UNSW Scholarships for International Students Commencing Term 1, 2027
Offered by University of New South Wales
Location
Australia
Funding
Partially Funded
Study level
Undergraduate; Postgraduate Coursework
Field of study
All Fields
Application deadline
October 30, 2026
About This Scholarship
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) offers a range of scholarships for international students planning to begin full-time undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies in Term 1, 2027. Through a combined scholarship application, eligible students can be considered for several awards designed to recognise academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement and potential contribution to the university community.
Rather than providing one standard funding package to every applicant, UNSW administers several scholarships with different values, durations and eligibility requirements. Depending on the award, support may include full tuition-fee coverage, an annual contribution towards tuition fees, a one-time tuition payment or other financial assistance.
One of the main opportunities available through the application is the International Scientia Coursework Scholarship. This award offers two funding options: a full tuition-fee scholarship for the minimum duration of the eligible programme or an annual contribution of AUD 20,000 towards tuition fees. Other awards are targeted at students studying particular subjects, applicants from specified regions or students who meet additional pathway or academic requirements.
The combined application is intended for students who plan to commence their first term of study at UNSW in Term 1, 2027. Applicants must meet the relevant admission and scholarship requirements, and some awards require an admission offer by the scholarship closing date.
Understanding the Different Scholarship Awards
Applicants should review the individual awards listed on the official UNSW page because eligibility for one scholarship does not automatically mean eligibility for all the others.
1. International Scientia Coursework Scholarship
This is one of the principal awards available through the combined application. It offers two possible funding options:
Option 1: Full tuition-fee coverage for the minimum duration of the eligible programme.
Option 2: AUD 20,000 per year, paid directly towards tuition fees for the minimum duration of the eligible programme.
Applicants must be commencing full-time undergraduate or postgraduate coursework study in Term 1, 2027. The award excludes UNSW Online and UNSW Canberra programmes under the published criteria.
The two options are alternatives, not cumulative benefits. Applicants should not assume they will receive both full tuition coverage and AUD 20,000 annually.
2. UNSW Law & Justice International Award
This award provides AUD 10,000 towards tuition fees for one year. It is intended for eligible international students commencing full-time undergraduate or postgraduate coursework study in a qualifying Law and Justice programme, including the specified LLB, JD or LLM programmes, in Term 1, 2027.
Applicants should confirm that their exact programme is included in the official eligibility conditions.
3. UNSW Business School International Pathways Award
This award provides AUD 15,000 towards tuition fees for one year. It is aimed at eligible students entering an undergraduate coursework programme offered by UNSW Business School, subject to additional pathway conditions.
Applicants must meet the specific requirements relating to previous tertiary study and an approved articulation pathway qualification or the relevant UNSW Foundation Studies Commerce or Commerce Actuarial stream.
Because this award has specific entry-pathway conditions, it is not available to every international student applying for a business degree.
4. UNSW Business School International Scholarship
This scholarship provides AUD 5,000 towards tuition fees for the minimum duration of the eligible programme.
It is available to qualifying students commencing an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree offered by UNSW Business School in Term 1, 2027. Additional conditions apply to undergraduate applicants, including requirements concerning their previous educational qualifications and whether they receive the Business School International Pathways Award.
5. UNSW Hong Kong Foundation Scholarship
This award provides AUD 10,000 per year for the minimum duration of the eligible programme. It is intended for eligible international students who are citizens of Hong Kong and are commencing full-time undergraduate coursework study at UNSW in Term 1, 2027.
The nationality restriction is important: students from other countries should not assume they qualify for this particular award.
6. Dr Vincent Lo Asia Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship provides AUD 10,000 per year for the minimum duration of the eligible programme, up to five years.
It is aimed at eligible international students from Asia who are commencing full-time undergraduate coursework study at UNSW in Term 1, 2027. Applicants should check the university's definition of eligibility and any additional award conditions before applying.
Other Awards That May Not Require a Separate Scholarship Application
UNSW also lists some awards for which eligible students are considered automatically after receiving an admission offer. These awards have different eligibility requirements and are not necessarily part of the competitive application process described above.
Examples listed on the official page include:
Australia's Global University Award: AUD 10,000 for one year, applied towards tuition fees in the student's second term of the first year of study.
UNSW College Award: AUD 10,000 for one year for qualifying students progressing from a UNSW Global Foundation Studies programme to eligible undergraduate study.
UNSW Master of Laws Scholarship: AUD 20,000 for one year for eligible students entering the Master of Laws programme and meeting the specified prior-qualification requirements.
UNSW Articulation Scholarships: AUD 5,000 per year for the minimum duration of eligible engineering programmes for students who completed qualifications through specified approved partner institutions.
These awards have individual rules. Check the official scholarship page to determine whether an application is necessary or whether consideration is automatic.
Important: The International Student Award Is Different
UNSW also advertises an International Student Award that provides a 20% contribution towards tuition fees for eligible new students commencing in 2027. It has its own consideration process, including a brief statement about the applicant's motivation to study at UNSW when invited.
Do not confuse this award with the combined scholarship application for Term 1, 2027. Review its separate conditions and application instructions to determine whether it is relevant to your circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria
The precise requirements depend on the scholarship. For the combined application for international students commencing in Term 1, 2027, the university's published criteria include the following general requirements.
1. International Student Status
Applicants must meet UNSW's definition of an international student for the relevant award. Citizenship, residency status and other circumstances can affect eligibility, so applicants should read the official rules rather than relying solely on their country of origin.
2. Eligible Programme and Study Level
Applicants must plan to commence full-time study in an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programme in Term 1, 2027.
Not all UNSW programmes are included. Some awards are limited to a particular faculty, degree type, campus, academic discipline or pathway qualification.
Students intending to undertake a postgraduate research degree should consult UNSW's Graduate Research School because research scholarships follow a separate process.
3. Admission Offer
For the combined application, the published eligibility requirements state that applicants must have received an offer of admission to an eligible programme by 30 October 2026.
The university specifies acceptable offer types and conditions. Some conditional offers may qualify, but outstanding conditions relating to Genuine Student requirements or English-language requirements can affect eligibility under the published rules.
Applicants should check their own offer letter and the official scholarship conditions to determine whether their offer qualifies.
4. Academic Merit
Academic performance is a central selection consideration. Applicants should provide accurate academic information and any supporting evidence requested by the university.
A strong academic record can support an application, but it does not guarantee a scholarship. The university may consider other selection criteria and the requirements of the particular award.
5. Leadership and Extracurricular Engagement
The combined application assesses leadership skills and extracurricular activities, including involvement in school, work or community activities. Relevant experience may include volunteering, participation in student organisations, community initiatives, sporting or cultural activities, employment and other documented contributions.
Applicants should describe their actual involvement and responsibilities. Quality, relevance and evidence are more useful than simply listing many activities.
6. Motivation for Studying at UNSW
Applicants are assessed on their reasons for choosing UNSW. A thoughtful explanation should connect the chosen programme with the applicant's academic interests, previous experience and future plans.
Avoid generic statements that could apply to any university. Identify specific features of the intended programme or learning environment that are relevant to your goals, and explain how the degree fits into your plans.
7. Additional Award-Specific Requirements
Some scholarships impose extra requirements relating to nationality, subject area, previous study, approved pathway institutions or a particular degree programme.
Applicants should check every award for which they wish to be considered. Meeting the general criteria for the combined application does not automatically satisfy the requirements of every scholarship listed.
Scholarship Benefits
Depending on the award, successful applicants may receive one or more of the following benefits.
Full Tuition-Fee Coverage
The International Scientia Coursework Scholarship includes a full tuition-fee option covering the minimum duration of an eligible programme. This can significantly reduce the cost of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree.
Full tuition coverage does not automatically mean that accommodation, living expenses, flights, visa charges or other personal expenses are paid.
Annual Tuition Contributions
Several awards provide a fixed contribution towards tuition fees. Examples include AUD 20,000 per year under one International Scientia option and AUD 10,000 per year under specified awards.
The amount, payment arrangement and duration depend on the individual scholarship. Tuition contributions should not be treated as unrestricted cash grants.
One-Year or Fixed-Value Awards
Some scholarships provide a set amount for one year or for a specified period. For example, the Law & Justice International Award provides AUD 10,000 towards tuition fees for one year, while the Business School International Scholarship provides AUD 5,000 towards tuition fees for the minimum duration of the eligible programme.
Applicants should calculate the remaining tuition fees after the award is applied and determine how they will cover the balance.
Academic and Professional Opportunities
Studying at UNSW provides access to university learning resources, academic support, student activities and opportunities to participate in a diverse academic community. The scholarship itself, however, should not be interpreted as a guarantee of employment, internship placement or any particular professional outcome.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Identify an Eligible Degree
Explore UNSW's official course catalogue and choose an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programme that fits your academic background and career goals.
Confirm the programme's entry requirements, study mode, campus, duration and Term 1, 2027 commencement availability.
Step 2: Apply for Admission to UNSW
Submit your admission application and provide the documents required for the chosen programme. Depending on your circumstances, these may include academic transcripts, certificates, proof of English-language proficiency and other supporting materials.
Do not wait until the scholarship deadline to begin the admission process. The combined application requires an eligible admission offer by the relevant deadline, so allow time for processing.
Step 3: Review the Scholarship List
Visit the official scholarship page and examine the awards listed under the application code PUCA1029.
Compare the award values, eligible programmes, citizenship or regional restrictions, study level and additional conditions. Identify which awards match your actual circumstances.
Step 4: Create an Account on the Scholarship Portal
Register for the UNSW Scholarship Application Online portal, or sign in if you already have an account.
Use the official application link and follow the university's instructions for accessing the application for international students commencing in Term 1, 2027.
Step 5: Complete the Combined Application
Provide the requested personal, academic and programme information. The application assesses academic merit, leadership, extracurricular activities and reasons for undertaking study at UNSW.
Answer each question fully and accurately. UNSW states that unanswered questions and claims without supporting documentation will not be assessed, and late applications or supporting documentation will not be accepted.
Step 6: Prepare Supporting Evidence
Gather the documents and evidence required by the application. Depending on the instructions, useful preparation may include:
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Information about your intended degree and admission offer.
Evidence supporting relevant leadership or extracurricular activities.
Details of relevant volunteering, employment or community involvement.
Information needed to explain your reasons for choosing UNSW.
Any additional documents specifically requested by the scholarship application.
This is a preparation guide rather than a definitive document checklist. Follow the current portal instructions for the exact requirements.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the completed scholarship application before 11:59 p.m. AEDT on 30 October 2026. Ensure your admission offer meets the eligibility rules and that the application is complete.
Save the submission confirmation and keep copies of relevant documents and correspondence.
Step 8: Monitor Your Email and Application Portal
Check your email and scholarship portal for updates, requests for clarification or an award decision. If you receive a scholarship offer, read the terms carefully before accepting it.
Check the award's value, payment arrangements, duration, eligible programme and any conditions that must be satisfied to retain the scholarship.
How to Strengthen Your Application
Demonstrate Academic Achievement
Present your academic record accurately and ensure all requested results and qualifications are included. If the application asks for supporting information, make sure it corresponds with the claims you make.
Provide Concrete Leadership Examples
Describe what you did, the responsibilities you held and the contribution you made. For example, an applicant might discuss organising a student activity, supporting a community initiative or taking responsibility within a team—provided the example reflects their real experience.
Explain Why You Chose UNSW
Connect the chosen programme with your academic interests and future goals. Be specific about the relevance of the degree to your plans rather than relying on broad praise of the university.
Check the Rules for Each Award
If you are eligible for more than one award, read the conditions of each. Some scholarships are limited to certain nationalities, faculties, undergraduate programmes or approved pathways. Do not assume that one application makes you eligible for every listed scholarship.
Submit a Complete Application
Review every question before submitting. Confirm that information is accurate, supporting evidence is attached where requested and no required section has been left blank.
Budget for Costs Not Covered
Even a scholarship covering tuition fees may leave significant expenses. Prepare a separate budget for accommodation, food, transport, textbooks, health cover, visa-related charges, flights and other living expenses.
Do not make financial commitments based on an award until you understand the exact terms of your offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the UNSW scholarship fully funded?
Some awards offer full tuition-fee coverage, but the combined application includes scholarships with different values. Full tuition coverage does not automatically include living expenses, flights or other costs.
2. How much is the International Scientia Coursework Scholarship worth?
It offers either full tuition-fee coverage for the minimum duration of an eligible programme or AUD 20,000 per year towards tuition fees. These are alternative offers, not cumulative benefits.
3. Can undergraduate and postgraduate students apply?
Yes. The combined application covers eligible undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programmes commencing full-time in Term 1, 2027. Individual awards may be limited to particular levels or fields.
4. Can students from Nigeria apply?
Nigerian applicants may be eligible for awards that accept international students, provided they meet the relevant admission and scholarship requirements. Some awards have additional nationality or regional restrictions, so eligibility must be checked individually.
5. Do I need an admission offer before applying?
The published criteria for the combined application require an offer of admission to an eligible programme by 30 October 2026. Specific offer types and outstanding conditions are subject to UNSW's rules.
6. Does one application cover several scholarships?
The combined application allows eligible applicants to be considered for multiple awards listed under PUCA1029. However, other awards may have separate processes or may be offered automatically to eligible students.
7. Is there a separate scholarship for international research students?
Research-degree scholarships use a separate process. Students planning a PhD or another postgraduate research degree should consult UNSW's Graduate Research School.
8. When is the deadline?
The published deadline for the combined application is 30 October 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Australian Eastern Daylight Time. Applicants should submit well before the closing time.
9. Does the scholarship cover accommodation and living expenses?
The awards described on this page mainly provide tuition-fee support, although some UNSW scholarships offer other types of financial assistance. Applicants must check the specific award conditions and should not assume living costs are covered.
10. Is a scholarship guaranteed once I receive admission?
No. Admission and scholarship selection are separate decisions. Some awards require a competitive application, and the university reserves the right not to award a scholarship where applicants do not meet the criteria or sufficient merit is not demonstrated.
Final Advice
The UNSW Scholarships for International Students Commencing Term 1, 2027 application offers an opportunity to compete for several awards through one application. Funding ranges from full tuition-fee coverage to fixed tuition contributions, depending on the scholarship.
The most important steps are to secure an eligible admission offer, review the specific awards carefully, provide evidence of academic merit and relevant engagement, and submit a complete application before the deadline. Applicants should also prepare a realistic financial plan for expenses that are not covered by their chosen award.
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