An overview of University of New South Wales

Posted by : Kaushik Dasgupta

Author Designation : Operational Head

An overview of University of New South Wales

Founded in 1949, the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) is a world-leading teaching and research-intensive university located in the heart of Sydney, Australia. Originally established as the New South Wales University of Technology, the institution was created to meet the growing demand for skilled engineers and technologists in the post-war era. In 1958, it was renamed the University of New South Wales to reflect its expanded curriculum and research capacity. Since its inception, UNSW has played a pivotal role in innovation, scientific advancement, and social impact. With a mission to improve lives globally through research excellence, educational innovation, and societal engagement, the university has grown into a globally recognized institution.

Global Rankings and Recognition

UNSW Sydney consistently ranks among the top universities in Australia and worldwide. Its reputation is built on strong academic programs, groundbreaking research, and a commitment to equity and diversity.

• QS World University Rankings 2025: #19 globally
• Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings 2025: #71
• US News Best Global Universities: #37
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): Top 100 globally
• Member of the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8), Australia’s leading research-intensive universities

UNSW is also ranked #1 in Australia for innovation and is highly regarded for its graduate employability and business, engineering, and law programs.

Courses and Course Fees

Undergraduate Courses

UNSW offers over 120 undergraduate programs across faculties:

• Arts, Design & Architecture
• Business
• Engineering
• Law & Justice
• Medicine & Health
• Science

Popular Undergraduate Programs & Annual Fees (approximate for international students):

• Bachelor of Commerce: AUD 47,760
• Bachelor of Engineering (Hons): AUD 49,600
• Bachelor of Computer Science: AUD 49,600
• Bachelor of Science (Advanced Mathematics): AUD 46,080
• Bachelor of Law/Arts (Double Degree): AUD 48,780

Postgraduate Courses

UNSW offers over 400 postgraduate programs, including coursework and research degrees:

• MBA (AGSM): AUD 91,350 total (ranked #1 in Australia)
• Master of Engineering: AUD 48,240
• Master of Data Science: AUD 49,920
• Master of International Business: AUD 48,240
• Master of Public Health: AUD 47,760

Note: Fees vary by specialization and course length.

4. Intakes and Application Deadlines

UNSW offers two major intakes each year:

• Term 1 (February) – Main intake
• Term 2 (May)
• Term 3 (September)

Application Deadlines:

• Term 1: Mid-November (previous year)
• Term 2: Mid-March
• Term 3: Mid-July

It is advisable for international students to apply 3–6 months in advance to secure admission and arrange for visa processing.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: Completion of Year 12 (Australian HSC or equivalent international qualification)
• ATAR Equivalent: Typically, 85–98, depending on the program
• English Proficiency:
• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each band)
• TOEFL iBT: 90
• PTE Academic: 64

Postgraduate Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution in a related discipline
• GPA Requirement: Minimum GPA equivalent of 65% or higher (may vary by program)
• English Proficiency:
• IELTS: 7.0 for Law, Medicine, and Business; 6.5 for others

Scholarships and Their Eligibility

UNSW provides a wide range of scholarships for international students based on academic excellence, leadership, and financial need.

UNSW International Scholarships

• Value: Full or partial tuition fee waivers (up to AUD 20,000 per year)
• Eligibility: Academic merit, leadership, and extracurricular achievements

UNSW Global Academic Excellence Scholarships

• Value: AUD 10,000 - AUD 20,000 annually
• Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic performance (ATAR equivalent 98+)

Future of Change Scholarships (For Indian students)

• Value: AUD 5,000 - AUD 10,000
• Eligibility: Indian citizens applying for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework

Australia Awards Scholarships

• Value: Full tuition, living allowance, travel, and health coverage
• Eligibility: Citizens of eligible countries in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East

Notable Alumni

UNSW has an influential global alumni network of over 300,000 graduates, including leaders in government, business, technology, and the arts:

• Scott Morrison – Former Prime Minister of Australia
• Clover Moore – Lord Mayor of Sydney
• Mike Cannon-Brookes – Co-founder and CEO, Atlassian
• David Gonski AC – Businessman and Chancellor of UNSW
• Marise Payne – Former Minister for Foreign Affairs and Women
• Dr. Alan Finkel – Australia's former Chief Scientist

Placement Report (Last 3 Years)

Graduate Employment Rate

• 2023:
• Undergraduate: 78%
• Postgraduate: 92%
• 2022:
• Undergraduate: 76%
• Postgraduate: 90%
• 2021:
• Undergraduate: 75%
• Postgraduate: 88%

Median Graduate Salaries (Annual)

• Undergraduate: AUD 66,000
• Postgraduate Coursework: AUD 80,000
• MBA Graduates (AGSM): AUD 115,000

UNSW supports employability through its Career Accelerator initiative, Work Integrated Learning (WIL), industry placements, and alumni mentoring. The university has strong ties with major firms such as Deloitte, PwC, Accenture, BHP, Google, and Amazon.

Conclusion

The University of New South Wales is a leading global university known for its strong research culture, practical teaching, innovation, and global engagement. With flexible intakes, a broad range of high-ranking programs, world-class faculty, and a vibrant campus life in Sydney, UNSW is an excellent destination for students seeking career-ready education. Scholarships, international student support, and robust industry connections further make UNSW an attractive option for upcoming intake students.

FAQs

Q1. When is the best time to apply for UNSW Sydney?
A1. The best time to apply is at least 6 months before the intake. Term 1 (February) is the most popular intake.

Q2. Are there any scholarships for Indian students?
A2. Yes, UNSW offers the Future of Change Scholarships specifically for Indian nationals, as well as several merit-based awards.

Q3. Is on-campus accommodation guaranteed?
A3. On-campus accommodation is available but not guaranteed. Apply early through UNSW’s Student Accommodation portal.

Q4. What is the IELTS score requirement for postgraduate study?
A4. Typically, 6.5–7.0 overall, depending on the program. Higher scores are required for Law, Medicine, and Business.

Q5. Can international students work part-time?
A5. Yes, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

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