The University of Sydney was founded in 1850, as a public research university, in Sydney, Australia. Being a member of the six Sandstone Universities, it is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious institutes of higher education.
While Australia itself is a much-favored country by international students for pursuing higher studies, Sydney University has its perks too. The institute is renowned for consistently ranking among the top 50 universities in the world. It is well known for its education, student experience, research, and graduate employability.
In this article, we will be looking at the admission procedure and helpful tips on getting into the University of Sydney.
Admissions Process at the University of Sydney
Going about your university admissions procedure can be a daunting task, especially with most students having to apply to multiple universities. In addition, while most institutes require similar basic documents, certain entry criteria may vary from university to university.
For all those who are interested in applying for the University of Sydney, below, we have a summarised version of their admission process at the University of Sydney along with a few tips. We hope this will make your application process a tad bit easier.
Step 1. Choose a Course
You will first look up the course list on the university website, and browse through them using the course search. Sydney University offers a comprehensive list of courses.
Use the filters to search by degree level or by specific areas that interest you. Then click on the selected course for further information such as the areas of study in the course, admissions criteria, application deadlines, and future career pathways related to the course.
Sydney University has 2 commencing intakes each year, semester 1 in February and semester 2 in July, however, some courses may only have 1 intake. You will have to look into the course details for information on the timelines of specific courses.
Step 2. Check your Eligibility
Before applying for admission into the University of Sydney, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria required by Sydney University such as English language requirements, recognized qualification for undergraduate degree, and the completion of tertiary qualifications for postgraduate degrees(details can be found on the specific course page).
*Please refer to the admission guides for more details.
You may also look at course pages for additional admissions criteria, such as assumed knowledge, a portfolio, an interview, a prerequisite, and relevant professional experience.
Step 3. Gather your Documents
To support your application, Sydney University requires that you submit several official documents, such as academic transcripts, English language results, scholarship documentation (if applicable), degree certificates (if applicable), and marriage/change of name certificates, along with any additional supplementary documents required by each course (listed on the course page).
It is also required that you send in a scanned copy of your passport for identification purposes. Also, documents in languages other than English must be accompanied by an English-translated version, accredited by an official body. In addition, individuals from the People’s Republic of China are also required to verify their academic documents by the China Higher Education Student Information and Career Center (CHESICC).
Step 4. Check your Finances
As an international student, one of the most important tasks you would be handling would be your finances. These would include the many expenses you would need to deal with, starting with course fees (available in detail on a specific course page), and additional fees and costs.
Before getting into the University of Sydney, it is recommended that you look into the possible financial support options you may qualify to receive, such as Sydney University’s scholarships to international students, and education loans offered by some countries for their citizens.
Step 5. Submit your Application
Applicants have several options when it comes to submitting applications.
Apply directly
To apply directly, you simply have to click on the ‘Apply now’ option on your course page, you will then follow the prompts to complete your application. You may watch this video for a short overview of this process. You may also contact the university’s regional experts for any personalized clarifications.
International students would be required to pay a non-refundable application processing fee of A$150.00, which would cover any applications made within 1 year.
Apply through an authorized agent
Applicants who wish to apply with the assistance of an agent may do so, as long as it is an authorised University of Sydney agent. Only agents listed on the university website will be authorized to carry out the admissions procedure.
Apply through UAC
Undergraduate students who are currently engaged in pursuing either an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma in Australia or a current Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW Higher School Certificate) in or outside Australia, are required to apply through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Individuals applying with a New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA Level 3) are also requested to either apply directly to the university or via UAC.
Step 6: Pay your Fees
Once your application process is complete and on the occasion that you get through, the next step would be settling your semester tuition fee and overseas student’s health cover (OSHC).
After making the payment, you will receive an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE), a document needed for your visa application.
Step 7. Apply for Your Student Visa
The Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) is required to apply for a student visa.
Tips to Get Into the University of Sydney
Even though the standard admissions procedure is sufficient to get you into Sydney University, given that you meet the necessary qualifications. There are several additional pieces of information regarding alternate options on how to get into the University of Sydney you may be interested in.
Tip 1. Check Application Deadline
As international students, you must apply as early as possible, so that there is enough time for visa and travel arrangements. Therefore it is recommended that you apply well ahead of time even before the completion of your current qualifying education. It is also recommended that you apply directly to the university.
Tip 2. Check International Articulation Pathways
This tip is for applicants who are very much interested in studying at Sydney University but are unsure if they would get it. In this case, the University of Sydney has several international articulation pathways made available at certain educational institutes abroad.
These official arrangements would allow applicants to increase their credit towards their Sydney degree and fast-track their studies.
Tip 3. Consider Enrolling in Preparation Programs
This is also for students determined to get into Sydney University, but are unable to do so as they lack the required grades or qualifications. Preparation programs or enabling courses provide students with an alternative pathway to getting into Sydney University.
These courses equip international students with a strong foundation in terms of academics, which would allow them to pursue university studies.
The programs include:
- The University of Sydney Foundation Program (Standard Course)
- The University of Sydney Foundation Program (Standard Intensive)
- The University of Sydney Extended Foundation Program
- University of Sydney High Achievers Preparation Program
University admission procedures do require a lot of attention and can be frustrating at times, but do understand, that it is not an impossible thing to do. While it may seem difficult to get admitted to the University of Sydney at the beginning, you will see it gets much easier with time when you have familiarized yourself with the process, and have understood what needs to be done. Therefore do not be intimidated and do your best to earn that seat!
Hopefully, this article on the admission process and tips for getting into the University of Sydney was helpful. You can also visit the Australia Scholarships Page for more articles about studying in Australia!
