UNSW’s Indigenous Pre-Programs offer a holistic pre-entry university experience for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students without the need for an ATAR. Our programs are both an alternative entry pathway to UNSW and a degree-specific preparatory program, meaning you can hit the ground running on day one of your degree.
The Indigenous Pre-Programs is a three-week intensive residential program held at UNSW’s Kensington campus in Sydney. The pathway program is delivered by Nura Gili in partnership with UNSW faculties and schools in the areas of Business, Education, Law, Medicine, Social Work, or Science & Engineering. We run Indigenous Pre-Programs in the areas of Business, Education, Law, Medicine, Social Work, or Science & Engineering.
Three-week intensive residential program at our Kensington campus in Sydney.
Students attend classes and complete assessments with their chosen faculty or school. You'll meet lecturers and tutors who will give you valuable insight into your courses.
Nura Gili and UNSW covers all cost for travel, accommodation and meals during the program.
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 inclusive environment. Our programs prepare you for your specific degree and help you understand what to expect as a student at UNSW.
You'll make new and lasting connections with other students, and meet inspirational support staff and academics who will answer any questions you have about your studies.
What to know about Indigenous Pre-Programs?
We assess your readiness for a degree program through assessments and exams completed in the Indigenous Pre-Programs, designed for you specific degree. Offers to UNSW are contingent on successfully completing the Pre-Programs and on each student’s readiness for university-level education determined by assessments and other measures.
Not only do the Indigenous Pre-Programs assess your readiness for university without the need for an ATAR, they also provide preparation and support for your first year at UNSW. If you successfully complete the Pre-Programs, you may receive an offer to study at UNSW in your preferred degree. Therefore, our programs also enable you to hit the ground running when you commence as a student. You will be familiar with the campus, your faculty, and with the community at Nura Gili, who will be there to assist you to navigate your studies. There is no cost for students to take part in the Pre-Programs.
What do you want to study?
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The Pre-Business program is designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students develop the skills necessary to successfully complete studies in Business. The program surveys a range of business disciplines as well as study and learning skills. You'll also have the opportunity to apply your learning through case studies and site visits.
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The Pre-Education program is designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students develop the skills necessary to successfully complete studies in Education.
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The Pre-Law program is designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students 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 the legal process, Aboriginal Legal Issues, Criminal Law, Legal Writing and Academic Skills.
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The Pre-Medicine program is designed to provide support and training to better prepare Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for study in the Faculty of Medicine and Health.
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The Science and Engineering Indigenous Pre-Program is an alternative entry pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The three-week residential program is jointly managed by Nura Gili and the Faculties of Science and Engineering and is designed to provide support and training to better prepare students for study in the fields of Science and Engineering.
Students jumpstart their STEM journey through unique experiences that are tailored toward their interests and future goals. The program includes cultural awareness and community-building activities to help students feel comfortable as new members of the UNSW community. Students also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experiences in the STEM areas they’re most interested in, build lasting relationships with staff and students, and participate in cultural activities.
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The Pre-Social Work program is designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students develop the skills necessary to successfully complete studies in Social Work.
What you need to know
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The Indigenous Pre-Programs are held mid-November to mid-December.
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The program is offered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school leavers and non-school leavers across Australia.
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Applying for UNSW Indigenous Pre-Programs, you will need to:
- Lodge an application with the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for the UNSW undergraduate degree program that you wish to study.
- Complete the online UNSW Indigenous Pre-Programs application and attach all supporting documentation.
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Confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Identity
While Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity is unique and sacred to every person. All applicants are required to provide proof of their Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity and heritage.
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 before 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.
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Acknowledgement of Country
UNSW is located on the unceded territory of the Bidjigal/Bedegal (Kensington campus), Gadigal (City and Paddington campuses) and Ngunnawal peoples (Canberra) who are the Traditional Owners of the lands where each campus of UNSW is situated.
