The University of Sydney is one of the best in Australia and the world, with many study opportunities for both domestic and international students. The university offers a wide variety of majors and minor combinations as well as top-notch research facilities. In this article, learn all there is to know about the University of Sydney and how to apply to this institution.
About The University
The University of Sydney is a public research university that was founded in 1850. The university was informally called Sydney Uni, located in Sydney, Australia. With over 172 years of experience in moulding the minds of students from all continents of the world, the University of Sydney now serves approximately 60,968 students each year. The University of Sydney is one of the finest in the world, comprising eight academic faculties and schools. Students can benefit from bachelor, master and doctoral degrees. Sydney University is ranked amongst the world’s top 25 leading universities by academic reputation. They are also ranked first in Australia for graduate employability. What’s more, the university has rich alumni, with seven Australian prime ministers walking through their paths. Their alumni also include thirteen premiers of New South Wales and two governors-general of Australia. The University of Sydney has a lot to offer its students. Their picture-perfect campus and the beautiful Sydney outdoors life are the icing on the cake.
Why study at the University of Sydney?
From its picturesque campus amazing location to its world-class learning infrastructures, there is a lot to get you interested in studying at the University of Sydney. Below, we explore some of the reasons why you should study here.
- Wide range of scholarship opportunities
The University of Sydney offers its students a variety of scholarships, student loans, grants and other forms of financial aid to help make their stay and journey in the university hitch-free. These scholarships are made available to both domestic and international students pursuing any degree level at the university.
- A top research university
The university is a top research university with experts and professionals in all disciplines and fields. You will be exposed to leaders that are spearheading change and addressing major socio-economic and scientific challenges. The university is also actively involved in carrying out impactful research.
- Over 200 clubs and student society
Enjoy an unforgettable student life and university experience with over 200 clubs and student societies. These clubs offer students many opportunities to learn new skills and make new friends. You are also able to have a feel of many cultures through their diverse, vibrant and inclusive campus life.
- Has a large study abroad and exchange program
The University of Sydney has the largest study abroad and exchange program, which is sure to enrich the students’ university experience. Students are able to experience new cultures and make friends from across the globe.
- The ability to customize your degrees
Another great reason to study at the University of Sydney is the ability to completely customize your degrees. Students can find the perfect fit with over 100 majors and minor courses to choose from. Post-graduate degrees are also very flexible, allowing you to have the perfect work-study balance.
- Beautiful and the world’s third most livable city
Sydney provides the perfect work-leisure balance with its beautiful golden beaches. The city is set around the world’s largest natural harbour so imagine the views. There is a lot to enjoy in Sydney, from world-class museums to art galleries and a variety of amazing festivals and events. The city also has top-notch restaurants with delicious fresh foods.
Admissions Requirements
To gain admission to the University of Sydney, you need to meet the admissions requirements in any of the following categories. Some courses may have additional requirements you will need to meet, such as portfolio, audition or an interview. The categories range from undergraduate to honours programs.
- Undergraduate applicants
Undergraduate admissions are based on ATAR or its equivalent. The Australian year 12 qualification also applies in this situation. You will also need a course prerequisite of mathematics for some of the courses. Undergraduate students under the early offer or the Broadway scheme would have to check the website for additional requirements.
- Applicants with higher education study
For students who completed at least a year of studies at a higher institution, their results from that year will be considered during admissions. The students must have a minimum of 48 credits or the equivalent. If you are already a student at the University of Sydney, you will need to apply internally for a transfer from one-degree program to another. A record of failure will be detrimental to your application process at the University of Sydney.
- Applicants with vocational education and training study
If you hold a diploma in training that the university considers relevant to the course you are applying for; the diploma would be considered as part of your application. Depending on the course you are applying for, you may be required to present a portfolio or be present for an interview.
- Applicants with work and life experience
Students applying for the mature age entry would have been above 21 years old and have completed any of the following courses within the past two years of the application.
- Open foundation course offered by the University of New castle
- Certificate IV in tertiary preparation offered at an NSW TAFE institute
- University preparation program (UPP) offered at UNSW Australia
- Limited ATAR (NSW HSC).
- Applicants with overseas qualifications
Overseas applicants would need to attach an English language proficiency exam result alongside a secondary qualification. Check the university’s website for secondary qualifications that are accepted.
- Applicants with Australian Defense Force (Including Reserves) Experience
The University of Sydney accepts holders of military ranks for admission into degree programs. Additional requirements may apply depending on the course they are applying to.
How to Apply (Domestic and International Students)
The University of Sydney promises students a hassle-free application process. The application for undergraduate, postgraduate and honours programs may differ slightly in terms of requirements, but the general process is the same. Outlined below is the general application process for the University of Sydney for both domestic and international students.
General process
- Step 1: Choose a course
The University of Sydney offers students a wide variety of courses to choose from. You can easily find all the courses available by using the “course search” option on their website. The site allows you to filter the searches by area of interest and level. Once you have narrowed down on what you want to study, click on the course to learn the course content, admission requirements, application deadlines and potential career options. Check whether or not the course you have chosen has inherent requirements. It should be indicated on the web page.
- Step 2: Check your eligibility
Check to ensure that you are eligible for the course you are applying for. There are several things you would have to check, such as the English requirements for the course. For undergraduate applications, you need a recognized qualification with the required grades. Post-graduate applicants must have completed a recognized tertiary program with the required GPA. Also, check for any other requirements that the course may have.
- Step 3: gather your documents.
The third step is to ensure that all application documents are available and handy. Check the required documents for each course and get them ready before commencing the application process. If the course you are applying for requires a supplementary application, it will be included on the web page.
If your documents are not in English, please make sure to include complementary translated copies of the document made by an accredited translator. For students needing a study visa, the university would require some additional documents.
- Step 4: Check your finances
Can you afford it? Would you need financial help to finish the course? These are questions to ask yourself. Make sure you understand the fees you will be required to shoulder. These fees include the course fees and any other additional fees you will need to pay. While you are at it, check out financial aid options that you may be eligible for.
- Step 5: Submit your application
After going through the first four steps, you can then go ahead and submit your application. There are several ways to apply. You can apply to the University of Sydney directly; apply through an authorized agent or through the UAC website. Some courses require that you apply directly to the school. To do so, hit the ‘apply now button on the course page you selected. You will be required to pay an application fee of AUD$125. If you prefer to use an agent, only agents listed on the University of Sydney website will be recognized. You can also apply through the UAC (University Admissions Center) if you are applying for undergraduate courses.
Documents Required
The application process requires that you include the documents that will support your applications. For domestic students, you will need scanned copies of your identification documents. You are a domestic student if you fall in any of these categories:
- You hold a permanent Australian humanitarian visa
- You are a citizen of Australia or New Zealand. This also extends to the holders of dual citizenship.
- Be a permanent resident of Australia.
For international students, you will need to have the following documents attached to your application:
- Scanned copies of the identification page of your passport
- Marriage/change of name certificate
- English language proficiency results
- Degree certificate, if any
- Academic transcript
- Scholarship documentation, if any
Application Deadlines
The University of Sydney has two intakes every year for the first and the second semester. Semester one intake happens in February, while semester two intake happens in August. Some courses do not feature in both semesters, so ensure that you are applying for the right semester. The list below is the standard application deadline for a majority of courses. Some closing dates may vary, so you might want to check that.
- Domestic undergraduate coursework
If you apply through the UAC website, then you will be provided with exact dates and deadline extensions, if there are any. General applications for undergraduates are open two years in advance. Semester 1 applications close on 31 January, while semester two applications close on 15 July.
- Postgraduate research
Post-graduate research applications are accepted year-round. However, it is advisable to apply at least six to eight weeks before the course begins. The University of Sydney offers four research periods each year from which you can choose.
| Period | Enrolments open | Application deadline | Course starts |
| Research period 1 | Mid-November | 21 January | 31 January |
| Research period 2 | 1 February | 21 March | 31 march |
| Research period 3 | 1 April | 21 July | 31 august |
| Research period 4 | 1 September | 21 October | 31 October |
- International students
International students applying for degree programs at the University of Sydney through the UAC website should refer to the website for updated information regarding application deadlines. Depending on your course program, you may need to apply directly to the University of Sydney. However, the standard application deadlines are as follows: 15 January for semester one and 25 June for semester 2.
- Honours programs
Honours programs also run for two semesters. The applications for honours programs in the University of Sydney open the years before the course commences on 30 August for semester one and the 31 January for semester 2. Applications close on 15 January and 25 June, respectively.
Wrap Up
The University of Sydney is a warehouse of opportunities waiting for you to jump in and explore. There is something for everybody, and every student gets the rare opportunity to customize a dream degree program for them all while enjoying a unique student experience. Their admission requirements are minimal and easy. If you lack any of the prerequisites for a course, their staff support can provide you with options to choose from.
There is a lot to love from the campus, whose beauty is only matched with the golden sun-kissed beaches. Students can also enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities, including beach sports, long walks off the shore and indulging in the freshest meals from the best restaurants. Apply today and be a part of the great minds that have walked the halls of the University of Sydney.
FAQ
- How do I know the University of Sydney is right for me?
Many students applying to the University of Sydney want to be sure that the university is the right fit for them. They also want to know that it will be the right environment for them to learn. Well, the University of Sydney has made this for them. You can hear from current students of the university on the ‘my Sydney Uni experience’ page where they share what studying in the university is like, from campus life to the student body. You can also have a taste of some degree programs that the school offers by attending any of the 77 mini-lectures that the university offers to potential students. This way, you can determine if the university of Sydney is for you before enrolling.
- How do I plan a dream degree?
Many students want to have their dream degree but have the liberty to spread their wings and free out different courses and fields. The university offers you the opportunity to combine your interests and create a unique degree program for yourself. Students can choose from a wide array of majors and minors. Their university’s “combine your interest” page allows you to start planning your dream degree ahead of time. You can also get a feel for your courses by attending mini-lectures.
- What would I do if I didn’t do math?
This year, the University of Sydney made math a prerequisite for some of its courses. Some students find this as a challenge when applying to the university. If you didn’t do mathematics or did not meet the cut for the course you are applying to; there are other ways to take your dream course even without math. The university offers students mini-lectures in math to make up for that gap. You can also visit the course advice centre for more student-specific course guidance.
- What if I didn’t get the ATAR I needed?
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank is an important part of your application. Not only is it an indicator of your abilities, but it can also help get you through the door. However, it is NOT the only indicator we consider. If you didn’t get the ATAR you need for a course, there are still many options to choose from. You can consult the university’s support staff to help you determine other options and admissions pathways. There is also the option to start in one course and later transfer to another course after your first year. You can also attend the university’s mini-lectures on admissions options to help you navigate getting into the university.
- How do I finalize my UAC preferences?
We understand your worry if you are unsure about how preferences work on the UAC website. The University of Sydney has made a mini-lecture understanding UAC preference available to students to help them get a grasp on the concept. If you worry that you may not be making the right choice for your courses, then the mini-lectures will also clarify the matter.