Bachelor of Aviation (Flying)
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1
- Duration
- 3 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Other
- Codes
- UAC code 429500
- Program code 3980
- CRICOS code 017227G
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ATAR/2025 lowest selection rank
- 80.0 View all admission criteria
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2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $9,500*
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2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $181,000*
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2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $62,500*
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2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $348,000*
Entry Requirements
Fees
Fees
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Industry mentorship
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Leading academics
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Aviation Career Enrichment Program (Q-ACE)
Application closures for 2026
Undergraduate programs for 2026 intakes are closed for New Overseas Student Commencement (NOSC) applications. Applications for postgraduate programs remain open. Find out if this closure applies to you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
- FAQs
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) overview
The UNSW Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) is a three-year degree designed to prepare you to become a confident, licensed pilot. The program focuses on the knowledge, flying skills and safety awareness needed to become a professional pilot – whether you aim to work in general aviation, charter operations or as part of a multi-crew airline team.
Designed in collaboration with industry and aviation partners, this pilot training program combines academic coursework, simulator practice and in-air experience to accelerate your journey towards becoming a first officer.
You’ll spend half your time at UNSW’s Kensington Campus, studying aviation science, meteorology, human factors and air navigation, and the other half at our exclusive Flying Operations Unit (FOU) at Bankstown Airport. At our FOU, you’ll gain hands-on experience in our fleet of Diamond DA40 and Piper PA44 training aircraft and use advanced flight simulators and training systems designed to replicate real-world flight operations.
Throughout your degree, you’ll undertake all the flight training required to obtain your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Instrument Rating - Multi-Engine Aeroplane and Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory. The program includes approximately 200 hours of flight training and 30 hours of simulator training, preparing you to graduate career-ready and fully equipped for commercial aviation roles.
Why study aviation at UNSW?
Study at a global top 20 university
Launch your flying career at a global top 20 university 20. As the only Group of Eight (Go8) university offering aviation, UNSW provides a unique combination of academic excellence and professional pilot training. The UNSW School of Aviation has been a leading aviation educator for over 25 years, operating flight training under its own Air Operator’s Certificate and conducting world-class aviation research.
Learn from expert educators
Our aviation educators have come directly from leadership roles within organisations such as Qantas, Airservices Australia, CASA, ATSB and the Federal Airports Corporation. Programs are designed and coordinated by industry experts, including retired airline captains and aviation specialists who bring real-world insight to every lesson. Academic staff work closely with regulatory authorities, industry bodies and research collaborators to ensure your training aligns with the latest aviation standards and best practices.
Gain industry connections
In your second year, you can participate in Q-ACE – the Qantas Aviation Career Enrichment Program. Delivered by the Qantas Group, this initiative helps prepare aspiring airline pilots for direct-entry employment opportunities after completing their university studies.
In your final year, you’ll be matched with an airline pilot mentor through the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA). This mentorship provides practical career guidance, insight into airline operations and support in navigating your transition from study to the aviation industry.
Want to see more from UNSW Science?
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) entry requirements
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- The 2025 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2025.
- The 2025 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.
- The 2025 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2025. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2025 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
*The Lowest ATAR to which an offer was made, for this program, is based on a UNSW Gateway Early Conditional Offer.
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At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.
To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.
We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
Additional Selection Criteria
In addition to your UAC or direct application (via Apply Online), there is a three part selection criteria. This consists of:
Academic entry
An interview – You will need to fill in a form and return an internal application form. You can also request one from the Undergraduate Coordinator at aviation@unsw.edu.au or by calling +61 2 9385 5756. We will arrange interviews with applicants after receiving the internal application form.
CASA Class 1 medical certificate – You must obtain a CASA Class 1 medical certificate before beginning flying training.
Assumed knowledge
Mathematics Advanced
Adjustment Factors
We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.
HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.
Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.
Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.
Admission pathways
Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below and get in touch with our Future Student Advisers to discuss your path to UNSW.
Gateway Admission Pathway
This scheme is open to students who attend Gateway schools, live in a low-socioeconomic area based on IRSAD and IEO indexes of SEIFA criteria, or are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person. It adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides early offers and early conditional offers to UNSW.
Entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
Please note, this program has stricter English Language requirements than other UNSW programs which must be adhered to in order to be eligible to gain entry into this program. Please refer to the English Language Requirement webpage for confirmation of acceptable means of proving English language competency.
International direct entry
Information for applicants with CBSE, HKDSE or Singapore A Levels Qualification
Calculating your CBSE Score:
Awarded by CBSE, average percentage marks across English or Hindi, and your best four remaining subjects. Where marks are given as a range, the mid-point for that range is used e.g. 75 to 80 = 77.5.
Calculating your HKDSE Score:
Entry requirements are based on the aggregate of the best 5 achieved category A subjects (category B and C subjects are not considered).
For subjects other than Citizenship and Social Development: level 5**=7 points, level 5*=6 points, level 5=5 points, level 4=4 points, level 3=3 points, level 2=2 points, level 1=1 point, Level U=0 point.
For subject Citizenship and Social Development: Attained=2 points, Unattained=0 point. Citizenship and Social Development will only be counted towards the aggregate if the 2 points awarded for Attained ranks among the student’s best five scoring subjects.
If Mathematics Compulsory Part and Extended Part (Module 1 or 2) are both presented, both scores can be counted.
Calculating your Singapore A Levels:
Due to significant changes to the GCE A-Level Curriculum and University Admissions Score (UAS) calculation effective 2026, UNSW assessment is currently under review.
Note: Entry requirements published on this page are correct as of the day of publication and may change without notice.
We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.
Please contact us for direct entry requirements.
Additional Selection Criteria
In addition to your UAC or direct application (via Apply Online), there is a three part selection criteria. This consists of:
Academic entry
An interview – You will need to fill in a form and return an internal application form. You can also request one from the Undergraduate Coordinator at aviation@unsw.edu.au or by calling +61 2 9385 5756. We will arrange interviews with applicants after receiving the internal application form.
CASA Class 1 medical certificate – You must obtain a CASA Class 1 medical certificate before beginning flying training.
Admission pathways
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
Please note, this program has stricter English Language requirements than other UNSW programs which must be adhered to in order to be eligible to gain entry into this program. Please refer to the English Language Requirement webpage for confirmation of acceptable means of proving English language competency.
What will I study in the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying)?
The Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) prepares aspiring pilots for a professional career in general aviation, commercial airlines and global aviation operations. You’ll explore the science and technology behind flight, develop advanced aeronautical knowledge and undertake all the flight training required to earn your pilot licences.
This degree combines academic coursework, simulation training and practical flying experience, ensuring you graduate with the skills, licences and confidence to take on global opportunities in the aviation sector.
Academic coursework
Your academic studies are based at UNSW’s Kensington Campus, where you’ll complete courses in subject areas such as aeronautical knowledge, aviation transport economics, commercial aerodynamics and aviation safety and resource management. The Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) is designed with industry experts, grounding your learning in current industry practice and real-world flying experience.
Flight training components
Your practical flight training takes place through the UNSW Flying Operations Unit (FOU) at Bankstown Airport. The FOU includes state-of-the-art flight simulators, a modern fleet of Diamond DA40 and Piper PA44 aircraft, dedicated briefing rooms and flight planning facilities.
The FOU operators under UNSW’s own Air Operator’s Certificate. At the FOU, you’ll complete approximately 200 hours of flight training and 30 hours of simulator training, covering:
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
- Instrument Rating - Multi Engine Aeroplane
- Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory
Training is conducted in a structured, progressive format that integrates theory and flying practice. You’ll learn in Diamond DA40 and Piper PA44 aircrafts, supported by advanced flight simulators that replicate real-world flight conditions.
This integrated training approach ensures you graduate as a career-ready pilot, equipped with the technical, operational and decision-making skills needed in professional aviation environments.
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) program structure
Over this three-year full-time program, you’ll complete a total of 144 units of credit (UOC). This includes core courses (126 UOC), prescribed electives (6 UOC) and general education courses (12 UOC).
You'll spend half the program studying academic courses at our Kensington Campus and the other half at our Bankstown Flying Operations Unit (FOU) where you'll learn to fly under the guidance of aviation experts.
The academic program includes courses in commercial aircraft knowledge, aviation transport economics and flight planning. In addition to theoretical studies, you will undertake approximately 200 hours of flight training and 30 hours of simulator training.
Full program structure
Students must complete 144 units of credit (UOC) to graduate with a Bachelor of Aviation (RPAS). This three-year full-time course includes core courses (126 UOC), prescribed electives (6 UOC) and general education courses (12 UOC).
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Aeronautical Knowledge (12 UOC)
Simulation in Aviation and Airworthiness Management (6 UOC)
Introduction to Human Factors: The Safety Science of Human Performance (6 UOC)
Aviation Transport Economics (6 UOC)
Improving Communication Skills for STEMM (6 UOC)
Mathematics for Life Sciences (6 UOC)
Statistics for Life and Social Sciences (6 UOC)
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Commercial Navigation (6 UOC)
Commercial Meteorology (6 UOC)
Commercial Human Factors, Flight Rules and Air Law (6 UOC)
Commercial Aircraft General Knowledge (6 UOC)
Commercial Aerodynamics (6 UOC)
Commercial Operation, Performance and Planning (6 UOC)
Instrument Rating (6 UOC)
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Air Transport Flight Planning (6 UOC)
Air Transport Aerodynamics and Aircraft Systems (6 UOC)
Air Transport Performance and Navigation (6 UOC)
Air Transport Air Law, Meteorology and Human Factors (6 UOC)
Aviation Safety and Resource Management (6 UOC)
Aviation Research Methods (6 UOC)
Students must choose one of the following:
Human Factors Tools and Methods (6 UOC)
Aviation Work Placement 1 (6 UOC)
Students must also complete 12 UOC of General Education courses outside the Faculty of Science.
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The following lists all of the flight tests to be passed during the Professional Pilot Program.
All flight tests are conducted by a CASA Flight Training Examiner (FTE) or a CASA-Approved Testing Officer (ATO).
Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL)
Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
Instrument Rating - Multi Engine Aeroplane
Grade 3 Instructor Rating (for those choosing this elective)
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The following lists all the written examinations required for licensing to be passed during the Professional Pilot Program.
Pre-Solo Air Legislation
Pre-Area Solo
Recreation Pilot Licence Aeroplane (RPLA)*
Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) (Seven Examinations)*
Instrument Rating (IREX)*
- Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) (Seven Examinations)*
*CASA Examinations. The remainder are UNSW in-house examinations.
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) career outcomes
Australia has one of the most highly developed aviation industries in the world. It’s home to some of the best international airlines and major aviation hubs serving Asia, the Americas and Europe. With demand for qualified commercial pilots rising globally, UNSW graduates are well-positioned to launch successful and sustainable careers in the aviation sector.
As a graduate of the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying), you’ll have the professional experience to work across a range of aviation career pathways, including:
- Chief operating officer
- Commercial airline pilot
- Flight instructor
- Flight operations manager
- Private airline pilot
Beyond flying, many pilots choose to expand their careers into aviation management, operations or safety, working in leadership roles across airlines, airports, regulatory agencies and aviation businesses.
The typical salary for a commercial pilot in Australia is around $115,000, with employment projected to grow by 31.4% over the next five years – reflecting strong, ongoing demand for skilled pilots and aviation professionals (Seek, 2025).
UNSW’s industry partnerships, hands-on flight training program and strong reputation for aviation education ensure you graduate career-ready, equipped with the technical skills and professional recognition to work in Australia or abroad.
Our alumni
“Being taught the flying perspective within the aviation discipline was of great value throughout my career. It taught me the responsibility that you need to not only be a good pilot but a good operator as well. The emphasis on working as a team within projects and in day-to-day, as well as the importance of on-time flying were invaluable traits I have taken into my career. Over the last decade I have kept in touch with many of my friends in my cohort. My three years at UNSW were the most fun I have had in my life and can never be replaced.”
Ryan Smith
Captain, QantasLink
“Completing your education at UNSW doesn’t only give you high quality flight training but also a deeper level of industry knowledge that just doing your pilot training cannot give you. The current environment and my 25 years in the industry has proven that you need to have a fall back during the down turns. Completing my flying training with UNSW gave me a tertiary qualification that allowed me a much easier path into postgraduate study when I lost my medical.”
Jeremy Robertson
Aviation Medical Examiner and Commercial Pilot, R&D AeroMed
How to apply for the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) at UNSW
Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Visit the Apply section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.
On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Besides submitting an application through UAC, you must complete the internal application form for the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying). We schedule interviews on a case-by-case basis, starting in early November. Due to the high volume of applications, we encourage you to submit your internal application form as early as possible.
Ready to apply?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For details, visit the international admissions information page.
*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. For details, visit the under 18 international students page.
Besides submitting an application through UAC, you must complete the internal application form for the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying). We schedule interviews on a case-by-case basis, starting in early November. Due to the high volume of applications, we encourage you to submit your internal application form as early as possible.
Ready to apply?
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) fees and scholarships
Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 2
*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the university and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year.
The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only - other fees and charges are not included.
You’ll need to cover the flight training costs portion of this degree out-of-pocket, as these expenses cannot be covered by HECS. In 2025, the anticipated standard cost of flight training to obtain the minimum of a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Instrument Rating - Multi Engine Aeroplane is $150,000. Additional flying costs are incurred depending on your choice of third year flying practicum and if more than the 200 flight hours are required to achieve proficiency in any aspect of the flight training. Students will be notified of their flight training costs in October of the year before they undertake the training. This significant investment is a crucial step towards achieving your dream of becoming a professional pilot and opening numerous exciting career opportunities in the aviation industry.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
You’ll need to cover the flight training costs portion of this degree out-of-pocket, as these expenses cannot be covered by HECS. In 2025, the anticipated standard cost of flight training to obtain the minimum of a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Instrument Rating - Multi Engine Aeroplane is $150,000. Additional flying costs are incurred depending on your choice of third year flying practicum and if more than the 200 flight hours are required to achieve proficiency in any aspect of the flight training. Students will be notified of their flight training costs in October of the year before they undertake the training. This significant investment is a crucial step towards achieving your dream of becoming a professional pilot and opening numerous exciting career opportunities in the aviation industry.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Featured scholarship
- SYD100 Scholarship
The Sydney Airport SYD100 Scholarship has been established to support educationally disadvantaged students undertaking study with UNSW Aviation. This scholarship covers full tuition fees for four years and $25,000 towards residential fees (where relevant).
Featured scholarship
- SYD100 Scholarship
The Sydney Airport SYD100 Scholarship has been established to support educationally disadvantaged students undertaking study with UNSW Aviation. This scholarship covers full tuition fees for four years and $25,000 towards residential fees (where relevant).
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) FAQs
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To become a licensed pilot in Australia, you must complete flight training and pass both theory and practical assessments. UNSW’s Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) integrates all of these requirements within a single degree. You’ll study aviation and flight operations at Kensington Campus, undertake simulator and in-air training at Bankstown Airport and graduate with the qualifications and flying experience required for commercial pilot employment in Australia or overseas.
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Becoming a professional pilot through UNSW typically takes three years of full-time study. This includes both academic coursework and structured flight training leading to your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Instrument Rating. Many graduates enter the workforce immediately after completing the degree, while others choose to add flight hours, gain instructor ratings, or progress toward the Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) to qualify for airline-level roles.
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The Q-ACE Program is delivered by the Qantas Group to help prepare aspiring pilots for direct-entry employment with airlines. Available to eligible UNSW second-year aviation students, it provides career development sessions, industry mentoring and exposure to airline recruitment standards.
Beyond Q-ACE, UNSW maintains strong industry connections with airlines, airports, and aviation organisations, ensuring students benefit from a broad network of professional pathways into the aviation industry.
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When you complete the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying), you’ll graduate with a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), an Instrument Rating – Multi Engine Aeroplane and Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory credit. You’ll complete around 200 hours of flight training and 30 hours of simulator training through the UNSW Flying Operations Unit (FOU), ensuring you meet the flight hours, knowledge and safety requirements to become a career-ready commercial pilot.
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Choosing the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) at UNSW gives you a university degree recognised worldwide. You’ll combine professional flight training with aviation science, safety and management studies, gaining the analytical, leadership and technical skills valued by major airlines and regulators. Graduate career-ready with access to industry networks and the flexibility to pursue flying, training or management across the global aviation sector.
Progress starts here – at a world-leading university
Top 20 Worldwide
Ranked in the global top 20 for three consecutive years
QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
Winner of the AFR Most Employable University Award six years in a row
AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020–2025
Australia's #1 for Innovation
Highest number of startups and spinouts from university-developed tech
SCOPR report, 2024
It gives weight to my qualification when I tell people I completed my flight training at UNSW.
