Unsw International Scientia Coursework Scholarship 2027 | Study in Australia — University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
⚠️ This scholarship's deadline has passed and it's no longer accepting applications.
UNSW Sydney ranks among Australia’s most selective research universities, and its International Scientia Coursework Scholarship is the flagship award the university uses to attract top international applicants into its undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A single scholarship application covers every eligible award the student could qualify for, which simplifies what would otherwise be a confusing multi-form process.
About the Scholarship
The International Scientia Coursework Scholarship recognizes academically outstanding international students commencing a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree at UNSW. Depending on the level of academic achievement, recipients are offered either full tuition fee coverage for the duration of their degree or an annual payment of AUD 20,000 toward their study costs.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage for the length of the degree for top-tier recipients
- Alternatively, an annual award of AUD 20,000 for high-achieving recipients who do not receive the full award
- Recognition as a Scientia Scholar, including access to university leadership and networking programs
- No separate scholarship application required beyond the single combined scholarship form
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an international student, not an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Must be commencing a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree at UNSW in Term 1, 2027
- UNSW Online programs and UNSW Canberra programs are excluded from eligibility
- Must demonstrate a strong academic record in previous studies relevant to the chosen course
- Must hold, or be close to receiving, an offer of admission to an eligible UNSW program
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship applies broadly across UNSW’s undergraduate and postgraduate coursework offerings, including engineering, business, science, law, built environment, art and design, and computing, provided the specific program is not excluded under UNSW Online or UNSW Canberra.
Required Documents
- Completed UNSW program application (PUCA1029 combined scholarship application)
- Academic transcripts from secondary school or previous tertiary study
- English-language proficiency test results, if required for admission
- Personal statement outlining academic achievements and goals
- Passport or identification document confirming citizenship
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Apply for an eligible UNSW undergraduate or postgraduate coursework program for Term 1, 2027
- Complete the single combined scholarship application form alongside, or shortly after, your program application
- Upload academic transcripts and English test results if these were not already submitted with your admission application
- Submit before the scholarship application deadline of 30 October 2026
- Wait for your program offer and scholarship outcome, which are usually communicated around the same time
- Accept your offer and scholarship within the stated response period to secure your place
Selection Process
UNSW assesses eligible applicants primarily on academic merit shown in prior transcripts, with the strongest applicants offered full tuition coverage and the next tier offered the AUD 20,000 annual award. Because the process uses one combined form, students do not need to guess which specific award to target; the university allocates the appropriate level automatically.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Submit your program application as early as possible rather than close to the October deadline, since earlier applicants get more time for document verification
- Make sure transcripts are translated and certified if they are not originally in English
- A strong personal statement that connects past achievements to a clear reason for choosing the specific UNSW program can help in borderline cases
- Applicants also exploring research-based funding sometimes compare this against the University of Sydney Research Training Program Scholarship if they are considering postgraduate research instead of coursework
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this scholarship available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students?
Yes, it covers both undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees, though UNSW Online and UNSW Canberra programs are excluded.
Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
A single combined scholarship application covers this and other eligible UNSW international scholarships, so there is no need for multiple separate forms.
What is the difference between the full tuition award and the AUD 20,000 award?
The full tuition award covers the entire cost of the degree, while the AUD 20,000 award is a fixed annual payment toward tuition, with the level determined by academic merit.
Can I apply if I already hold an offer from UNSW?
Yes, students who already hold an offer can still submit the scholarship application before the deadline, provided the course starts in Term 1, 2027.
Is there an interview as part of the selection process?
Most applicants are assessed on documentation alone, though UNSW may request additional information in specific cases.
Does this scholarship cover living costs?
No, it is a tuition-focused award and does not include a living stipend, so students should budget separately for accommodation and daily expenses.
What happens if I miss the 30 October 2026 deadline?
Late applications are generally not considered for this intake, so students should apply well ahead of the deadline to avoid missing the scholarship cycle.
Is the scholarship renewable each year of study?
Yes, both the full tuition and AUD 20,000 awards apply for the standard duration of the degree, provided the student remains in good academic standing.