Where to Now? 2026
Where to Now is your guide to senior secondary school pathways in Victoria.
This page will help you find information about senior secondary certificates available including pathway options, subjects and helpful explanations.
“Congratulations on reaching this important milestone – your final years of schooling. There are many varied and exciting study options available to you, from classroom-based exploration to hands-on skills development in high-demand industries. Whatever pathway you choose, I wish you the very best.”
The Hon. Ben Carroll MP
Deputy Premier of Victoria
Minister for Education
Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)
The VCE offers a wide range of subjects and opportunities beyond school. It can include VET programs and can lead to an ATAR.
>> You’re aiming for university entry through an ATAR or alternative entry program.
>> You’re considering a TAFE or VET certificate course.
>> You’re interested in an apprenticeship or traineeship.
>> You want to get straight into the workforce after Year 12.
VCE Vocational Major (VM)
An applied learning program within the VCE. VCE VM includes specific subjects to build the skills you need after school and VET programs to develop practical skills.
>> You’re considering an apprenticeship, traineeship or further education and training.
>> You want to get straight into the workforce after Year 12.
>> You’re aiming to get into university through a non-ATAR pathway.
Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC)
A foundation secondary certificate for students who want an individualised program at a more accessible level than the VCE.
It can help you move into a senior secondary qualification (e.g. VCE), entry level VET courses or straight into a job.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
VET allows you to do nationally recognised, hands-on training as part of your VCE, VCE VM or VPC.
VET develops industry-specific knowledge and skills, as well as general skills for employment, training and further education.
Important information
Your school
Before you choose your pathway and subject preferences, talk to your career counsellor. They can help explain your options and offer advice to help you to make the best decisions for your final years of school.
About special provision
If you want to complete the VCE, VCE VM or VPC and you are affected by an illness or injury, have an impairment or disability, or are impacted by factors relating to a personal circumstance, you may be eligible for special provision. Ask your school about
what’s available to help you successfully complete your VCE, VCE VM or VPC.
Allowances for personal circumstances or illness
If you experience circumstances immediately before or during your examinations that mean your external assessment results are unlikely to be a fair or accurate indication of your learning or achievement, you can apply for a derived examination score.
How to find out more
Department of Education
The Department of Education administers government school education, apprenticeships and traineeships.
Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)
VTAC calculates your ATAR and has more information about tertiary course options.