Queensland school-leavers have been warned not to expect an easy ride into their preferred tertiary course, due to an increase in competition for places.

The warning came as OP scores become available online and via SMS from 9am today, bringing an end to an anxious wait for school-leavers.



Graduates will learn if their hard work has paid off today. Credit:Jamie Wicks

Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre spokeswoman Pat Smith said there had been an 18 per cent increase in tertiary applications from 2008, so getting into a first-choice course could be harder this time around.

"More than ever before, it's really important (for would-be tertiary students) to take some time to review their preferences, look at some other options - they can log on to the QTAC website for courses and see the wide range of courses in an area of interest," she said.