University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney): Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, Courses
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The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) is a leading institution in Australia. It is currently ranked #19 world-wide and is listed under the top 10 in multiple disciplines. Nationally, it is recognized as one of Australia’s top universities. UNSW offers diverse programs, excelling in fields such as Mineral and Mining Engineering (3rd globally), Accounting and Finance, Civil Engineering, and Marketing. Known for its innovative research and industry partnerships, UNSW is dedicated to societal impact and career-ready education. Its Sydney campus, in one of the world’s most student-friendly cities, provides a vibrant academic experience.
Highlights Table
University | University of New South Wales (UNSW) |
Location | Sydney |
Established In | 1878 |
Campus | Kensington City and Paddington Canberra |
Acceptance Rate | 60% |
Popular Majors | Bachelor of Commerce (International) |
Intakes | February, June, and September |
Male: Female Ratio | 71: 29 |
University Website | https://www.unsw.edu.au/ |
UNSW Overview
UNSW traces its origins to the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts, founded in 1833, and the Sydney Technical College, established in 1878. Situated in Kensington, Australia, the university’s foundation was inspired by the demands of World War II, highlighting the critical role of science and technology in transforming Australia from an agrarian society to a modern industrial nation. Originally named the New South Wales University of Technology, it achieved university status with the enactment of the New South Wales University of Technology Act in 1949.
UNSW Acceptance Rate
The University of New South Wales has a total acceptance rate of 60%. The acceptance rate depends on factors like total applications received, seats available, and the previous year’s trends. The acceptance rate allows students to understand the difficulty level of the admission process. Therefore, it becomes crucial to understand the overall acceptance rate and seats available on each course.
UNSW Rankings
UNSW is one of the top universities in the world. It is ranked #2 in Australia and has been ranked for its quality education, supportive campus environment, graduation rate, and employment rate. The table below highlights the major rankings of the UNSW in 2024-25.
Education Analysts | Ranks 2024-25 |
QS Rank | #19 |
Australian Rank | #2 |
THE Rank | #83 |
US News and World Report | #36 |
Financial Times | #7 |
UNSW Courses: UG, PG, and Doctoral
The University of New South Wales offers 400+ courses at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. According to AFR BOSS, the UNSW’s Business School is ranked #1 in Australia for its quality education and graduation rate. Here are the popular courses offered by the University of New South Wales.
Faculty | Courses |
Arts and Humanities | Bachelor of Architectural Studies Bachelor of Architectural Studies (Honours) Bachelor of Art Theory (Honours) Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) Bachelor of Arts/Education (Secondary) |
Business and Management | Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/Commerce Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Commerce/Arts Bachelor of Commerce/Aviation (Management) Bachelor of Commerce/Economics Bachelor of Commerce/Education (Secondary) Master of Business Administration Master of Analytics Master of Public Policy and Governance |
Engineering and Technology | Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/Computer Science Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Computer Science Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) Bachelor of Aviation (Management) Bachelor of Commerce/Computer Science Bachelor of Data Science and Decisions |
Life Sciences and Medicine | Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology Bachelor of Life Sciences Bachelor of Medical Science Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine/Arts |
Natural Sciences | Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/Science Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/Science (Advanced Mathematics) (Honours) Bachelor of Advanced Mathematics (Honours)/Engineering (Honours) Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Arts |
Social Sciences and Management | Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/Law Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Law Bachelor of Arts/Law Bachelor of City Planning (Honours)/Law Bachelor of Commerce/Law Bachelor of Commerce/Media |
How to Apply for Admission at UNSW?
The admission process at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) varies slightly depending on the type of program and whether you’re a domestic or international applicant. Here’s an overview:
Step 1: Choose a Program and Check Entry Requirements
Prospective students should explore the degree options using UNSW’s Degree Finder and review the specific entry requirements, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and any additional criteria like portfolios or auditions for certain courses. Postgraduate applicants may also need relevant work experience for some programs
Step 2: Submit Application
- Undergraduate Applications: Domestic students apply via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC), while international students can apply directly through the UNSW application portal or authorized agents. You can nominate up to five degree preferences in your application.
- Postgraduate Applications: These are submitted directly to UNSW. Applicants must provide academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and any additional documents like CVs or letters of recommendation
Step 3: English Language Proficiency
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Alternatively, completing a recognized pathway program may also meet this requirement.
Step 4: Receive and Accept an Offer
After applying, UNSW will review it and notify successful candidates via email. To accept the offer, students follow the instructions provided, which include payment of the deposit for international students. Key deadlines for acceptance are outlined in the offer letter.
Step 5: Enroll in Courses
Once the offer is accepted, students can enroll in their chosen courses through the myUNSW portal. Support is provided during orientation to help students transition smoothly.
Quick Read: A Guide to Intakes in Australia
UNSW Tuition Fees
Before applying for admission at UNSW, applicants must understand the tuition fee structure. Tuition fees vary for each faculty and academic level. Most UG degrees at UNSW offer Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) that subsidize the cost of the degree. Here’s a table highlighting the tuition fees at UNSW.
Faculty | Cost per unit of credit (AU$) |
Arts, Design, and Architecture | $970 to $1,005 |
UNSW Business School | $1,125 to $1,235 |
Engineering | $1,220 |
Law and Justice | $1,220 |
Medicine and Health | $1,260 |
UNSW Canberra | $1,005 |
UNSW Science | $1,220 |
Multi-disciplinary and Pathway | $940 |
Student Accommodation New UNSW
International students at UNSW and other universities in Sydney are offered unique housing options. These properties are divided into two types: on-campus and off-campus properties. On-campus properties are managed by the University and off-campus by private individuals. Here are the most trusted off-campus student accommodation near UNSW.
UNSW Scholarships
Applicants who’ve received offer letters from the University of New South Wales can apply for a wide range of scholarships. The University and the Australian Government offers multiple scholarship opportunities for international students. These scholarships are designed to provide financial assistance to students based on their academic record and other requirements. Here are the top scholarships at UNSW.
Scholarships | Awards/ Amount |
International Scientia Coursework Scholarship | Full tuition fee support/ or AU$ 20,000 p.a. |
Australia’s Global University Award | AU$ 10,000 p.a. |
India Future of Change Scholarship | AU$ 10,000 p.a. |
UNSW College Award | AU$ 10,000 for first year UG students |
International Student Award | 15% tuition fee waived off |
UNSW Continuing Scholars Award | AU$ 5,000 Continuing Scholars Award |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is UNSW popular?
UNSW is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. It is listed among top educational analysts, including QS, THE, US World News, etc. UNSW is a renowned institution, known for its quality education, unique research programs, student-friendly and modern campus environment. It is one of the few universities offering 100% scholarship opportunities to international students. Its graduates are among the highest paid employees in the world.
Is UNSW expensive for international students?
Studying at UNSW can be expensive for a lot of international students. The annual cost of studying in Sydney is AU$ 35,000 to AU$ 48,000. However, international students can also apply for scholarships and awards, which offer up to 100% tuition fee waived off.
What is the ranking of University of New South Wales?
UNSW is ranked #19 globally and is listed among the top universities in individual subject categories. It is also ranked #2 in Australia.
How much is tuition fee in UNSW?
UNSW’s tuition fee for undergraduate students is AU$ 970 to AU$ 1,220/ credit. Students must visit the university website and check their total tuition fees and other academic expenses.
What is the acceptance rate for international students at UNSW?
UNSW has an overall acceptance rate of 60% for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Students must visit the official website and check the individual courses’ acceptance rate and the factors affecting it.
What are the best student accommodation in Sydney?
Some of the most trusted and ideal student accommodation in Sydney:
- Y Suits on Gibbons
- LIV Indigo
- The Switch Kensington
- 6 Bunmarra St
- 19 Grand Stand Parade
- 2 Sam Sing
- 13 Joynton Avenue
- 604 Crown Street