English language requirements
Helping you understand language requirements.
If English isn’t your first language, you may be required to provide evidence that your English language ability meets our requirements.
You may need to submit results from an acceptable English language test taken in the last two years prior to starting at UNSW.
Are you a study abroad or exchange student?
COVID-19 alternative arrangements
In response to COVID-19, which led to widespread disruption of English language testing, UNSW will accept English Language Test scores and prior studies in English (including High School) completed no more than three years before your intended start date. This will be accepted for 2022 intakes.
Here are some ways you can achieve the language requirements:
-
UNSW accepts English language test scores to meet our English language requirements provided
- You completed the test no more than two years before your intended start date, the English test must be dated on or after the 1st of January (two years prior) for Term 1 commencement, 1st of May for Term 2 commencement or the 1st of August (two years prior) for Term 3 commencement and
- You achieved the minimum scores for your desired program.
Lists of test we accept:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) - Academic version, IELTS Indicator and IELTS UKVI only
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based) including TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition
- TOEFL PBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Paper based test)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic)
- C1 Advanced Cambridge (formerly known as CAE - Cambridge Advanced English)
- C2 Proficiency Cambridge (formerly known CPE - Cambridge Proficiency English)
- ANU Access Program
Check below to see if your results meet our English language requirements.
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Note: When applying for a cross-faculty double degree, the higher English requirements apply.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: 7 overall (min 6.5 in writing & reading, 7.5 in speaking & listening)
6.5 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): 7.5 overall (min 7.0 in writing & reading, 8.0 in speaking & listening)
7.0 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest)
Business 7.0 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest) 7.0 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest) 7.0 overall (min 7.0 in writing, 6.5 in other subtests) Engineering 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) Law & Justice 7.0 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
7.0 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest)
7.0 overall (min 7.0 in writing, 6.5 in other subtests)
Medicine & Health 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
The following programs require 7.0 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management:7.0 overall (min 6.0 in each subtest)
6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
Science 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: 7.0 overall (min 7.0 in each subtest)
6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) UNSW Canberra 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) -
Note: TOEFL MyBest Score is not accepted. When applying for a cross-faculty double degree, the higher English requirements apply.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: 94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, 27 in listening, 24 in speaking)
90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): 102 overall (min. 27 in writing, 24 in reading, 28 in listening, 26 in speaking)
94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking)
Business 94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking) 94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking) 96 overall (min. 27 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking) Engineering 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) Law & Justice 94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking) 96 overall (min. 27 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking) Medicine & Health 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
Exceptions: The following programs require 94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: 94 overall (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking)
90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) Science 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: 94 overall (min. 27 in writing, 24 in reading and listening, 23 in speaking)
90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) UNSW Canberra 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) -
Note: TOEFL MyBest Score is not accepted. When applying for a cross-faculty double degree, the higher English requirements apply.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: 589 overall (min. 6.0 in TWE)
577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): 610 overall (min. 6.0 in TWE)
589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Business 589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 589 overall (min. 5.5 in TWE) Engineering 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) Law & Justice 589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 589 overall (min. 5.5 in TWE) Medicine & Health 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Exceptions: The following programs require 589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: 589 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) Science 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: Not accepted
577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)
UNSW Canberra 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) -
Note: When applying for a cross faculty double degree, the higher English requirements applies.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: 65 overall (min. 58 in writing and reading, 73 in listening and speaking)
64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): 73 overall (min. 65 in writing and reading, 79 in listening and speaking)
65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Business 65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 65 overall (min. 58 in each subtest) Engineering 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) Law & Justice 65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 65 overall (min. 58 in each subtest) Medicine & Health 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Exceptions: The following programs require 65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: 65 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) Science 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: 65 overall (min. 65 in each subtest)
64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) UNSW Canberra 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) 64 overall (min. 54 in each subtest) -
Note: When applying for a cross faculty double degree, the higher English requirements applies.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: 185 overall (176 in writing and reading, 191 in speaking and listening)
176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): 191 overall (min. 185 in writing and reading, 200 in speaking and listening)
185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Business 185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 185 overall (min. 176 in each subtest) Engineering 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) Law & Justice 185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 185 overall (min. 176 in each subtest) Medicine & Health 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Exceptions: The following programs require 185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: 185 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) Science 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: Not accepted
176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) UNSW Canberra 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) 176 overall (min. 169 in each subtest) -
Note: When applying for a cross faculty double degree, the higher English requirements applies.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: 185 overall (min. 180 in writing and reading, 191 in speaking and listening)
180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): 191 overall (min. 185 in writing and reading, 200 in speaking and listening)
185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Business 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) Engineering 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) Law & Justice 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) Medicine & Health 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Exceptions: The following programs require 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: 185 overall (min. 180 in each subtest
180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) Science 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest)
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: Not accepted
180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) UNSW Canberra 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) 180 overall (min. 180 in each subtest) -
Note: When applying for a cross faculty double degree, the higher English requirements applies.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: Not accepted
Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): Not accepted
Not accepted
Business Not accepted Not accepted Not accepted Engineering Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Law & Justice Not accepted
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
Not accepted Not accepted Medicine & Health Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
Exceptions: not accepted for the following programs
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: Not accepted
Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Science Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
Exceptions:
- Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: Not accepted
Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall UNSW Canberra Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall Successful completion with a minimum of 70% overall
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If you have received a Conditional Offer from UNSW Sydney, you can meet our English language requirements by taking UNSW Global’s University English Entry Course (UEEC) and achieving the minimum scores as outlined below by course. However, if you wish to apply for a cross-faculty double degree, there will be higher English language requirements to meet.
UNSW Global offers university pathway programs that provide a seamless transition to UNSW Sydney so you can achieve your academic and career goals. They will provide you with the academic and English language foundations for success. Contact UNSW Global to find out more.
Faculty Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework Postgraduate research Arts, Design & Architecture Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Education: Not accepted
Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Exceptions:
- Master of Teaching (Primary & Secondary): Not accepted
Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Business Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of B- in the writing component Engineering Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Law & Justice Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Exceptions:
- Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice: Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of B- in the writing component Medicine & Health Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Exceptions: The following programs require successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Exceptions:
- Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management: Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of B and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Science Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component
Exceptions:
- Graduate Diploma in Psychology, Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic & Organisational) including combined PhD/Master: Not accepted
Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component UNSW Canberra Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component -
UNSW accepts prior study results to meet our English language requirements on certain conditions.
UNSW accepts prior studies completed in English to meet our English language requirements depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background.
English-speaking background:
- Citizens of English-speaking countries, or
- Permanent Residents of English-speaking countries, or
- Minimum of ten years in an English-speaking country and completed secondary or tertiary education in an English-speaking country.
-
Senior Secondary qualifications from a recognised English-speaking country will meet our English language requirements if they were:
- taught and examined in English
- attempted no more than two years before your intended start date if you are from a non-English speaking background.
-
UNSW recognises some academic qualifications completed in non-English speaking countries.
Qualifications from Germany, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Switzerland will meet our English language requirements provided they were:
- completed no more than two years before your intended start date, and
- meet the minimum scores for your desired course.
Check below to see if your qualification is eligible for your desired course.
Qualification Minimum Requirement German Abitur Grade 12 in English
All Business programs: Grade 13 in EnglishNot accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Level 4 in English Language or Literature in English
The following programs require 5 in English Language or Literature in English:
- Business
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
All India Senior School Certificate - [CBSE] Grade of C1 in English Core
All Business programs: Grade of B2 in English Core
Not accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) not undertaken in English
English language requirement is met if English is the main language of instruction.
Grade 4 in IB English A at Higher Level or Grade 5 in IB English A at Standard Level or Grade 7 in IB English B at Higher Level
The following programs require Grade 5 in IB English A at Higher Level or Grade 6 in IB English A at Standard Level:
- Business
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Indian School Certificate - [ICSE] 70% in English
All Business programs: 80% in English
Not accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) C pass in 920 English
The following programs require A in Literature (920):
- Business
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Swiss Matura A grade of 5 (good) or better in English
Business programs: A grade of 6 (very good) or better in English
Not accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Qualifications from Denmark, Sweden or Norway will meet our English language requirements provided they were:
- completed within four years before your intended start date , and
- meet the minimum scores for your desired course.
Check below to see if your qualification is eligible for your desired course.
Qualification Minimum Requirement Denmark - Danish Studentereksamen or Higher Preparatory Examination Grade 7 in English in the final year (English B or English A)
All Business programs: Very good or grade 10 in English
Not accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Norway - Norwegian Certificate of Upper Secondary Education Grade 4 in the First Year of Upper Secondary English (if this is the only completed English subject); or average Grade 4 in all completed Upper Secondary English subjects
Not accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Sweden - Swedish Secondary School Leaving Certificate Grade D in English in the final year (English 6/English Course B)
All Business programs: Very Good (VG) or B in EnglishNot accepted for the following programs:
- Education
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
-
Check to see if your qualification meets our minimum entry scores for your desired course.
Qualification Minimum Requirement UNSW Foundation Studies C+ in Academic English
Education programs require B+
The following programs require B:
- Business
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Foundation Program from an Australian Group of Eight (Go8) University
- Monash University
- The Australian National University
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Sydney
- The University of Western Australia
Grade C+ or 70% in English
- ANU Foundation students need to complete Advanced Academic English
- UMELB Foundations students need to complete English for Academic Purposes
Education programs require B+ or 85%
The following programs require B or 80%:
- Business
- Law (except Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree programs
- Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
- Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Australian TAFE / Private Provider Studies Completed AQF Diploma or completed AQF Advanced Diploma
Not accepted for the following programs:
- All Bachelor of Education programs
- Master of Teaching (Primary and Secondary) programs
- Master of Psychology (Clinical and Forensic) including combined PhD/Master programs
-
UNSW accepts completed or incomplete post-secondary or tertiary qualifications* completed in English to meet our English language requirements depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background.
English-speaking background:
- Citizens of English-speaking countries, or
- Permanent Residents of English-speaking countries, or
- Minimum of ten years in an English-speaking country and completed secondary or tertiary education in an English-speaking country.
Note:
- Bachelor of Education programs accept at least one-year studies at AQF Bachelor or higher levels and Master of Teaching programs accept completed AQF Bachelor or higher levels for meeting the English requirements. Please note you must comply with the NESA English Language Proficiency Requirements and provide the necessary evidence when you apply for provisional and conditional accreditation.
- For Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic and Organisational) including combined PhD/Master please refer to AHPRA website for pathways that you can use to demonstrate your English competence.
COMPLETED QUALIFICATION
If you are from an English-speaking background, you will meet our English language requirements if your qualification was:
- an AQF Diploma or higher from a recognised institution,
- taught and examined in English.
Please provide:
- official academic transcript
- proof of citizenship or residency.
If you are from a non-English-speaking background, you will meet our English language requirements if your qualification was:
- an AQF Bachelor or higher from a recognised institution,
- taught and examined in English,
- completed within the five years before you start your degree at UNSW.
If you are from a non-English-speaking background, you will meet our English language requirements if your qualification was:
- an AQF Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree,
- taught and examined in English
- gained within the two years before you start your degree at UNSW.
Please provide:
- official academic transcript
- a statement or certificate issued by the Registrar, or equivalent, confirming that the sole language of instruction and assessment was in English. Your statement or certificate must be on official letterhead and you will need to provide the original document.
INCOMPLETE QUALIFICATION
If you hold an incomplete qualification, you will meet our English language requirement for specific degrees if your studies were:
- completed for at least one year full-time at AQF Bachelor level or higher from a recognised institution
- taught and examined in English,
- undertaken no more than two years prior to commencement of UNSW degree, if you are from a non-English speaking background
Please provide:
- official academic transcript
- a statement or certificate issued by the Registrar, or equivalent, confirming that the sole language of instruction and assessment was in English. Your statement or certificate must be on official letterhead and you will need to provide the original document.
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What is an English waiver?
An English waiver is a decision by UNSW to waive the English language requirements based on life experience and circumstances. To apply for an English waiver you will need to meet any two of the conditions listed below.
How can I apply for an English waiver?
- You can apply for an English Waiver during your online application – just submit a personal statement with your supporting documentation under the English Language Requirements section of the online application form.
- If you are applying for an Undergraduate and Postgraduate course, you can apply for an English waiver by submitting an enquiry here.
- If you are applying for a Higher Degree by Research, please upload your request and supporting documents to your online application as one file.
Is my country recognised as an English-speaking country?
UNSW recognises the following countries as English-speaking: American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Canada, Fiji, Gibraltar, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, The Gambia, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Does UNSW accept all requests for an English waiver?
- UNSW does not accept any requests for an English waiver for the Graduate Diploma in Psychology, Master of Psychology (including combined PhD/Master) or Master of Teaching (Primary and Secondary).
- UNSW Canberra does not accept any requests for an English waiver for Higher Degree Research program including the Doctor of Philosophy, Professional Doctorates, Master by Research or Master of Philosophy.
Conditions for an English Waiver
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English Language Test Scores – between two-five years ago
You completed the IELTS, TOEFL IBT, TOEFL PBT, PTE, C1 Advanced Cambridge, C2 Proficiency Cambridge or the ANU Access program between two to five years ago and achieved our minimum scores.
Please refer to English tests section above to see our minimum scores.
Please provide:
- Your test results.
English Language Test Scores – no more than two years before your intended start date
You completed the IELTS, TOEFL IBT, TOEFL PBT, PTE Academic, UNSW UEEC, C1 Advanced Cambridge or C2 Proficiency Cambridge within the last two years. Use the table to see if your English Language Test scores meet the scores required for your desired course.
Please provide:
- Your test results
Applicable to which program/s IELTS - Academic version only TOEFL IBT TOEFL PBT PTE Academic UNSW Global UEEC C1 Advanced Cambridge C2 Proficiency Cambridge All programs except where specified below 6.0 overall (min. 5.5 in each subtest) 79 overall (min. 21 in writing, 12 in reading, 11 in listening, 17 in speaking) 500 overall (min. 4.5 in TWE) 50 overall (min. 42 in each subtest) Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C and a minimum grade of C- in the writing component. 169 overall (min.162 in each subtest) N/A
All Law and Business undergraduate & postgraduate coursework programs (excluding UNSW Canberra and Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice)
Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) including double degree
Bachelor of Nutrition/Master of Dietetics & Food Innovation
Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology
Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Medicine/Master of Pharmacy
Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Graduate Certificate in Myopia Management
6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 58 overall (min. 50 in each subtest) Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component. 176 overall (min.169 in each subtest) 180 overall (min.180 in each subtest) All Arts, Design & Architecture postgraduate coursework and research programs (excluding UNSW Canberra, Art & Design postgraduate coursework programs and Master of Teaching (Primary and Secondary)) 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 58 overall (min. 50 in each subtest) Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component. 176 overall (min.169 in each subtest) 180 overall (min.180 in each subtest) All research programs excluding UNSW Canberra 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest) 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 58 overall (min. 50 in each subtest) Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C in the writing component. 176 overall (min.169 in each subtest) 180 overall (min.180 in each subtest) All Business and Law postgraduate research programs (excluding UNSW Canberra) 6.5 overall (min. 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in other subtests) 90 overall (min. 24 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE) 58 overall (min. 58 in writing, 50 in other subtests) Successful completion with a minimum overall grade of C+ and a minimum grade of C+ in the writing component. 176 overall (min.176 in writing, 169 in other subtests) 180 overall (min.180 in each subtest) Master of Teaching (Primary and Secondary) and Bachelor of Education (all programs) English waivers are not available for admission to the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and Bachelor of Education Master of Psychology (Clinical & Forensic) including combined PhD/Master English waivers are not available for admission to the Master of Psychology (including combined PhD/Master) Graduate Diploma in Psychology English waivers are not available for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Psychology -
Directly relevant Work Experience for at least the last two years – any program
You have at least two years of directly relevant work experience, in the relevant industry or equivalent discipline practice, in an English-speaking country or workplace where the sole language of business was English.
Please provide:
- A letter from your employer on company letterhead which states your position title, the duties you undertook and an idea of what level of English was spoken and how English was used in terms of written or verbal communication.
Directly relevant Work Experience for at least five years out of the last seven – AGSM @ UNSW program only
You have five years, out of the last seven, of directly relevant work experience, in the relevant industry or equivalent discipline practice, in an English-speaking country or workplace where the sole language of business was English.
Please provide a letter from your employer on company letterhead for any employment which is not already covered by the referee letters you have already submitted with your AGSM application.
Please provide:
- A letter from your employer on company letterhead which states your position title, the duties you undertook and an idea of what level of English was spoken and how English was used in terms of written or verbal communication.
If you can demonstrate this experience, you will not need to satisfy a second condition for an English waiver.
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You successfully completed at least one year of full-time study, in an assessable qualification, at a university or other post-secondary educational institution where the sole language of instruction and assessment was English.
Please provide:
- A statement or certificate by the institution’s Registrar, or equivalent, confirming this, which is an official document from the institution or on official letterhead.
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You lived in a recognised English-speaking country for at least five years before you plan to start your course at UNSW.
Please provide:
- References which state whether a basic, medium, high or academic level of English speaking and writing skills was needed.
- Copies of passports and/or visas to prove your residency in the English-speaking country was for at least five years.
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You hold a current valid NAATI accreditation as a Professional Interpreter or Translator, formerly known as Level 3 accredited.
Please provide:
- Your certificate of NAATI accreditation.
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You sat the GMAT within the last five years and you scored a minimum overall GMAT score of 550 with a minimum score of 25 in Verbal, 35 in Quantitative and 4.0 in the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA).
Please provide:
- Your test results.
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You are a qualified doctor/health professional overseas, hold a current registration with the Medical Board of Australia and are currently employed in the health system in Australia.
Please provide:
- Your CV with referees.
- Proof of your current registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
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You can supply evidence of successfully completing a UNSW Study Abroad or Exchange program within the last two years.
Please provide:
- Your transcript.
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You can supply evidence of successfully completing a program within the last two years, which is recognised by UNSW as a defined qualification pathway.
Please provide:
- Your transcript.
- You can apply for an English Waiver during your online application – just submit a personal statement with your supporting documentation under the English Language Requirements section of the online application form.
Study Abroad & Exchange students
To ensure students have the best possible experience at UNSW and to maximise their chances of personal and academic success, all students including exchange and study abroad students need to meet our English language requirements. You can view the list of English-speaking countries here.
If English isn't your first language you will need to provide proof of English proficiency at time of application and you can do this by providing evidence that you meet one of UNSW’s approved criteria. You should upload your supporting documents to your Study Abroad or Exchange application. English proficiency is an entry requirement and we cannot accept students without it.
Here are some ways you can achieve the language requirements. We recommend you also review the full list of English Language options above. No other tests or options can be accepted.
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UNSW accepts English language test scores to meet our English language requirements provided:
- You have completed the test no more than two years before your intended start date, and
- You achieve the minimum scores for the Study Abroad and Exchange program. Study Abroad and Exchange students are only required to meet the overall score for IELTS and TOEFL. You do not need to meet each of the subtests as per a full degree student.
IELTS Academic version
onlyTOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT)
TOEFL Paper-based Test
(PBT)6.5 overall
90 overall
577 overall
You should register for your English language test early to avoid delays.
Please note: TOEFL MyBest scores is not a recognised or accepted language test. The Department of Home Affairs has advised that results from multiple tests cannot be used for meeting English Language proficiency requirements for a student visa. -
UNSW recognises some academic qualifications completed in non-English speaking countries. These qualifications, together with the minimum results required, are listed in the table below.
All qualifications must have been undertaken no more than two years prior to the year of commencement of your study at UNSW except for qualifications from Denmark, Sweden or Norway, which must be undertaken no more than four years prior to the year of commencement of study at UNSW.Qualification
Minimum Requirement
Danish Studentereksamen or Higher Preparatory Examination
- Grade 7 in English in the final year (English B or English A)
German Abitur
- Grade 12 in English
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
- Level 4 in English Language or
Literature in English
All India Senior School Certificate - [CBSE]
- Grade of C1 in English Core
Indian School Certificate - [ICSE]
- 70% in English
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
- Grade 4 or above in one of the following IB English courses
- English A: language and literature at standard or higher level
- English A: literature at standard or higher level
- English B at higher level
Norwegian Certificate of Upper Secondary Education
- Grade 4 in the First Year of Upper Secondary English (if this is the only completed English subject); or average grade of 4 in all completed Upper Secondary English subjects
Singapore - Cambridge GCE A Levels
- C grade in a Humanities, Higher 1 (H1) or Higher 2 (H2) subject or C grade in the General Paper
Swedish Secondary School Leaving Certificate
- Grade D in English in the final year (English 6/English Course B)
Swiss Matura
- Grade 5 in English
United Kingdom GCE A Levels
- A minimum of grade C in a Humanities-based subject at an A2 level or a minimum of grade C in the General Paper at an A2 level
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Study Abroad and Exchange students who have successfully completed at least one consecutive year of full-time study study at an AQF Bachelor level or higher from a recognised institution where the sole language of instruction and assessment was English, may not be required to undertake a language test if they can provide a statement or certificate from their home university confirming this. This can be in the form of a statement or certificate issued by the Registrar (or equivalent) on official headed paper.
The study must have been completed no more than two years prior to the commencement of your Study Abroad or Exchange program at UNSW. -
If you don’t quite meet the UNSW English language requirements, you may wish to consider undertaking English language study through the UNSW Global University English Entry Course (UEEC) program. You can apply to UEEC to undertake English language study prior to your study abroad or exchange. You will be provided with a conditional study abroad or exchange offer and you can demonstrate you meet our English language requirements by taking the UEEC program and achieving the minimum grade of C+ and C in writing. You are responsible for paying any tuition fees directly to UEEC.
Things to know
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UNSW recognises the follow countries as English-speaking: American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Canada, Fiji, Gibraltar, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, The Gambia, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
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If your application does not meet our English language requirements, but you are otherwise eligible for admission to your desired course, you will be issued a Conditional Letter of Offer.
A full Offer for admission will be issued when you submit documents which demonstrate that you meet our English language requirements.
Conditional Offers based on English language requirements are not offered to UAC applicants for domestic undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs and any Higher Degree Research applicants.
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UNSW Global has university pathway programs that provide a seamless transition to UNSW Sydney so you can achieve your academic and career goals including the University English Entry Course.
With a Conditional Package Offer, you will be able to apply for a student visa for the duration of UNSW Global’s University English Entry Course (UEEC) and your UNSW course.
The package offer is only valid for UNSW Global’s UEEC and this depends on whether you are accepted into the UNSW Global.
Conditional package offers are not offered for entry to the Bachelor of Education (any program), Graduate Diploma in Psychology, Master of Psychology (including combined PhD/Master) or Master of Teaching (Primary and Secondary).
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For advice on applying for a student visa, visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Need some help?
If you need help assistance with the English language requirements, contact us below. We're here to help.