You’ve got major works piling up, revision schedules plastered to the wall, and everyone you talk to asks you “so what are you doing next year?”. The pressure to perform is real… but what if it didn’t have to be this way?

For students with creative ambitions, JMC Academy’s Early Entry Program offers a powerful alternative: a chance to secure your place before your ATAR score even drops. No second-guessing or “what ifs”, but a head start in a direction you actually want to go.

Let’s break down why this program could be the sigh of relief (and clarity) you’ve been waiting for.

Stress Less, Create More

The final year of high school is challenging enough without the added pressure of university uncertainty. JMC’s Early Entry Program is designed to reduce that noise and give you something tangible to look forward to by reflecting who you are right now (and not just what you can cram for an exam!).

It’s not about skipping the hard work (you’re doing plenty of that already). It’s about giving your efforts more direction. Knowing you’ve secured a spot at a creative institution like JMC means you can approach your final projects with a greater sense of purpose, whether that’s polishing your major film, refining your final performance piece, or just walking into your exams with one less thing to stress about.

Secure a Spot at a Creative Institution That Gets You

JMC Academy has been launching creative careers for over 40 years, with a curriculum shaped by industry professionals and studios that mirror the real world. We know the journey isn’t just about getting into any course; it’s about finding a place that sees your potential and gives you the tools to build something meaningful from it.

Early Entry at JMC isn’t a “plan B.” It’s a considered, confident next step. One that shows you’re serious about your future in the creative industries, whether that’s music, animation, design, film, audio, acting, game development, or entertainment business management.

It’s not about opting out of Year 12— it’s about opting into what comes next.

ATAR ≠ Ability

Despite what anyone might tell you when you’re deep in the high school trenches: your ATAR doesn’t define your potential. It’s just one highly specific indicator for one blueprint of the future, not a summary of your talent, work ethic, or ability to thrive in higher education.

In the Creative Industries people will rarely ask, “What did you get in English?”. More importantly employers will want to know: Can you collaborate? Can you think originally? Can you back your ideas with skill?

JMC’s Early Entry Program recognises that these questions can’t be answered by a number. Instead, they look at the holistic you: your passion, your portfolio (if applicable), and your reasons for wanting to build a career in the creative world.

Back Yourself Early

There’s something powerful about taking initiative before the rest of the world says it’s time. Applying early sends a message, not just to universities, your parents, teachers or classmates, but ultimately to yourself. It’s a message that says “I’m serious about this, and I’m starting the ball rolling now rather than later”.

Early Entry is about momentum. The kind that carries you forward while others are still refreshing their ATAR results. And to be real: having that kind of confidence and initiative is the stuff careers are made of.

So, Who Is Early Entry For?

Early Entry at JMC is open to students currently in Year 12. Applications are open now, and no, you don’t need your ATAR to get started. Just a conversation, an application form, and perhaps a decision that shapes the rest of your creative life!