Australia Study Abroad at the University of New South Wales
About University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia
- Required GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale)
- Application deadlines: November 15 for semester 1 (Feb-June)
November 15 for calendar year (Feb-Nov)
March 15 for semester 2 (July-Nov)
March 15 for academic year (July-June)
- Program advisor: Chris Haynes
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Program Snapshot
We're so excited that you're considering IFSA-Butler's program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) for your semester or year abroad. UNSW is ranked as one of the best universites in Australia and has the longest running study abroad program in the country. We're sure you're going to love studying there!
There are a few specific forms for this program that you will need to complete along with your IFSA-Butler application. You can find the forms under the Forms tab.
What UNSW has to offer
- Ranks as one of the best universities in Australia
- A relaxed, friendly atmosphere
- Known as "Australia's most international campus"
- High faculty-to-student ratio ensures personal attention
- An internship program that combines a workplace assignment with a substantial research project
- World-class performing arts facilities
- An active students union that sponsors events and more than 50 student clubs and societies
- On-campus bookstore, audiovisual services, food concessions, cafes, banks and shops
- Sport and recreation center with pool, gymnasium, squash and tennis courts and a variety of activities from aerobics to weight lifting
Housing
- Housing in university-affiliated residential colleges with excellent facilities and services, or in shared furnished houses or flats within a 30-minute commute of campus
- Students in residential colleges have a mandatory meal plan
- Students in shared furnished houses or flats purchase meals or prepare their own food in shared kitchens
Academics
- A strong academic program across a wide range of disciplines
- Students take four to six courses per semester
We look forward to working with you!
Academics
CoursesWhere can I find a list of courses that the university offers?
- Open the UNSW online course catalog.
- Be sure to verify that the classes you have selected are offered in the appropriate semester.
What courses am I eligible to take?
As an IFSA-Butler student, you are entitled to enroll in undergraduate courses for which you are qualified and in which space is available. Course descriptions in the online course catalog (see above) include prerequisites you must fulfill in order to enroll in each course.
For each course that you list on your preference form, be sure to check the following:
- When determining which courses to take, please bear in mind that the Australian academic system is an intensive, three-year program.
- First-year (1000-level) courses are appropriate for departments in which you have little or no prior experience.
- Second-year (2000-level) courses will be equivalent to advanced sophomore or junior-level U.S. courses.
- Third-year (3000-level) courses will be equivalent to senior-level U.S. courses.
- Fourth-year (4000-level) courses and higher are part of a postgraduate degree (Masters or Ph.D.). You are not eligible to take these courses as an undergraduate study abroad student.
- Students taking classes in biomedical engineering (BIOM) may take classes in the 9000 level with advisor approval.
- Classes in the General Subjects faculties (GENS, GENX, etc.) are considered undergraduate level regardless of the course number.
- Study abroad students may not take classes in the Schools of Medicine or Law.
- Criminology (CRIM) classes are restricted to Criminology majors.
- Media (MDIA) classes are restricted to students majoring in Communications or Journalism.
What if I need to take a required course?
Please be aware that IFSA-Butler cannot guarantee that your host university will offer a particular course, or that you will be allowed to take that particular course. However, if you need to take a required course, you may indicate that it is required on your course preference form. Your IFSA-Butler program advisor will communicate your needs to your host university.
Course Restrictions
Are there any course or departmental restrictions?
- Fourth-year (4000-level) courses and higher are part of a postgraduate degree (Masters or Ph.D.). You are not eligible to take these courses as an undergraduate study abroad student.
- Study abroad students may not take classes in the Schools of Medicine or Law.
- Criminology (CRIM) classes are restricted to Criminology majors.
- Media (MDIA) classes are restricted to students majoring in Communications or Journalism.
Credits
How many courses am I able to take, and how do I determine U.S. semester credit hours?
IFSA-Butler requires students to enroll in a full course load at the host institution. The number of courses you take depends on the credit value of the courses you select. For information on the credit weight, please consult the information below.
3 UNSW points = 2 U.S. semester credit hours
6 UNSW points = 4 U.S. semester credit hours
12 UNSW points = 8 U.S. semester credit hours
Registration
What are the registration conditions?
You must take a full University of New South Wales course load as determined by IFSA-Butler. Credit will be awarded on a Butler University transcript based on a typical U.S. full course load. All courses are graded on an A-F scale, and there is no provision for pass/fail or auditing courses unless pass/fail is the only method of assessment for the course. You are not allowed to register for online, distance education or hybrid courses.
You should also be aware that you may be charged additional fees by your home institution or host university to take or process additional credits. Taking less than a full course load may jeopardize your student status and result in personal academic repercussions and/or loss of financial aid.
The course preference form is not a registration form; it is a guideline to let your host university know which courses you are interested in taking abroad. You should discuss your course selections with your academic advisor at your home institution and have several backup choices in mind. Neither you nor the university is bound by your selections, and you will not officially register for courses until you arrive on campus.
ExamsWhat do I need to know about exams?Because of the differences in the academic systems, you will not know your exam schedule until after you arrive at your host university. Please refer to your program calendar to review the exam period for your host university. Your host university's policies do not permit you to reschedule any exams, request alternate assessments or arrange to have your exams proctored in the United States. If this occurs, IFSA-Butler cannot assist you in conducting a grade query or academic follow-up for the course in which you made this arrangement. You will need to complete and submit all academic work prior to departing the program.
Transcripts
How will my home university know what my classes were and what grades I received?
After you have returned to the U.S., your home university will receive a Butler University transcript with the credit you earned at the University of New South Wales. The Butler University transcript will report the equivalent U.S. semester credit hours and letter grades. We also will send an official transcript to your permanent address.
Housing
Housing OptionsWhat are my housing options?The following housing options are available during your semester or year abroad. On-Campus HousingStudents placed in on-campus housing will receive supplemental housing bills of approximately $800-1,500 per semester. This bill will be sent to the student's permanent home address about six to eight weeks after the beginning of the semester.
- UNSW Village - self-catered; supplemental fee approximately $525
Students live in apartments with six single bedrooms, shared bathrooms and full kitchens. Both international and Australian students live in the housing, which includes a video game and TV room, a café and an on-site pub. Full-time staff at the Village offer social activities and 24-hour security. A convenience store is located within walking distance. If you're interested in speaking with previous IFSA-Butler students who have lived in the Village, please contact your program advisor.
- Kensington Colleges - catered; supplemental fee approximately $1,500
The Kensington Colleges consist of Philip Basser, Baxter and Goldstein Colleges, and are popular with Australian students. These colleges are located in close proximity to each other and share a dining area. All rooms are dormitory-style single rooms with shared bathrooms.
Please note that Kensington is currently undergoing renovation, so spaces are very limited.
- University Terraces - University Terraces consist of 371 self-catered apartments and are UNSW's newest housing. Students will have a roommate and share a bedroom in a two-bedroom apartment with other study abroad students. Each apartment is furnished with a bathroom and basic kitchen. The apartments are modern and stylish and the building offers study rooms with free wi-fi and lounges on each floor. There is a large communal kitchen on the ground floor. This housing will have social activities and onsite RAs. Students also have access to a variety of retail shops.
- Shalom College - catered; supplemental fee approximately $2,350
Although Shalom's dining hall serves fully kosher meals, the majority of the 130 residents are not Jewish. All rooms are single with a shared or private bathroom, telephone, Internet connection and sink. Early application is highly recommended.
For all Students
For all housing options, students are responsible for their own linen, fans, heaters, cleaning and cleaning supplies. Students living at the Village are responsible for cooking equipment and dishes.
Meals
Students placed in residential colleges will have mandatory meal plans (and a supplemental housing fee).
Housing FAQs
Is my housing included in the program fee?
Yes. Your program fee includes accommodation at the university while classes are in session. You will be responsible for any commuting costs you may incur. Australian university housing requires students to move out during breaks between semesters. If you are studying abroad for a year and wish to remain in residence during the vacation period(s), you must notify the university housing office upon arrival to make necessary arrangements. Staying in residence during these breaks may incur additional costs not covered by the IFSA-Butler program fee.
When will I receive my housing assignment?
You will most likely receive your housing assignment one to two weeks before your departure. However, in some cases you may not receive your housing assignment until you arrive in Australia for orientation. Your program advisor will notify you of your housing assignment via e-mail when it is released by the university.
Please keep in mind that while IFSA-Butler guarantees housing, we cannot guarantee your preferences.
Do I have to pay a housing deposit?
Yes. IFSA-Butler requires a refundable housing deposit of $300 before going abroad. We will return this deposit to you after March 1 for fall programs or September 1 for spring and year programs, less any fines, damages or outstanding debts in your name.
Can I arrange my own housing?
Yes. IFSA-Butler recognizes that some students require independent housing for their time abroad. If you choose not to take advantage of our guaranteed housing, you may sign up for independent housing on the housing preference form. Once you've made this choice, we will not provide housing for you or bill you for the accommodation fee.
Please be advised that housing costs can be high abroad, and many times students living independently end up spending more money than students living in IFSA-Butler arranged housing. If you are hoping to save money by arranging housing on your own, please research your options early so you can compare costs. You must notify us of your intention to live in independent housing by December 1 for spring and semester 1 programs or by May 1 for fall and semester 2 programs. We are not able to accommodate independent housing requests after these dates.
Location Info
Living and Studying Abroad in Sydney, Australia
About Sydney
Population: 4.5 million
Location: State of New South Wales, in southeast Australia
City features
- Known as the "World's Friendliest City"
- Renowned for its multicultural flavor
- At its heart is a spectacular harbor, home to the famous sails of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Distinct neighborhoods with a huge range of lifestyles and cultures, linked by excellent public transportation
- Darling Harbour is a glittering entertainment district and a hub of endless fun
- Nearby are the historic Rocks, Sydney' oldest preserved colonial district transformed into a vibrant area of pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops
Do more!
- Enjoy surfing, swimming and sunning at the beaches on the east coast of the city
- Visit the Blue Mountains in the west
- Sample wines in the Hunter Valley to the north of Sydney, where some of Australia's best wines are made
Links
City of Sydney
Travel South: A Visitor's Guide to South Coast New South Wales
City Search Sydney
Lonely Planet Sydney
Sydney Morning Herald
Dates & Fees
Program Dates
 Please wait - Loading Dates... Your program end date may change due to circumstances beyond IFSA-Butler's control. Upon arrival at your host university, be sure to verify your exam schedule and program end date. We also strongly recommend that you investigate fees and penalties associated with your airline tickets in case you need to make date or route changes.
All program support services end on the “Program Ends” date.
Exams must be taken where and when scheduled. Under no circumstances may students request that an exam time be changed. In Australia exams are taken under formal examination conditions, and changes cannot be made for individuals.
Program Fees
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What's included in our Australia program fees
Expense calculator
Calendar Year and Semester 1 Payments Due: December 15
Academic Year and Semester 2 Payments Due: May 15
Program Fee Bills
IFSA-Butler will send a single bill for the entire program fee, which includes tuition, services and housing. Students who opt for independent housing will not be charged the housing component of the program fee.
Housing
The housing component of our program fee is based on the average cost of local student self-catering accommodation, usually a shared room in a regular dormitory, apartment or house without any extra features.
† Housing Deposit
This program requires a housing deposit of $300. This payment is in addition to the program fee but is due on the same date. The deposit is held separately from the program fee and should be paid separately. The deposit is refunded to the student after the program, less any damages, fines or outstanding debts in the student’s name.
Personal Cost Estimates
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Expense calculator
These figures are designed to assist students with financial planning but are only estimates based on past students’ experiences at the current exchange rate. They do not include any entertainment or vacation travel costs.
The above numbers are general estimates of expenses during a program abroad. We recommend taking into account your current spending habits, the cost of living in your host country and the current exchange rate. Your IFSA-Butler program advisor can be helpful as you attempt to work on a personal budget for your experience abroad.
Personal Miscellaneous: Covers general expenses of college life, including course supplies, photocopying, toiletries, snacks, personal care, etc.
Commuting: Estimates are for transportation between housing and university. Transportation for personal or recreational purposes is not included in the above estimates.
All costs are in U.S. dollars.
Forms
To apply to the University of New South Wales program, use our easy online application.
Applicants to the University of New South Wales program must complete additional forms as part of the application process:
We must receive these forms before we can send your application to the University of New South Wales for an admissions decision. They can be sent to IFSA-Butler via email, fax or regular mail. Please submit these forms with the remainder of your program application.
If you have already started an application to the University of New South Wales program, you can check the status of your application using the student portal.
Meet Your IFSA-Butler Team
IFSA-Butler has a dedicated team of staff who are here to help students prepare for their program in Australia:
 Program Advisor Chris Haynes prepares students to study abroad by assisting them with the application process and answering any pre-departure questions. Chris can be reached at the email link provided above or at 800-858-0229 extn: 4251. Chris graduated from Butler University where he earned his undergraduate degree, studied abroad and even played four years of collegiate football for the Butler Bulldog football team. While abroad he taught English as a second language and traveled extensively throughout Europe. He currently advises students planning on studying abroad in England, New Zealand and Australia.
 Student Accounts Coordinator Becki Niccum assists with the financial side of study abroad and processes payments and invoices. Becki can be reached at the email link above or at 317-940-3077.
 Student & Parent Services Manager Donnetta Spears is available to both students and parents for travel questions and information. Donnetta has worked with IFSA-Butler for since 2000, and she has traveled through parts of Europe, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand. As the mother of 4 college students (including one who studied abroad on an IFSA-Butler program), she has a deep understanding of the ins-and-outs of study abroad from a parent perspective. Donnetta can be reached at the email link above or at 317-940-4252.
 Once abroad, our students are in the capable hands of our on-site office, including our student services coordinator Joanna Subotic. Click here to read more about Joanna.
 Upon return from your study abroad program, Academic Affairs Coordinator Paige Ward processes your Butler University transcript and assists with any academic record queries. Paige graduated from Butler University, and she studied abroad for a semester in Paris, Belfast, London and the English Lake District. Studying abroad for Paige was an eye-opening and knowledge-gaining experience, and she is excited to work with students who are looking for the same. Paige can be reached at the email link above or at 800-858-0229 ext. 4254.
Internships
The University of New South Wales offers internships in several areas. A staff member in the agency or organization where you are placed will supervise your performance in the internship and act as your field supervisor. An academic supervisor will monitor your progress in your placement and guide you on your academic project.
Your academic supervisor, field placement supervisor and another UNSW staff member will assess your internship for the final grade. The academic project associated with your internship carries most of the weight in determining your final letter grade. An internship replaces one regular class at UNSW and is worth 4 U.S. credit hours. Interns work at least 180 hours for the length of the internship.
Although placements vary each semester, internships are usually available in:
- Marketing, including the Taronga Zoo
- Social science and policy, including welfare organizations, unions and policy units
- Media studies, including advertising, public relations, TV and print media
- Business, including banking and finance
- Biological and environmental sciences
To apply for an internship at UNSW, you must complete an application by December 1 for semester 1 students and May 1 for semester 2 students. Contact your program advisor for the application. Placements are offered after an interview process at UNSW before the semester begins. UNSW cannot guarantee internship placements before the interview process is complete.
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