Transition Program
The Transition Program is an accelerated university preparation program which provides a pathway for students who narrowly missed the academic or English language entry requirements.
Academic support
Language support
Assisted learning
Who is this program for?
The Transition Program is a pre-university program designed for students who have narrowly missed out on direct entry to university. It is recommended for those with strong English language proficiency, excellent academic results and a mature and independent approach to studies.
Our teaching style follows university practice with lectures and tutorials. Most tutorial classes have about 18 students, so you will receive the attention you need to succeed. You will also participate in class activities which help develop your presentation skills and give you greater confidence in speaking English.
Program is available for Commerce, Commerce Actuarial, Life Science, Physical Science and Design.
To help you choose the best stream and subjects for your Foundation program, and match them to your UNSW degree - please visit our UNSW Degree Choices page.
The pathway
See where the Transition
Program fits in your journey to a
UNSW degree
Dates
In 2021, the UNSW Transition Program will be powered by OpenLearning and offered online only. This unique pathway program will help you develop the independent skills you need to succeed at university, in just four months. You’ll be learning from home and in your time zone, with the support of dedicated teachers and coaches, plus a new community of friends. OpenLearning and UNSW Global have worked together to create a platform where you can make friends, connect and share ideas to learn more together for a life-changing learning experience.
For more information about our online program including intake dates and fees, see UNSW Transition Program Online. We will resume face to face teaching in 2022.
Entry requirements
There are two easy ways to check your entry requirements. View your personalised entry requirements with our calculator or view the full table.
If successful, your scholarship offer will be outlined in your Letter of Offer. The value awarded will be dependent on your level of academic achievement from your previous studies.
Where you'll be studying
You will study in the beautiful UNSW Sydney campus in Kensington and enjoy access to world-class libraries, labs and classrooms as well as sporting and social clubs.
Progression to UNSW
When you successfully complete your pathway program, and meet the grade point average (GPA) and English language requirements, you will gain entry to your chosen UNSW bachelors degree. If you are studying Foundation Studies and do not meet the GPA required to enter first year, you may have the option to complete a Diploma Program before progressing to second year at UNSW.














































































Academic Support, language support and assisted learning
We know that studying abroad is exciting and rewarding but can also be daunting. Foundation Studies have been designed to prepare you for the challenge, give you a clear idea of what to expect and make your transition a smooth one.
Foundation Studies are also packed with extra-curricular benefits that allow you to pursue your interests in leadership, sports, culture, volunteering, socialising and much more.
A well-rounded student experience is one that balances academic growth with a thriving social life. In addition to ongoing academic support, you’ll find many opportunities to get fully involved in university life. This will make your experience at UNSW a steppingstone to both academic and life success.
Supported learning
Foundation Studies provides a supportive learning experience for students through:
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Ongoing assessment:Opportunities to demonstrate your learning in a variety of low-stress ways, not just through exams.
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Personalised learning:Receive regular feedback about your progress and receive great tips to improve.
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Skills development:Learn practical skills such as study methods, assessment planning, time management and, importantly, communicating in English at school and at home.
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Cultural proficiency:Learn about Australian culture and education.
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Digital advice:Learn about how to navigate around the appropriate digital tools and resources and how best to use them with your in-class work and out-of-class study sessions.
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Additional support networks:Access to peer support, mentoring and study clubs.
Getting involved
Foundation Studies creates inclusive ways for students to enrich their experience through:
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Leadership opportunities:Become a class representative.
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Volunteering opportunities:Join the UNSW Global Volunteer group.
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Activities, events and social opportunities:Attend a variety of enjoyable events and activities.
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Touring Sydney:Meet your new classmates.
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Playing sports:Join free basketball and badminton sessions.
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Additional support networks:Participate in Peer support.
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ARC:Join ARC as a member or a leader.
Important Information
- Some UNSW degree programs only offer term 1 entries. Click here for details of your intended degree program.
- Please note that Commonwealth financial support is not available for Non-Award programs including Global’s Foundation programs and all language courses
- For international students only. It is recommended that Australian citizens and Permanent Residents undertake the August Transition Program so that they can receive a university offer via UAC.
- UNSW Transition Program is not a foundation program in accordance with National Standards for Foundation Programs