How Much Does Chemistry Scale Up VCE?

The VCE scaling system plays a major role in shaping your final ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). This is especially beneficial when you’re aiming for competitive university courses. While every subject is assessed on its own merits, some are known to scale up more than others, and VCE Chemistry is one of them. Chemistry is one of the science subjects that consistently sees an upward trend each year. With the right support, like Chemistry tutoring, you can maximise this advantage and significantly lift your overall ranking. In this blog, we will cover how much does Chemistry scale up VCE and why it matters for students.

VCE scaling is a system used by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) to create a fair playing field across all VCE subjects. Since some subjects are more academically competitive, VTAC adjusts scores through a process called scaling.
Your raw score is what you earn in the subject, based on assessments and exams. However, your scaled score is the one used to calculate your ATAR, which is a rank and not a score. If a subject is considered more challenging or attracts stronger-performing students, it tends to scale up. Here, Chemistry is one of the subjects that stand out.
For example, if a subject like Further Maths typically scales down, subjects like Chemistry are more likely to provide a boost, which is helpful for students targeting health or science degrees

According to the 2024 VCE Scaling Report, Chemistry continues to perform strongly as one of the better-scaling science subjects.

Based on 2024 trends, here’s a general idea of how much does Chemistry scale up in the VCE

So, compared to other science subjects, Chemistry tends to be quite favourable. For example, Psychology often scales close to or slightly below the raw score. On the other hand, Biology provides moderate scaling. In contrast, VCE Chemistry has consistently shown a scale-up, rewarding students who perform well.

Therefore, Chemistry is an attractive choice for high achievers, particularly those eyeing top ATAR results. Additionally, it’s extremely advantageous for those aiming to take courses in biomedicine, dentistry, or pharmaceutical sciences. When supported with chemistry tutoring, many students can turn a decent raw mark into a significantly higher scaled result.

If you’re aiming to increase your raw as well as scaled scores, VCE Chemistry tutoring is an excellent solution. Students in Melbourne have access to several tutoring providers that go beyond just theory. However, it’s important to prefer a tutor who offers a personalised tutoring plan to your strengths and weaknesses. Enquire if they arrange sessions to focus on SAC preparation and mock exams to simulate real test conditions.

Additionally. If they give regular feedback, you’ll know where you’re heading. So, the goal shouldn’t be just to pass, but to master VCE Chemistry with confidence. Whether you’re currently sitting at a raw 30 and aiming for 35+, or already scoring high and want to polish your exam skills, experts like Emu Education offer the support needed.

So, how much does Chemistry scale up? This blog has covered some important details to guide you. With the right support, you’ll experience a noticeable difference in your ATAR, especially. If you’re aiming for a career in health sciences or just trying to boost your ATAR, Chemistry is one subject that works in your favour.

Emu Education helps you maximise your results with targeted Chemistry tutoring in Melbourne, and make your final year one that pays off. Call our team on 0479 190 958 or email us at info@emueducation.com.au.