How to become one of the most employable graduates
A year-by-year career guide for international students
Studying away from home is a bold step and a meaningful investment in your future. At UNSW, we empower you to realise your full potential by providing guidance and employability resources every step of the way. With career-focused education and clear career pathways, we’ll help you become one of Australia’s most employable graduates.
UNSW Employability is a hub for enhancing your global employability, providing you with the resources, tools and opportunities to support your career-focused education.
Our career development services are available to all our students. With an Australian student visa while studying outside Australia, you’ll be open to the possibilities of launching your career once you graduate.
Set yourself up for success
Research shows the earlier you plan and build skills towards your career goals, the more employable you become. By planning in your first year, you can make the most of your time at UNSW and take full advantage of the services and opportunities available to you.
When starting out, it’s essential to get to know yourself better and set goals. Ask yourself questions like: What am I good at? What do I dislike doing? What are my interests and passions? Where would I like to work and why? What is my dream job?
It’s also key to research what employers are looking for and how you can tailor your career development towards these skills. Career-focused curriculum and extra-curricular opportunities at UNSW will develop top skills that employers look for, such as written, and interpersonal communication skills.
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According to the Australian Association of Graduate Employers Employer Survey 2025, Australian employers rate the following skills as very important when making their recruitment decisions:
Top skills employers look for 1. Communication skills
6. Adaptability 2. Teamwork7. Resilience 3. Interpersonal skills 8. Professional values, judgement and ethics 4. Problem-solving 9. Analytical skills 5. Collaboration 10. Aptitude for learning Employers also stated that the skills that candidates most lacked were: understanding of the organisation, commercial awareness and communication skills. If you excel in these areas, it will help you stand out.
Your year-by-year career guide
Build your knowledge
first year
Join curricular programs
middle years
Start applying for work globally
final year
Be open to opportunities
after you graduate
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The first year of your studies is all about building knowledge and getting into a new routine. Focus on your coursework while becoming familiar with Australian culture, the employment market and potential career pathways.
You might not have a lot to put on a resume, cover letter or LinkedIn profile yet, so it’s a great time to set yourself up with the basics needed to apply for extra-curricular and employment opportunities.
First year checklist
- Prepare a resume and cover letter – Use the UNSW Resume Checker online toll and get it reviewed at a 1-to-1 UNSW career advice appointment
- Create a LinkedIn profile – Remember to keep it up to date
- Gain experience and build soft skills with volunteering and professional development opportunities offered by UNSW Advantage
- Expand your network by joining a student society or volunteering with UNSW’s student association Arc
Consider going the extra mile to get ahead of the game.
- Practicing your English: UNSW Personalised English Language Enhancement (PELE)
- Completing CDEV2000: Creating Your Career as an elective or general education unit
- Stay up to date with the latest events and news from UNSW
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There are many co-curricular programs at UNSW to help you with your career development, leadership and entrepreneurship. The middle years of your degree are an ideal time to participate in some of these and add to your personal and professional development outside of the classroom.
Second year checklist
- Apply for the Professional Development Program for International Students
- Join a mentoring program to connect with alumni and industry professionals
- Develop your entrepreneurial confidence through the Founders Program
- Complete internships and other Worked Integrated Learning opportunities
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In your final year, it’s time to start applying for work globally and/or in Australia. Be sure to use a variety of job search methods to increase your chances of success. Remember, as a new graduate, you may work in various fields before finding the right fit for you.
Final year checklist
- Apply for jobs using multiple strategies, focusing on quality versus quantity and don’t limit yourself to graduate programs, considering small-to-medium-sized businesses. Discover hundreds of opportunities, including full-time, part-time, graduate and internship roles through exclusive job boards tailored to UNSW students
- Research visas and opportunities in Australia, your home country or other countries
- Connect with the UNSW Alumni LinkedIn group
- Prepare your applications and practice for interviews with a career development facilitator
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The world of work is constantly changing, and the transition from a full-time student into a permanent full-time employee is increasingly rare. More graduates are starting their careers in short-term contracts or temporary positions.
Be open to opportunities and don’t wait for that perfect job to appear. Use short-term opportunities as stepping-stones towards your ultimate goal. Keep building on your skills and experience while staying motivated to get your dream job.
Be sure to connect with the UNSW Alumni LinkedIn group and connect with alumni from your country.
Highest median graduate salaries of Go8 universities
QILT Graduate Outcome Survey, 2023
Most employable graduates
QS World University Rankings, 2026
#1 for career outcomes
Australian Financial Review (AFR) Best Universities Ranking, 2025
International student career resources
UNSW Employability can help you get ready for the future your want. Whether you want to climb the ranks, explore different industries, or strike out on your own, they'll help you discover what motivates you and where your career journey can take you.
Want to find out more about study options?
If you have any questions about studying at UNSW or how you can make your studies work for you, contact us below. We’re here to help.
