For many Year 12 students, the uncertainty of university admission results can be stressful. Fortunately, the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) offers an early entry scheme that allows eligible students to secure a place before completing their final exams. This initiative is designed to provide greater certainty and reduce pressure, while also promoting access for students from diverse backgrounds.
What Is UNSW Early Entry?
UNSW’s early entry program is primarily delivered through the Gateway Admission Pathway and the Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme. These pathways enable students to receive early conditional offers to study at UNSW, often with a reduced ATAR requirement compared to the standard entry criteria.
- Gateway Admission Pathway: This scheme supports Year 12 students who attend designated Gateway schools or live in low-socioeconomic areas (as determined by SEIFA indexes). Eligible students can apply for early conditional offers with a lowered ATAR threshold. If they meet or exceed the adjusted ATAR after their HSC results are released, they receive a firm offer to their chosen degree. This pathway also prioritises equity scholarships and provides tailored academic and transition support.
- Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme: Targeted at students applying for degrees in Arts, Design & Architecture, and Engineering, this pathway allows applicants to submit a portfolio showcasing their passion and talent. Successful applicants receive early conditional offers with adjusted ATAR requirements, giving them a head start in securing their place.
How Does the Early Offer Process Work?
- Application: Eligible Year 12 students submit their applications through the UNSW Gateway portal or portfolio process before final exams.
- Assessment: UNSW considers academic records (such as Year 11 results), personal statements, and portfolios where applicable.
- Early Conditional Offer: Students receive an offer with a reduced ATAR requirement, conditional on completing the HSC.
- Final Results: After HSC results are released, students who meet or exceed the adjusted ATAR receive a firm offer.
- Acceptance: Students are encouraged to accept early offers promptly, as places are limited and popular degrees may fill quickly.
Who Can Apply?
- Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens completing Year 12 in Australia.
- Students attending Gateway schools or living in eligible low-socioeconomic areas.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
- Those applying for specific degrees that accept portfolio submissions.
International students are not eligible for the Gateway pathway but can explore other entry options through UNSW College and international admission pathways.
Benefits of UNSW Early Entry
- Reduced Stress: Secure your university place before final exams, alleviating uncertainty.
- Lower ATAR Threshold: Offers made with adjusted ATAR requirements make entry more accessible.
- Support Services: Early entry students gain access to scholarships, academic support, and transition programs.
- Priority Access: Early acceptance helps avoid missing out on spots in high-demand courses.
What If You Don’t Meet the Adjusted ATAR?
UNSW provides alternative pathways such as diploma programs through UNSW College, allowing students to start university-level study and transition into their preferred degree after successful completion.
UNSW’s early entry schemes, including the Gateway Admission Pathway and Portfolio Entry, offer Year 12 students a valuable opportunity to secure a university place ahead of their final exams. By considering more than just ATAR scores, these pathways promote equity and reduce stress, helping students from diverse backgrounds access world-class education at UNSW Sydney. If you’re eligible, applying early could be your key to a smoother transition into university life.