The increasing number of non-English speaking background (NESB) students (from both Australia and overseas) has led to concerns about the appropriateness of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at upper secondary level as a preparation for tertiary study. These concerns have been voiced at both upper secondary and tertiary levels. It appears that NESB students' English language levels at Year 12 are a critical factor in determining whether or not they will succeed at tertiary study. On the other hand, they at times achieve high levels of competence in mainstream subject areas which are not reflected in their ESL results. Several other factors may also affect NESB students' tertiary success rates e.g. language and cultural background, and length of time in Australia. In addition, the responses of tertiary institutions to such students and their needs may be of importance. This study surveys the backgrounds and success rates of NESB students from an ACT secondary college who moved into tertiary study programs. It investigates their results in their Year 12 Certificates and traces them through three years of tertiary study. In doing so, the study identifies certain factors which appear to impact upon the students' success rates. Results obtained may prove beneficial to ESL service providers at upper secondary level. Furthermore, tertiary institutions may find such an analysis helpful in assisting them to develop appropriate approaches to meet the needs of this particular group of students.