Parents' guide to UNSW
What you need to know about undergraduate study as a parent or carer.
You play an important role in supporting your teen as they choose their future path
The shift from high school to university is an exciting and significant milestone for your family. We're invested in ensuring your child thrives as they begin their university journey. Let's navigate the process together – we've collated the essential information you need to know to support your child and prepare them for university life.
Applying to UNSW
Admission pathways
There's more than one path to UNSW. Our range of admission pathways recognise students' unique passions, talents and circumstances.
How to apply
Is your child ready to submit their application? Our three step guide can support them through the process of navigating UAC and getting their application submitted.
Scholarships
Our globally-recognised scholarships provide financial support, recognise excellence and help students realise their full potential.
Our degrees
Our degrees and study areas equip students with the knowledge and employable skills to ensure they graduate ready to drive progress in their desired career.
Why UNSW? At UNSW, your future student will:
Thrive at a global top 20 university
We're recognised for excellence in education and research – ranking #20 in the world (QS World University Rankings, 2026).
Graduate empowered by a career-focused curriculum
We're ranked #1 in Australia for career outcomes (QS World University Rankings, 2026).
Join a welcoming community where they belong
With our extensive student services and social experiences, we're here to support their journey.
Download our 2026 Domestic Undergraduate Student Guide
Get the key details on everything you and your child need to know about studying at UNSW, including our degrees, admission pathways, scholarships and more.
Key dates and information
Everything you need to know about what and how your child can study, key terms, important timelines and fees.
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All undergraduate applications are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). UAC's key dates for students interested in applying to study at UNSW in 2027 have not yet been finalised. The following dates provide an indication of what to expect:
- April 2026: UAC early bird applications open for 2027 admissions
- Late September 2026: UAC early bird applications close
- December 2026: ATARs are released and UAC's December Round 2 preferences close (our first major offer round)
- Late December 2026: Offers are released for December Round 2 - students will only receive one offer in each offer round
- Late December 2026: Preferences deadline for January Round 1
- Early January 2027: Offers are released for January Round 1
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Get everything you need to know about uni fees and additional costs, as well as student loans and financial assistance.
Campus life
Discover what our campus has to offer, from accomodation, campus tours to support services, you'll feel part of the community from day one.
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Living on campus provides your child with community, convenience, independence and comfort. Explore our range of accommodation options including colleges and independent apartments.
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Discover our study areas, cafés and green spaces in person or online. You and your child can explore our campus by registering for an on-campus tour, or experience a digital tour from the comfort of your own home.
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Our student support services are here to help your child succeed, regardless of what they study. We help them take on any unavoidable personal challenges with study, finances, employment and life in general.
Undergraduate events
We host a range of events for future undergraduate students and their parents – they're the best opportunity to learn more about UNSW, ask questions and figure out whether UNSW is the right fit.
Visit our Events page to see our upcoming events, summer programs and high school projects. Missed an event or want to revisit it? Our online events are also conveniently saved here for your reference.
Useful resources for parents
Ask us
If you or your child have any questions about undergraduate study or UNSW in general, please reach out to our friendly Future Student Advisers. We’re here to help.