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Nervous about applying? Don’t worry. We’ll walk you through it.
What do you need to apply to UNSW? Firstly, you need an academic qualification. This helps us assess you and is the only way to gain admission.
Applying to UNSW changes depending on where you’re at in life. The information below is customised for you based on the type of student you are.
Haven’t chosen your customisation or need to change your selection? Just click the person icon in the menu bar above.
If you have any questions, give us a call on 1300 UNI NSW (1300 864 679) or click below.
Non-Recent School Leaver
Select an option
- I have a Senior Secondary Qualification (within the past 2 years)
- I have an Australian Secondary Qualification
If you have completed your Senior Secondary Qualification within the past 2 years and have not undertaken any other qualifications, you can use your ATAR (or equivalent) to apply for UNSW study.
Use Find A Degree to research the degree you are interested in and what last year’s Lowest Selection Rank for admission was.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
- I have an Overseas Senior Secondary Qualification
If you completed your high school education overseas and you haven't completed any further study, you will need to check if we accept your qualification. Please use the box below to search by country for a list of the qualifications we accept.
If your qualification is accepted, you will submit an application to study at UNSW via the Universities Admissions Centre. If you'd like to know specifically how your high school qualification compares to an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Academic Rank), you can use UAC's Qualifications Assessment Service (fee applies).
Please note that even if your qualification is accepted, you may still need to meet UNSW's English Language Requirements. Check the UNSW English Language Requirement Policy for more information.
Another possible pathway if you have completed the majority of your high school education overseas, is a Foundation Year program. At UNSW, we have developed a comprehensive pre-university Foundation Year program to prepare students for tertiary study in Australia. You may qualify for entry to UNSW by undertaking this progam.
If your qualification isn't accepted, you'll need to consider another pathway, like a TAFE qualification, a formal preparation program or starting your study at another university and transferring to UNSW later. As every situation is unique, it's probably best that we chat about what may be the best options for you. Please ring us on (02) 9385 1844 or Ask a Question.
- I have an Australian Secondary Qualification
- I have Vocational Education and Training (VET) Study
- I have a Certificate IV
UNSW only accepts completed AQF accredited Certificate IV for entry. Please note that your qualification must have been graded, not competency based, for it to be competitive for entry into UNSW Bachelor degrees. Generally, AQF accredited Certificate IV qualifications will require a Credit average to be competitive for admission to programs with a lowest selection rank of 80. To check the lowest selection rank for each degree visit Find a Degree.
Competency based AQF accredited Certificate IV may be considered for admission via Art & Design Portfolio Entry and Built Environment Portfolio Entry.
As you have a completed Certificate IV, you will be assessed differently to high school students. All qualifications that you have will be considered in the assessment of your application. It is also important to note that students with a tertiary study record are not eligible for adjustment factors.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you still don’t know if you are eligible or if you have any other questions, it’s probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances. Please contact the Future Students Office on 1300 864 679 or Ask a Question.
- I have a Diploma
UNSW only accepts completed AQF accredited Diplomas for entry. Please note that your qualification must have been graded, not competency based, for it to be competitive for entry into most UNSW Bachelor degrees. Generally, AQF accredited Diploma qualifications will require a Distinction average to be competitive for admission to programs with a lowest selection rank above 90. Competency based qualifications may be considered for admission to programs with a lowest selection rank of 80. To check the lowest selection rank for each degree visit Find a Degree.
As you have a completed Diploma, you will be assessed differently to high school students. All qualifications that you have will be considered in the assessment of your application. It is also important to note that students with a tertiary study record are not eligible for adjustment factors.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you still don’t know if you are eligible or if you have any other questions, it’s probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances. Please ring Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or Ask a Question.
- I want to apply for UNSW Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry
If you have completed an AQF accredited Diploma, you will be assessed based on 50% of your ATAR (or equivalent) and 50% of your completed Diploma.
All Law applicants are also required to sit the Law Admissions Test (LAT).
- I want to apply for B Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine degrees
Please note UNSW Medicine does not accept VET qualifications as the basis of admissions into Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine and Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine.
- I want to apply for a UNSW degree other than Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry or B Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine degrees
If you have completed an AQF accredited Diploma, you will be assessed for admissions to UNSW on either your completed Diploma OR your ATAR (or equivalent) – whichever is better.
If your ATAR is more than 5 years old, you will be assessed only on Diploma.
- I have an Advanced Diploma
UNSW only accepts completed AQF accredited Advanced Diplomas for entry. Please note that your qualification must have been graded, not competency based, for it to be competitive for entry into most UNSW Bachelor degrees. Generally, AQF accredited Advanced Diploma qualifications will require a Distinction average to be competitive for admission to programs with a lowest selection rank above 90. Competency based qualifications may be considered for admission to programs with a lowest selection rank of 80. To check the lowest selection rank for each degree visit Find a Degree.
As you have a completed Advanced Diploma, you will be assessed differently to high school students. All qualifications that you have will be considered in the assessment of your application. It is also important to note that students with a tertiary study record are not eligible for adjustment factors.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you still don’t know if you are eligible or if you have any other questions, it’s probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances. Please ring Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or Ask a Question.
- I want to apply for UNSW Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry
If you have completed an AQF accredited Advanced Diploma, you will be assessed based on 50% of your ATAR (or equivalent) and 50% of your completed Advanced Diploma.
All Law applicants are also required to sit the Law Admissions Test (LAT).
- I want to apply for B Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine degrees
Please note UNSW Medicine does not accept VET qualifications as the basis of admissions into Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine and Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine.
- I want to apply for a UNSW degree other than Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry or B Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine degrees
If you have completed an AQF accredited Advanced Diploma, you will be assessed for admissions to UNSW on either your completed Advanced Diploma OR your ATAR (or equivalent) – whichever is better.
If your ATAR is more than 5 years old, you will be assessed only on Advanced Diploma.
- I have a Certificate IV
- I have Higher Education Studies
- I want to apply for UNSW Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry
- I have completed less than 0.75 FTE of study
Less than 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) of tertiary study is not assessable for entry to UNSW. Your eligibility for admission to a UNSW degree will revert back to your most recent assessable qualification (e.g. HSC or equivalent).
To have your university studies considered for admission, you must complete at least one year of full-time study (minimum 0.75 FTE) within one degree at another university.
All Law applicants are required to sit the Law Admissions Test (LAT).
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed a minimum of 0.75 FTE of study
If you have completed 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) or more of tertiary study in a single degree, you will be assessed for admission based on 50% of your ATAR results (or equivalent) and 50% of your tertiary study results.
All Law applicants are required to sit the Law Admissions Test (LAT).
In all cases, to study at UNSW, you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed an undergraduate degree
If you have already completed an undergraduate (Bachelors) degree, you will be assessed for admission based on 50% of your ATAR results (or equivalent) and 50% of your tertiary study results.
All Law applicants are required to sit the Law Admissions Test (LAT).
In all cases, to study at UNSW, you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed less than 0.75 FTE of study
- I want to apply for B Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine degrees
- I have completed less than 0.75 FTE of study
Less than 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) of tertiary study is not enough to assess you for entry to UNSW. For this reason you will be assessed on your most recent assessable qualification (e.g. HSC or equivalent).
To have your university studies considered for admission, you must complete at least one year of full-time study (minimum 0.75 full time equivalent load) within one degree.
You must also complete the additional selection criteria required of all Medicine applicants. More information on these requirements is available here.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
As every situation is unique, it's probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances and how you're likely to be assessed for admission to UNSW. Please ring the Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or submit a question.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed a minimum of 0.75 FTE of study
If you have completed an equivalent of 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) or more of tertiary study in a single degree, you will be assessed for admission to medicine on either your tertiary study results OR your ATAR (or equivalent). The following minimum criteria applies:
- Secondary school qualification component must reach 96.00 ATAR of equivalent AND
- Tertiary study component must reach WAM 70 or equivalent
Once you have met the minimum requirement, the "BEST OF" algorithm would apply and the qualification with a higher selection rank would be used as a final selection rank for medicine admissions purposes.
You must also complete the additional selection criteria required of all Medicine applicants. More information on these requirements is available here.
If you are currently studying Medicine at another university, applications to transfer to UNSW Medicine will only be considered in exceptional circumstances. Applications for transfer to UNSW Medicine need to be submitted directly to the Universities Admissions Centre. You will also need to submit UNSW's Special Consideration for Applicants with Tertiary Studies (SCATS) application directly to the University. If you are considering a Medicine to Medicine transfer, please contact the Medicine Admissions Manager prior to applying for additional advice.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed an undergraduate degree
If you have completed an equivalent of 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) or more of tertiary study in a single degree, you will be assessed for admission to medicine on either your tertiary study results OR your ATAR (or equivalent). The following minimum criteria applies:
- Secondary school qualification component must reach 96.00 ATAR of equivalent AND
- Tertiary study component must reach WAM 70 or equivalent
Once you have met the minimum requirement, the "BEST OF" algorithm would apply and the qualification with a higher selection rank would be used as a final selection rank for medicine admissions purposes.
You must also complete the additional selection criteria required of all Medicine applicants. More information on these requirements is available here.
Visit the Universities Admissions Centre website to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed less than 0.75 FTE of study
- I want to apply for a UNSW degree other than Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry or B Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine degrees
- I have completed less than 0.75 FTE of study
Less than 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) of tertiary study is not enough to assess you for entry to UNSW. For this reason you will be assessed on your most recent assessable qualification (e.g. HSC or equivalent).
To have your university studies considered for admission, you must complete at least one year of full-time study (minimum 0.75 full time equivalent load) within one degree.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
As every situation is unique, it's probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances and how you're likely to be assessed for admission to UNSW. Please ring the Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or submit a question.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed a minimum of 0.75 FTE of study
If you have completed an equivalent of 0.75 FTE (full time equivalent) or more of tertiary study in a single degree, you will be assessed for admission to UNSW on either your tertiary study results OR your ATAR (or equivalent) - whichever is better. If your ATAR is more than 5 years old, you will be assessed only on your tertiary study.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed an undergraduate degree
If you have already completed an undergraduate (Bachelors) degree, then you can use the results you obtained from that qualification to apply for a different undergraduate degree.
Your admission to UNSW will be based on either your tertiary study results OR your ATAR (or equivalent) - whichever is better. If your ATAR is more than 5 years old, you will be assessed only on your tertiary study.
Visit the Universities Admissions Centre website to apply.
If you gain entry into a program at UNSW, you may be eligible for credit for courses (subjects) studied at another institution. Find out more about Credit Transfer.
- I have completed less than 0.75 FTE of study
- I'm interested in postgraduate study
As a postgraduate student at UNSW you will benefit from our flexible degree structures, the number and diversity of course options, our leading researchers and academics, industry links and numerous scholarship opportunities.
Find the relevant information for you by clicking one of the buttons below:
I'm interested in Postgraduate Coursework I'm interested in Postgraduate Research
- I want to apply for UNSW Law or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry
- I have Work and Life Experience
- I have a Senior Secondary Qualification (completed more than 2 years ago)
- My ATAR is less than 5 years old
You can use your ATAR (Australian Tertiary Academic Rank) or equivalent (IB, OP, etc) to apply for UNSW study as long as it is less than 5 years old. For example, if you completed your HSC in 2016, you can still use your ATAR for admission to UNSW in 2022. Use Find a Degree to research the degree you're interested in and what last year's Lowest Selection Rank for admission was.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
If you still don’t know if you are eligible or if you have any other questions it's probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances. Please ring the Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or Ask a Question.
- My ATAR is more than 5 years old and I want to apply for Law, Medicine or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry
It doesn't matter how long ago you received your ATAR (or equivalent) when applying for Law, Medicine or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry - it will always be assessed. On top of your ATAR, both Medicine and Law also have additional selection criteria. Check the Find A Degree tool to find out more.
As everyone's situation is unique, it's probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances and what may be the best option for you. Please ring the Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or submit a question.
- My ATAR is more than 5 years old and I want to apply for a UNSW degree other than Law, Medicine or B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry
In most cases your ATAR (Australian Tertiary Academic Rank) or equivalent is only valid for 5 years. For example, if you completed your HSC in 2015, your ATAR won’t be considered for admission to UNSW for intakes commencing 2022. If this applies to you, we'll need something else to assess you on - like a university preparation program or a graded, Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) accredited Certificate IV or above.
Note: If you are applying for Bachelor of International Public Health, B Vision Science/M Clinical Optometry, Medicine or Law degree or to UNSW Canberra at ADFA, your ATAR will always be considered, even if it's more than 5 years old.
As everyone's situation is unique, it's probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances and what may be the best option for you. Please ring the Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or submit a question.
- I have a Limited ATAR
You can use your Limited ATAR as a form of assessment for entry into most UNSW degrees - except Medicine and Optometry. To be eligible, you must be at least 20 years old on 1 March in the year you complete your HSC studies. You must also complete between 5 and 9 units of ATAR courses, including at least 1 unit of English.
To find out more about Limited ATARs and whether or not you may be eligible, visit the Universities Admissions Centre website.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
- My ATAR is less than 5 years old
- I have completed bridging or enabling course
- I have completed a Foundation program
UNSW only accepts Group of Eight (Go8) Foundation programs, including:
- UNSW Sydney
- Monash University
- The Australian National University
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Sydney
- The University of Western Australia
Foundation programs are valid for 5 years.
- I have completed a Foundation program
- I have completed a university preparation program
- I have completed the UNSW Prep Program (17 - 19) or the UPP
A completed UNSW Prep program can only be used for entry into Arts and Social Sciences Degrees, the Bachelor of Commerce, the Bachelor of Engineering (Flexible First Year) and the Bachelor of Science.
A completed UNSW University Preparation Program (UPP) can be used for entry into most UNSW degrees.
Note: A small number of UNSW degree programs do not accept the UPP. These are: Combined Law, programs offered by the UNSW Business School (except for Commerce, Economics and Information Systems), Medicine, Medicinal Chemistry, Medical Science, Advanced Science, Advanced Mathematics, Optometry (incl. Vision Science), and Psychology (please note that Psychology can be studied as a major in the Bachelor of Life Sciences, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Psychological Science).
Both the UPP and the UNSW Prep program are valid for 5 years.
To continue your study at UNSW after completing the UPP or UNSW Prep program, you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
Note: UNSW Canberra do not accept UNSW Prep program (17-19) or UPP as a pathway into their undergraduate programs.
- I have completed the University Preparation Course (UPC) at the University of Sydney
You can use the grades you've received from this preparation course as a form of assessment for entry into some UNSW degrees. To have your preparation course considered you must be 21 years old or older as of 1 March in the year you start your undergraduate study at UNSW and have completed a minimum of 2 courses, including 1 humanities course.
Note that this preparation course cannot be used for entry into Combined Law, programs offered by the UNSW Business School (except for Commerce, Economics and Information Systems), Medicine, Medicinal Chemistry, Medical Science, Advanced Science, Advanced Mathematics, Optometry (incl. Vision Science), and Psychology (please note that Psychology can be studied as a major in the Bachelor of Life Sciences, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Psychological Science).
This qualification is valid for 5 years only.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
- I have completed the Open Foundation Program at the University of Newcastle
You can use the grades you've received from this preparation course as a form of assessment for entry into some UNSW degrees - as long as you are 21 years old or older as of 1 March in the year you start your undergraduate study at UNSW.
IMPORTANT: You must have completed the preparation course with a minimum of 20 units of humanities subjects.
Note that this preparation course cannot be used for entry into Combined Law, programs offered by the UNSW Business School (except for Commerce, Economics and Information Systems), Medicine, Medicinal Chemistry, Medical Science, Advanced Science, Advanced Mathematics, Optometry (incl. Vision Science), and Psychology (please note that Psychology can be studied as a major in the Bachelor of Life Sciences, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Psychological Science).
This qualification is valid for 5 years only.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
- I have a TAFE Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC)
You can use the grades you've received from this preparation course as a form of assessment for entry into most UNSW degrees - as long as you are 21 years old or older as of 1 March in the year you start your undergraduate study at UNSW.
Note that this preparation course cannot be used for entry into Medicine or Optometry (incl. Vision Science).
This qualification is valid for 5 years only.
To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
- I have completed the Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation at TAFE Queensland
You can use the grades you've received from this preparation course as a form of assessment for entry into some UNSW degrees - as long as you are 21 years old or older as of 1 March in the year you start your undergraduate study at UNSW.
Note that this preparation course cannot be used for entry into Combined Law, programs offered by the UNSW Business School (except for Commerce, Economics and Information Systems), Medicine, Medicinal Chemistry, Medical Science, Advanced Science, Advanced Mathematics, Optometry (incl. Vision Science), and Psychology (please note that Psychology can be studied as a major in the Bachelor of Life Sciences, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Psychological Science).
This qualification is valid for 5 years only.To study at UNSW you will need to submit an application via the Universities Admissions Centre. Visit their website for detailed information on how to apply.
- I have completed a different preparation program
UNSW only accepts the six above mentioned preparation programs for entry at this stage.
Note: Completion of the Macquarie or UTS Pathway diplomas will be considered for entry into UNSW degrees, however, no course credits will be awarded.
- I have completed the UNSW Prep Program (17 - 19) or the UPP
- I have more than 5 years professional work experience
Work experience can sometimes be used as a form of assessment for admission into a Graduate Diploma. For more information, visit the UNSW Postgraduate Coursework page.
NOTE: Admission to our undergraduate programs is based on academic merit ONLY. Work experience cannot be used for admission into these degrees.
- I have none of the above
Admission to UNSW is based on academic merit. As such, we need something to assess you on.
There are a number of qualifications or preparation programs you could pursue to gain a qualification that we can assess for admission here at UNSW. This would include the UNSW University Preparation Program (UPP), UNSW Prep program, University of Sydney's University Preparation Course (UPC) or University of Newcastle's Open Foundation Program, a TAFE qualification (minimum of a graded Certificate IV or above. A completed graded qualification will make you competitive for many some degrees at UNSW) or study at another university for a minimum of 0.75 full-time equivalent study load.
Once you have completed any of the above, we can then use the results you receive to assess you for entry into our degrees.
An alternative for someone without an assessable qualification noted above, and also interested in studying either the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of International Public Health or Bachelor of Science only, is to complete UAC's Special Tertiary Admissions Test or STAT. To be eligible for admission with STAT results, you must be 21 years old or older by 1 March in the year you start your undergraduate study at UNSW and achieve a minimum score of 165 in the STAT Multiple Choice and 150 in the STAT Written English. STAT test results are valid for 3 years. Note: Admission via STAT results is a pilot only and may be withdrawn at any time.
As everyone's situation is unique, it's probably best that we have a chat to discuss your specific circumstances and what may be the best option for you. Please ring the Future Students Office on (02) 9385 1844 or submit a question.
- I have a Senior Secondary Qualification (completed more than 2 years ago)
High School Students
Accepted Qualifications
As a current high school student, your admission to UNSW will be based on your Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) that you receive after completing your Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (such as the HSC).
If you're completing something other than the NSW HSC, here’s a list of other qualifications that UNSW considers for entry:
- NSW HSC and Interstate Year 12 Qualifications
- International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
- GCE A-Levels
- New Zealand NCEA Level 3
- Overseas secondary qualifications considered equivalent to Australian studies
If the qualification you've completed isn't listed above, please enter the country where you completed your qualification below for a list of the accepted qualifications from that country.
If you hold an overseas secondary qualification from a country where English is not the standard language used in education, please check our English language proficiency requirements.
Check the English Language Requirements
You can find the previous year's Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) for entry into UNSW degrees using Find a Degree. Generally, the LSR for a degree shows the minimum Selection Rank needed by applicants when offers were made. LSRs can vary from year to year, so please use the published LSRs as a guide only.
If you want to discuss your particular qualification or have any questions about how you'll be assessed for admission, please call us on (02) 9385 1844 or Ask a Question.
Apply through UAC
All applications for undergraduate study from Australian citizens, permanent residents and New Zealand citizens are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). And the good news is that it's really easy to apply.
Just visit the 'Apply' section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees you’d like to study in order of your preference (e.g. 1 your most desired degree/uni to 5 your least desired degree/uni - but you'd still be happy to study it if you don't get an offer for 1-4).
On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year. If you like to pay late fees, you can still apply after the on-time application date.
For study starting in Semester 1 and Term 1, UNSW makes the majority of offers in December and January.
Additional Entry Requirements
It's also a good idea to check if your preferred degree has any extra entry requirements (aka Additional Selection Criteria). This might be a separate application, interview, audition or test. If you don't complete these, you won't be able to get an offer to that degree. You can quickly find out if your degree has any extra entry requirements by using Find a Degree (under your degree look for "ATAR + ..." in the ATAR Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) field).
Prerequisites
Finally, you've probably heard of prerequisites. If not, don't worry - we don't have them at UNSW - but, we sometimes assume that you will have completed certain subjects in the HSC. We call this Assumed Knowledge. To see if your preferred degree has any Assumed Knowledge, use Find a Degree. What are you supposed to do if you haven't completed an Assumed Knowledge subject for your degree? First, don't panic. Second, consider how important that subject may be to the degree. If your answer is, "I hate maths" perhaps an Engineering degree may not be the right degree for you. Third, consider completing a Bridging Course. If you don't, you'll definitely be at a disadvantage. Check out the ones below offered by UNSW - but you could complete one anywhere.
Check out UNSW Bridging Courses »
Useful Links
Accommodation
Accommodation
Living on campus at UNSW Australia provides more than just a place to live. It provides a home - as supportive, safe and secure, as a true home should be.
You can choose from fully catered or self-catered residential colleges on campus, independent living on campus, or renting privately in the local area. You’ll find more information at the UNSW Accommodation website.
Admission Pathways
Admission Pathways
There are a number of ways we can help you get into UNSW. If you’re eligible, these, combined with your ATAR or equivalent, may assist you in meeting our entry requirements.
Portfolio Entry
At the UNSW School of Art & Design and UNSW School of Built Environment, we're always looking for creative talent. Demonstrate your creative potential by preparing and submitting a portfolio of art, design, media, or written work.
Built Environment Portfolio Entry
Faculty of Engineering Admissions Scheme (FEAS)
At UNSW Engineering we strive for a better world, driven by our graduates who are passionate in creating solutions for humanity through their diverse perspectives. Complete a FEAS submission to demonstrate your passion for engineering and performance in relevant subjects.
Bachelor of Information Systems Admissions Scheme (BISAS)
The Bachelor of Information Systems will equip you with the skills and knowledge to shape the technology that fuels the economy. Complete a BISAS submission to demonstrate your passion for information systems and performance in relevant subjects.
Rural Student Entry Scheme and Indigenous Entry into Medicine Scheme
UNSW Medicine offers two entry pathways into Medicine. If you have a significant rural background or are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person you may be interested in these schemes.
Educational Disadvantage
Educational Disadvantage
Educational Access Scheme
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don’t always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12.
If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree. Don’t forget, you need to be as specific as possible in your application about how your circumstances have directly impacted your study.
UNSW Gateway Early Conditional Offer
UNSW Gateway is an admission pathway for students in Years 11 & 12 attending Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides you with an early conditional offer to UNSW.
Exchange
Exchange
At UNSW, there are so many ways to incorporate an exchange adventure into your degree and study in a country you're passionate about. You just need to decide on when and where.
UNSW offers exchange opportunities at over 200 universities in 39 countries. Basing yourself in Asia, North America, Europe or South America at one of the world's top universities, you could learn a new language, get to know a different culture, establish global professional networks and make lasting international friendships.
All UNSW students who meet the criteria are eligible to apply for exchange and there are even scholarships to help you on your way. Students can go on exchange for a semester/term or for one year. If you enrol in some degrees, such as the Bachelor of International Studies, one-year on exchange is built right into your degree.
For more information, visit the UNSW International website.
Indigenous Students
Indigenous Students
UNSW offers a range entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study. Throughout these programs, you will be assessed on your commitment, attitude and aptitude towards your studies and your ability to participate academically in your selected discipline.
The programs outlined below are administered by Nura Gili. Nura Gili provides support and information for future and current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at UNSW.
UNSW Indigenous Preparatory Programs (Pre-Programs)
The Pre-Program for Business, Education, Law, Medicine, Science and Engineering, and Social Work is a three-week residential program that involves participation in lectures, tutorials, group work, social activities, exams and assessments. Selection for the program is based on the submission of an application.
Indigenous Preparatory Programs
UNSW Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS)
IAS is a one-day alternative entry program that involves an application through Nura Gili. You will be invited to visit Nura Gili to have a conversation with faculty and Nura Gili staff about your aspirations for university studies and undertake a written and numeracy task. The scheme is suitable for students wishing to undertake an undergraduate degree in Arts and Social Science (excluding Education and Social Work), Art and Design, Built Environment, Exercise Physiology, Engineering and/or Science.
Enabling programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People
The Humanities Pathway Program is a one-year program that provides a pathway into academic study in Arts, Social Sciences and Law for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who may need to gain further knowledge in their selected discipline or better prepare themselves for university.
Nura Gili also organises a number of popular programs such as the UNSW Indigenous Winter School for students in Years 10, 11 and 12.
For current students, staff are available to assist students with academic and administrative issues, housing and scholarships and pastoral support. The unit also manages the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) and facilitates programs to recruit and support Indigenous students at UNSW at all levels of study.
Internal Program Transfer
Internal Program Transfer
Maybe you didn’t get it right when you chose your degree or maybe you didn’t get into the degree you wanted to do in the first place. Either way, if you would like to change the UNSW degree you’re currently studying, then you can apply for an internal transfer.
Find out more about the internal program transfer requirements below.
Pathways
UNSW Prep Program
We don’t want to miss out on great students. If you are eligible for the ACCESS Scheme, or are an Indigenous student applying via Nura Gili, you can also apply for UNSW Prep.
UNSW Prep is specifically designed for school leavers aged 17-19 to help you gain the skills and confidence needed for academic success.
UNSW Prep will give you time to develop core academic skills in smaller classes with excellent tutors. Starting your UNSW studies gradually, so that you can excel throughout your degree is what UNSW Prep is all about. That’s not to say it’s easy. Application is competitive and to be considered you will need to show motivation and interest in your preferred study area and achieve an ATAR of at least 50.
For more information, visit the UNSW Prep website.
University Preparation Program (UPP)
The UNSW University Preparation Program (UPP) is open to adults aged 20 or older who do not satisfy the entry requirements for admission to study an undergraduate degree at UNSW and do not have an assessable tertiary qualification. By completing the UPP, you can build your academic skills by studying part-time in your area of interest. The UPP is available across four streams: Business, Engineering, Humanities and Science. Once completed, you can use your results to apply for a place in a degree at UNSW.
University Preparation Program
UNSW Foundation Studies
UNSW Foundation Studies is the longest-running and leading pre-university foundation program in Australia, offering high quality university pathway programs to UNSW and other universities for over 25 years.
Please visit our website for further information on dates and courses on offer.
UNSW Foundation Studies website
Scholarships
Scholarships
Every year we provide thousands of scholarships to help students reach their educational goals. Let us support you!
UNSW scholarships provide financial support for full-time study so you can make the most of your time as a student here. Along with short-term awards, grants and other forms of student support, we can help you realise your dreams of studying with us.
Equity scholarships
An equity scholarship may assist you if you are experiencing financial or other educational disadvantage relating to the costs of tertiary study, and it can help you reach your academic potential. There are also scholarship programs available for rural and Indigenous students, and to assist with the cost of on-campus accommodation. Equity scholarships will usually require an application via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Merit scholarships
Merit scholarships recognise students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements or other outstanding qualities such as elite sporting ability or leadership potential. Scholarships are also available to travel overseas on an exchange program, pursue Honours or undertake research projects that may help you succeed in your chosen field. Most Merit scholarships require an application online and some are awarded automatically based on Year 12 results.
To search and apply for scholarships, visit the UNSW Scholarships website.
Adjustment Factors
HSC Plus
HSC Plus rewards your strong performance in relevant HSC subjects (and equivalents) with up to five points. The points are added automatically, so there's nothing you need to do. Calculate your points and find out more below.
Access
Life isn't always smooth sailing. Things like illness, financial hardship, language difficulties and school environment may mean you don't always get your best marks in years 11 and 12. The Educational Access Scheme is designed to assist you.
Highlights
Transferring Students
Currently studying at another institution? Click here to transfer to UNSW.
University Preparation Program
This is a mature age entry pathway for students looking at studying a degree at UNSW.