More than a pathway

UNSW Indigenous Pre-programs provide you with a stepping stone to your dream degree.

The intensive programs introduce you to university life within a culturally supportive environment. Our programs prepare you for your specific degree and help you understand what to expect as a student.

You will make new and lasting connections with other students, as well as meet inspirational support staff and academics who will answer any questions you have about your studies.

The Pre-programs are delivered by Nura Gili: Centre for Indigenous Programs and UNSW faculties and schools.

Business Pre-Program Student

If you want to study in areas outside of Business, Education, Law, Medicine, Social Work, or Science and Engineering, you can apply for our Indigenous Admission Scheme.

2024 Pre-programs

Program Dates: 18 November - 6 December 2023

Where: UNSW Kensington Campus 

You can gain admission to UNSW without the need for an ATAR.**

 

*We have accommodation options for students living outside of the Sydney area. 

**We assess your readiness for a degree program through assessments completed in the Indigenous Pre-programs, designed for your specific degree. Offers to UNSW are contingent on successfully completing the Pre-program and on each student's readiness for university-level education determined by assessments and other measures.

What do you want to study?

An intensive residential* preparatory course designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students develop the skills necessary to successfully complete studies in Business. The course surveys a range of business disciplines as well as study and learning skills. You will also have the opportunity to apply your learning through case studies and site visits.

Learn more about UNSW Business

An intensive residential* preparatory course designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to develop the skills necessary to successfully complete studies in law. The program includes a simulation of the law school experience, an introduction to university life, assessment and legal thought. Program content includes an introduction to legal process, Aboriginal Legal Issues, Criminal Law, Legal Writing and Academic Skills.

Learn more about UNSW Law and Justice

An intensive residential* preparatory course, jointly managed by Nura Gili and the Faculty of Medicine, designed to provide support and training to better prepare Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for study in the Faculty of Medicine. Please note both application forms below need to be lodged as part of your application to this program. For additional info about entry to Medicine click here.

Learn more about UNSW Medicine

An intensive residential* preparatory course jointly managed by Nura Gili and the Faculties of Science and Engineering, and designed to provide support and training to better prepare Indigenous students for study in the fields of Science and Engineering.

Students will have the opportunity to have a taste of a range of courses including: Chemistry, Psychology, Biology, Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Computer Science and Engineering Design and Sustainability, all underpinned by a firm foundation in Mathematics.

Students will get a chance to explore labs*, the local marine environment* and hear from current students and alumni, all while getting familiar with the incredible resources and learning spaces Science and Engineering have to offer.

Learn more about UNSW Science 

Learn more about UNSW Engineering

How to apply

To apply for UNSW Indigenous Pre-program, you need to:

  1.  Lodge an application with the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) for the UNSW undergraduate degree program that they wish to study.   See how to apply to UAC below.
     
  2.  Complete the online UNSW Indigenous Pre-Programs application and attach all supporting documentation



Applications are currently closed

Supporting documents:

  • Confirmation of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status. See our policy here.

For recent school leavers: 

  • You will need to supply copies of your year 11 & 12 school reports; transcripts of any other studies/courses undertaken; and any other awards or achievements such as work experience, extracurricular activities etc. 

For applicants who completed school earlier than 2023: 

  • You will need to supply copies of the final school read reports and details of the course(s), if recent; a CV/resume detailing work experience and education or training undertaken since leaving school; and anything else that can support your application. 
     

Confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Descent

 

How to apply to university with UAC

How to apply for university through UAC as a Year 12 student

How to apply for university through UAC as a post-school applicant

Stories

"Culture is very important to me. I love my culture and just want to always represent that." – Shay Evans, Marra woman, Indigenous Pre-program student, and professional soccer player.

“Never underestimate what you learn in university and how you can take the education you receive back to your community.” – Rachel Roberts, graduate and Indigenous Awards recipient. 

"Those early stages of university are a big determining factor for the rest of a person’s journey.”  – Shaun Wright, Nyul Nyul descendant and current UNSW Masters student.