UNSW Elite Athlete Program

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UNSW is endorsed by Sport Australia as a member of the Elite Athlete Education Network (EAEN). We offer flexible entry and study options for identified elite athletes, enabling them to balance sport and study. This paves the way for a smooth transition to life after sport, ensuring their experience on campus is one that is rewarding and flexible. Elite athletes acquire the right skills and qualifications needed to follow their passions and interests outside of sport.

The Elite Athlete University Network provides a network of AIS endorsed providers in the areas of higher education where athletes can learn and equip themselves with qualifications, knowledge and skills for future careers beyond their sport.

The majority of elite athletes within Australia will be either identified as categorised by their National Sporting Organisation (NSO) and appear on a current categorised list and/or will be on scholarship within the National Institute Network across Australian states.

For athletes and coaches to access the support identified within the EAEN, they must be identified and recognised, or be a member of one of the following organisations as an 'elite athlete' or 'elite coach.'

Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), opens in a new window

State and Territory Institutes/Academies of Sport

AFL Players’ Association, opens in a new window

Australian Cricketers’ Association, opens in a new window

Rugby Union Players’ Association, opens in a new window

Rugby League Professionals’ Association, opens in a new window

Australian Professional Footballers’ Association, opens in a new window

Australian Basketballers Association, opens in a new window

National squad members from Sport Australia funded sports.

Senior/head coaches from State and Territory Institutes/Academies of Sport, national teams from Sport Australia funded sports or participating professional sports.

If an athlete falls outside of these organisations they may submit an application for consideration by UNSW.
The Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL) Program supports students with a flexible entry process that considers both academic and elite achievements and recognises these by awarding adjustment factors (more commonly known as bonus points).

Students can be considered for EAPL points for undergraduate study at UNSW. The EAPL Program awards up to five points to high school leavers who have excelled in areas of sport, academia, leadership, and/or music at an elite level. Activities and/or commitments must have been undertaken in years 11 and/or 12.

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The Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders Support Program provides eligible current students with the necessary support to successfully integrate their academic life with their external pursuits in the form of enrolment flexibility, cross-institutional study options and leave of absence for travel commitments.

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UNSW Elite Athlete Program

Apply for the Elite Athlete Program