University of Sydney 2027–28 admissions update: applications, courses and scholarships

Direct Answer

The University of Sydney has opened 2028 applications for most standard courses, while introducing key changes for 2027 including a new Master of Sustainability, updated Bachelor of Commerce core units, and suspended engineering pathways. Scholarships for 2027 are now available. International students should note visa processing updates and OSHC premium adjustments from Bupa.

2028 Applications Now Open

The University of Sydney has opened applications for 2028 entry across the vast majority of its standard undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. This includes popular degrees in arts, sciences, business, engineering (where not suspended), and health disciplines.

Exceptions to note:

• Courses currently undergoing curriculum review may have delayed application openings
• Programs with non-standard intake timelines will open later in the year
• Applicants are advised to check individual course pages for specific availability

For 2028, the university continues to use a rolling admissions process. Early application is recommended, particularly for competitive programs and for international students requiring visa processing time. The university has confirmed that all standard documentation requirements remain in place, including academic transcripts, English language test scores, and any program-specific prerequisites.

New and Updated Courses for 2027

Master of Sustainability (New)

Starting in Semester 1, 2027, the Faculty of Science will launch a new Master of Sustainability (96 credit points). This program is designed with a layered structure:

• Foundation units covering core sustainability principles
• Intermediate coursework exploring environmental, social, and economic dimensions
• Advanced specialist topics allowing students to focus on areas such as climate policy, sustainable resource management, or corporate sustainability

The degree aims to produce graduates equipped for roles in government, NGOs, consulting, and corporate sustainability departments. It is available for both domestic and international students.

Bachelor of Commerce (Updated)

The Business School has revised the Bachelor of Commerce and its five dual-degree variants, effective from 2027. Key changes include:

• Four new core units replacing older foundational subjects, with updated learning outcomes aligned to industry demands
• A new major in “Accounting, Governance and Regulation” — currently seeking accreditation from CPA Australia and CA ANZ
• The Human Resource Management major is now applying for AHRI (Australian Human Resources Institute) accreditation, with a decision expected by August 2026

These changes reflect the Business School’s ongoing curriculum refresh to maintain relevance in a rapidly changing global economy.

Digital Health and Data Science

Admission criteria for the Master of Digital Health and Data Science and its associated Graduate Certificate have been updated for 2027 entry. Prospective students should review the new requirements on the university’s course page before applying.

Suspended Engineering Courses

From January 2027, the following engineering programs will be suspended for two years:

• Master of Transport / Graduate Diploma / Graduate Certificate
• Master of Professional Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering)
• Master of Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering)

Reason for suspension: The Faculty of Engineering is conducting a comprehensive review of these programs. The suspension period allows the faculty to redesign curricula, incorporate emerging industry standards, and ensure alignment with accreditation bodies.

Impact on students:

• No new enrolments will be accepted into these programs for 2027 and 2028
• Current students enrolled before the suspension will be supported to complete their degrees
• The university has not announced replacement programs, but alternatives in related fields (e.g., civil engineering, environmental science) remain available

Students interested in transport or environmental engineering should consult with the university’s admissions team for guidance on alternative pathways.

Scholarships and Practical Updates

Sydney International Undergraduate Academic Excellence Scholarship (SIUAES)

Applications for the 2027 SIUAES are now open. This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. Key details:

• Covers a significant portion of tuition fees (amounts vary by year)
• Based on academic excellence in previous studies
• Automatic consideration for eligible applicants in most cases, but separate application may be required for some programs

Welfare Provider Change for U18 Students

From 19 December 2026, ISA will become the sole approved welfare provider for international students under 18 years of age. The previous arrangement with PSC will end on 18 December 2026. All U18 applicants and their families should ensure welfare arrangements are in place with ISA before the transition date.

Bupa OSHC Premium Increase

Following its annual review, Bupa has increased premiums for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). New offers of admission issued with Bupa OSHC will reflect a modest increase in the associated cost. The university has not disclosed specific amounts, but advises students to budget for slightly higher health cover expenses.

Visa Processing and AHPRA English Requirements

• The Department of Home Affairs has issued MD115 instructions that may affect visa processing times. Students must ensure all documentation is accurate and submitted promptly to avoid delays.
• Important: Proposed changes to AHPRA English language requirements remain at the university governance proposal stage and have not yet taken effect. Do not treat these as current policy.

FAQ

Q1: When should I apply for 2028 entry? A1: Applications for most standard courses are now open. Apply as early as possible, especially for competitive programs and if you need a student visa. Check individual course pages for specific deadlines.

Q2: What is the new Master of Sustainability about? A2: This 96-credit point program from the Faculty of Science starts in Semester 1, 2027. It covers sustainability from foundation to advanced topics, preparing graduates for careers in environmental policy, corporate sustainability, and resource management.

Q3: Are the suspended engineering courses permanently cancelled? A3: No. They are suspended for two years (2027–2028) while the Faculty of Engineering reviews and redesigns the curricula. Current students will be supported to complete their degrees.

Q4: How do I apply for the SIUAES scholarship? A4: For most programs, eligible international students are automatically considered based on their academic record. Some programs may require a separate application. Check the university’s scholarship page for your specific course.

Q5: What do U18 students need to do about welfare arrangements? A5: From 19 December 2026, ISA is the only approved welfare provider. If you are under 18, ensure your welfare arrangement is with ISA before this date. PSC arrangements end on 18 December 2026.

Q6: Are AHPRA English requirements changing for 2027? A6: No. Proposed changes are still under university governance review and have not been implemented. Current English language requirements remain in effect. Do not rely on unconfirmed changes.

Sources and Data As Of

This article is based on official updates from the University of Sydney, including:

• Admissions circulars for 2027–2028 entry
• Faculty announcements regarding course suspensions and new programs
• Scholarship application guidelines for 2027 SIUAES
• Welfare provider transition notices for U18 students

Data as of: May 2025. All information is subject to change. Students should verify details directly with the University of Sydney’s official website or admissions office before making decisions.