ratings

Understanding the Scores

  • 90-100: Excellent - Among the top schools in Victoria
  • 80-89: Very Good - Strong academic performance
  • 70-79: Good - Above average results
  • 60-69: Average - Solid performance
  • Below 60: Below Average - Room for improvement

School Selection Tips

  • Academic focus: Prioritise schools with scores above 85 if academic excellence is your main goal
  • Balanced approach: Consider schools scoring 75+ that may offer other advantages like location or specific programs
  • Selective schools: MacRobertson Girls' and Melbourne High School consistently rank at the top

Important Considerations

  • Size matters: Larger schools have more stable rankings; smaller schools may fluctuate year to year
  • Entry requirements: Selective schools have entrance exams; their high scores reflect pre-selected students
  • School fit: Ratings provide objective data, but the best school depends on your child's individual needs and interests
  • Annual updates: School performance can vary year to year; always check the latest data

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does school size affect the score?

Based on statistical principles: larger sample sizes produce more reliable data. In a large school (e.g., 200 VCE students), individual outliers have minimal impact on overall rankings. In smaller schools (e.g., 20 VCE students), a few exceptional students can significantly shift the rankings. The size score reflects data reliability, not educational quality.

How often is the data updated?

VCE results are updated annually following the release of official VCAA data, typically in early January. School information and other metrics are reviewed quarterly to ensure accuracy.

Why might a school's ranking change from year to year?

VCE results naturally fluctuate based on each year's cohort. Smaller schools experience greater variation. A school dropping or rising a few positions is normal; look at 3-5 year trends for a more accurate picture.

How does AU Guide differ from other school rankings?

Many rankings focus solely on VCE median scores. AU Guide's four-dimension system provides a more comprehensive view, including university preparation rates and statistical reliability. Our methodology is fully transparent, and we explain exactly how each score is calculated.

Data Sources

Our ratings are calculated using data from authoritative sources:

  • VCAA (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority): Official VCE results and school performance data
  • VTAC (Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre): University application and enrolment data
  • MySchool: School profiles and ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage)
  • DET (Department of Education and Training): School enrolment and demographic information

Update frequency: VCE results updated annually, other data reviewed quarterly

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