UNSW World Rankings, Acceptance Rate & What Makes New South Wales Unique
Studying at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a top choice for Indian students planning to study in Australia in 2025. With world-class rankings, extensive scholarship opportunities, and a vibrant Sydney campus, UNSW draws thousands of international applicants each year. If you want a globally recognized degree, strong employability, and an unforgettable student experience, UNSW stands out as a leading destination.
University of New South Wales (UNSW): At a Glance (2025)
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kensington, Sydney, Australia |
| Founded | 1949 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 20 in Australia, Top 50 Globally |
| Acceptance Rate | 30–40% |
| Strongest Subjects | Engineering, Law, Business, Environmental Science |
| Number of Students | Over 59,000 (2024) |
| Indian Students | 1200+; aiming for 4,000 by 2025 |
| English Tests Accepted | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
| Application Deadline | Term 1: Nov 30, 2024 | Term 2: Mar 31 | Term 3: Jul 31 |
| Contact (International) | international.student@unsw.edu.au | +61 2 9385 1000 |
UNSW Sydney is a prestigious public research university, renowned for its innovation, industry ties, and vibrant multicultural atmosphere. Its Kensington campus in Sydney is spread across 94 acres, offering a safe, lively, and accessible environment for students from over 120 countries.
Why Choose UNSW Sydney in 2025?
- Ranks among the top 50 global universities (QS World Rankings 2025).
- Strong industry connections and graduate employability rankings.
- Wide course offerings—over 400 degrees across disciplines.
- Significant scholarships and awards for Indian & international students.
- Located in Sydney, one of the world’s safest and most dynamic student cities.
- Robust support for part-time jobs and post-study work visas.
With a focus on practical education, UNSW is highly regarded by employers and is a gateway to global job opportunities. Whether you’re looking at engineering, business, or the sciences, UNSW prepares graduates for success worldwide.
UNSW Rankings & Global Recognition (2025)
- QS World University Rankings 2025: Top 20 in Australia, Top 50 worldwide
- THE World University Rankings 2024: 84th globally
- AACSB & EQUIS Accredited Business School
- Ranked among world’s best for Engineering, Law, Accounting & Finance
| Ranking Framework | 2024/25 Rank |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | 19 (Australia), Top 50 (Global) |
| THE World University Rankings | 84 |
| Subject Rankings | 42 subjects in global Top 100 |
Popular Courses & Programmes at UNSW
- Engineering (Mineral & Mining, Petroleum, Civil, Structural)
- Law and Legal Studies
- Accounting & Finance
- Psychology & Social Sciences
- Environmental Sciences, Earth & Marine Sciences
- Business, Management, Data Science
| Level | Number of Courses |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 165+ |
| Postgraduate | 164+ |
| Doctoral, Diploma, Certificate | Various (100+) |
UNSW allows students to customize study plans, with flexible options to combine specializations. Each course is designed for industry relevance and global skill-building.
Eligibility, Exams & Admission Criteria for Indians (2025)
- Academic Requirements: Indian 12th (CBSE/ISC/state boards) recognized as equivalent
- Minimum GPA: 3.3 on 4-point scale or equivalent
- SAT/ACT: SAT 1090–1840; ACT 22–29 (where required)
- English Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE mandatory for non-native speakers
- Other Documents: SOP, transcripts, LORs, valid passport
| Test | Direct Entry Requirement |
|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 overall (Minimum 6.0 in writing & subscores) |
| TOEFL iBT | 94 overall (Writing 25, subscores 23+) |
| PTE Academic | 65 overall (Writing 54, subscores 54+) |
For more test requirements and tips, check out IELTS Exam details and SAT Exam guide.
Application Process & Deadlines (2025 Intakes)
- Apply online via the official UNSW application portal
- Pay non-refundable application fee—AUD 150
- Upload all academic & English proficiency documents
- Track application status and receive your offer letter
- Apply for your Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) post-acceptance
| Intake Term | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Term 1 (Autumn) | November 30, 2024 |
| Term 2 (Spring) | March 31, 2025 |
| Term 3 (Winter) | July 31, 2025 |
Make sure you gather all required transcripts, test scores, and passport documents before the deadline. Letters of Recommendation and Statement of Purpose are essential for many postgraduate courses. For in-depth SOP writing tips, see our SOP writing guide.
Fees, Costs, and Scholarships for Indian Students
- Undergraduate Tuition: From AUD 36,000–AUD 46,000 per year
- Postgraduate Tuition: From AUD 38,000–AUD 50,000 per year
- Estimated Living Expenses: AUD 25,000–AUD 28,000 per year
- Books & Supplies (year 1): AUD 4,000 (estimated)
| Expense | Estimated Annual Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition (UG/PG) | 36,000 – 50,000 |
| On-campus (Catered) | 21,000 – 35,000 |
| On-campus (Self-catered) | 22,000 – 42,000 |
| Books & Miscellaneous | 4,000+ |
UNSW offers generous financial aid for international students. Scholarship opportunities include:
- UNSW International Student Award
- India Future of Change Scholarship
- Equity Scholarships
- UNSW Business School International Scholarship
- UNSW Global Academic Award, Scientia Scholarship
Awards can range from AUD 5,000 to AUD 20,000 per year. High-achieving Indian students are encouraged to apply early for merit-based aid. For more information on scholarships, check our Study Abroad Scholarships page.
Visa Information & Post-Study Work in Australia
- Student Visa (subclass 500) required for all full-time international students
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) is essential for visa application
- Proof of funds and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) mandatory
- Processing time: 4–6 weeks (apply early)
- Post-study work visa: Up to 3 years after graduation for eligible degrees
Indian students enjoy generous post-graduation work rights in Australia. For details on post-study opportunities, visit post-study work visa guides (note: check Australia-specific rules).
UNSW Campus Life: Accommodation & Student Experience
- Four campuses: Kensington (main, Sydney), Paddington, CBD, Canberra
- On-campus and off-campus housing options with support for new arrivals
- Over 300 student clubs, societies & vibrant Indian cultural groups
- 24/7 campus security, international student support, mental health resources
- Top-tier sports, libraries, cafes, and innovation hubs
Living in Sydney means you’ll experience a multicultural city, access to beaches, parks, and an outstanding public transport network. UNSW’s student community is lively and welcoming, especially for Indian and Asian students seeking a home away from home.
Career Prospects & Job Opportunities after UNSW
- Part-time jobs available on and off campus for international students (up to 48 hours per fortnight)
- Dedicated career services to help with internships, CV building, and placements
- Strong employer partnerships and job fairs throughout the year
- Access to Sydney’s dynamic industries—IT, finance, consulting, engineering, healthcare
UNSW alumni are leaders in their fields, winning Nobel Prizes and holding top positions worldwide. The university’s degrees are globally recognized, supporting migration and PR (Permanent Residency) pathways if you aim to settle in Australia.
Also read: Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the World
Important Contacts & Useful UNSW Links
- Website: unsw.edu.au
- Main Address: Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
- International Office Email: international.student@unsw.edu.au
- Phone: +61 2 9385 1000
The University of New South Wales remains a top destination for Indian students in 2025 due to its excellence in education, research, employability, and vibrant campus environment. If you are planning a future in Australia, UNSW’s practical learning, scholarship support, and post-study work pathways can make your international education goals a reality.
FAQs on Is the University of New South Wales a Prestigious Choice in 2025-26?
1. Is UNSW a prestigious university?
UNSW (University of New South Wales) is considered one of Australia's most prestigious universities. It is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide, known for its strong academic research, industry connections, and innovative teaching methods. UNSW is a founding member of the Group of Eight, an alliance of elite Australian universities.
2. What is New South Wales best known for?
New South Wales (NSW) is best known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. It also stands out for its beautiful beaches, multicultural cities, rich history, and diverse national parks like the Blue Mountains and Royal National Park. NSW is a hub for education, business, and cultural experiences in Australia.
3. What is the acceptance rate of UNSW?
The acceptance rate at UNSW generally ranges from 30% to 40% for undergraduate international applicants. This can vary depending on the specific program and the applicant's academic background, as some degrees, such as Medicine or Law, are highly competitive.
4. How is UNSW ranked in the world?
UNSW is ranked among the top 50 universities globally in most major rankings. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, UNSW is placed at Rank #19 globally for Graduate Employability and #19 for Engineering and Technology. Its overall QS ranking is typically within the top 45-50 worldwide.
5. Where is the University of New South Wales located?
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is located in Kensington, a suburb of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Its main campus is 7 km from Sydney’s CBD. The address is: UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
6. What are the tuition fees for international students at UNSW?
UNSW tuition fees for international students generally range from AUD $38,000 to $49,000 per year for undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. Fees vary based on the chosen program, with courses like Engineering, Medicine, Business, and Law typically being higher.
7. What are popular graduate programs at UNSW?
UNSW offers a wide range of reputable graduate programs, including:
- Master of Engineering
- Master of Commerce (MCom)
- Master of Data Science
- Master of Public Health
- MBA (AGSM)
- Postgraduate Law degrees
8. Does UNSW offer study abroad opportunities?
Yes, UNSW provides a variety of study abroad and exchange programs for domestic and international students. These allow students to study for one or two semesters at UNSW or with global partner universities, earning credits that count towards their degree. Scholarships and grants may be available for eligible students.
9. What is the academic calendar at UNSW?
UNSW’s academic year is divided into three Term-based Teaching Periods (Term 1, Term 2, and Term 3). The academic year usually starts in February/March and ends in November/December, with course breaks between terms. Some programs also offer a Summer Term in January/February.
10. What is the QS ranking of the University of New South Wales?
As per the QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of New South Wales is ranked #19 globally for Graduate Employability and sits within the top 45-50 universities worldwide overall. The university also consistently ranks highly in subject-specific QS rankings such as Engineering, Business, and Law.
11. What are reviews of UNSW like?
Student reviews of UNSW are generally positive, highlighting high teaching standards, modern facilities, vibrant campus life, and strong career support services. Students appreciate the university’s location in Sydney and its extensive industry partnerships. Some note that certain courses can be demanding but rewarding.
12. How can I find jobs at the University of New South Wales?
To apply for jobs at UNSW, visit the official UNSW Careers & Employment website or the main university jobs portal. Here you can view openings for academic, research, and professional staff positions, as well as internship and student jobs. The portal is updated regularly and provides details on application processes.
