Non-Award
Set yourself up for success with the University Preparation Program (UPP) - an alternative pathway to university for people aged 20 or older.
Set yourself up for success with the University Preparation Program (UPP) - an alternative pathway to university for people aged 20 or older. This one-year program invites adults without any formal qualifications, such as the HSC, to undertake a series of courses that will prepare you for an easy transition into the degree of your choice.
You'll be introduced to university-style learning in a supportive environment and improve your academic skills before you start a degree. Essay writing, notetaking, giving presentations, critical thinking, researching and sitting exams are among the many skills you will learn.
Upon completion of the UPP, you can use your results to gain early entry into an extensive range of courses* at UNSW or apply to programs at other universities.
*Exclusions noted under Future Careers tab.
No qualifications required
This program is designed for adults over 20 years old who do not have any formal qualifications. If you didn't complete your HSC, get an ATAR or simply weren't ready to take on university right after high school graduation, UPP is an opportunity to gain the foundation you need to achieve your goals.
Four streams based on your interests
The UPP offers four streams which you'll choose based on what you'd like to study after completing the course: Humanities, Science, Business and Engineering. Each stream contains orientation courses where you'll learn the fundamentals of university study, as well as topic-specific content.
No tuition fees
There are no tuition fees for the UPP - it is fully funded by the Australian Government. However, there are some course-related costs you'll need to cover, including the Student Services and Amenities Fee and the cost of any course materials such as textbooks or calculators.
We provide opportunity, access and support to anyone who has earned it. As a mature age student ready to take control of your future, we'll give you the tools, encouragement and guidance to unlock your true potential.
The full university experience
UNSW has a vibrant student community with over 300 clubs, societies and social activities. You can use all the support services and facilities on campus, including career coaching, peer mentoring, mental health services and more.
Pathways for a brighter future
Thousands of students just like you have completed the UPP and have gone on to study a wide variety of degrees*, from education to biological science, engineering and construction management. University study opens up career opportunities you may never have thought were possible.
*Exclusions noted under Future Careers tab.
To be considered for admission to this course you must:
The UPP is a pre-entry program to help you improve your academic skills before you start a degree. Areas of study for degrees following the UPP include:
After completing the UPP, you'll be able to apply for a wide range of degree programs at UNSW and other universities. If you choose to study at UNSW, you'll benefit from our hands-on, practical approach to learning which focuses on building employability for success in the workforce. UNSW has been recognised for producing the most employable graduates in Australia*. Our students also earn the highest graduate median salaries of Go8 universities^.
*AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
Please note, UPP is not accepted as a basis for admission to the following UNSW programs: