What is the UNSW Co-op Program?

The UNSW Co-op Program offers industry linked scholarships to high achieving students in the fields of Business (Commerce), Science, Engineering and the Built Environment. Note: There are four new programs open in 2009, Architectural Studies, Civil Engineering, Construction Management and Property and Software Engineering. Programs of study are all based on existing undergraduate programs at UNSW but also include the following benefits:

• Senior managers from industry and government have worked with UNSW academics to plan all Co-op Programs.
• UNSW Co-op Program Scholars receive structured industrial training (between 9 and 18 months) and gain highly valuable, relevant work experience with up to four different Sponsor companies.
• UNSW Co-op Program Scholars receive a tax-free scholarship of $15,000 per annum*. This is paid in fortnightly instalments and can be used at the student’s discretion.
• On graduation, Sponsors are always looking to recruit UNSW Co-op Program Scholars.

What are the benefits for students?

$60,000 - $75,000 scholarship*

• PLUS industry experience with leading employers,
• PLUS leadership & professional development training,
• PLUS networking opportunities,
• PLUS support throughout their degree.

*Scholarships pay $15,000 per year over 4 years for Business & Science degrees and 5 years for most Engineering degrees. (Note: Specific conditions apply for Mining Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Surveying and Spatial Information Systems). For details see Programs and refer to the specific program page.

Who should apply?

The UNSW Co-op Program is open to year 12 students entering university for the first time, or those commencing university for the first time after a gap year. Candidates for scholarships are not only selected on their academic ability, but also their communication skills, motivation, leadership potential, and passion for their chosen field of study.

What is the UAI requirement?

For a 2009 school leaver entering Business, the indicative academic requirement is UAI 95.7 (or equivalent), or entry into the Bachelor of Commerce program at UNSW which ever is the higher.

For Engineering, Built Environment or Science at UNSW a UAI 95.7 (or equivalent) satisfies the academic requirement for selection as a Co-op Scholar.

To accept a scholarship in the Engineering Programs you will need to ensure that you gain entry into the aligned specialised Program (e.g. Mechanical Engineering). Students will not be able to accept a Co-op Scholarship through the common first year program.

Any student expecting a UAI above 90 should consider applying as students often underestimate their own score.

Students can apply ONLINE here.

Want to find out more?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.