Nechama Basserabie has copped the odd ''funny look'' and been asked the predictable questions - ''Really? Are you sure?'' - when she has told people she is going to study art theory at university.

Her affection for the arts would surprise few. But, having achieved an ATAR of 99.90, people have questioned her decision to snub the chance to do a law degree.

''It takes a little bit of courage'': Nechama Basserabie, who got an ATAR of 99.90. Credit:Tamara Dean

Indeed, combined law at the University of NSW, which has an ATAR cut-off of 99.70, was initially her first preference.

But, in the final days for preference changes, she switched to the university's bachelor of art theory/ bachelor of arts course, despite having far exceeded last year's entry requirement of 75. This year, it rose to 80, now the minimum ATAR for all courses at the university.