Admissions

USYD opens 2028 applications: a two-year planning timeline for international students

Direct Answer

Yes, the University of Sydney has opened applications for 2028 entry for most standard courses. This is part of a broader update that also includes new Master of Sustainability programs, engineering course suspensions, and updated entry requirements for 2027. International students should plan their applications at least two years ahead to secure places and scholarships.

2028 Applications: What You Need to Know Now

The University of Sydney has officially opened applications for 2028 entry for the vast majority of its standard courses. This early opening gives international students a significant advantage in planning their study journey.

Key points to understand:

Most standard courses are now accepting 2028 applications
Courses currently undergoing curriculum review are temporarily excluded
Courses with non-standard opening dates will become available later
Early application is strongly recommended for competitive programs

This two-year planning window allows students to carefully prepare their documentation, meet English language requirements, and explore scholarship opportunities without last-minute pressure.

Engineering Postgraduate Changes: What’s Suspended and Why

From January 2027, several engineering postgraduate programs will be suspended for two years. The Faculty of Engineering is currently conducting a comprehensive review of its curriculum, leading to these temporary changes.

The suspended programs include:

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

The suspension is not permanent. It is a strategic pause to allow the faculty to redesign and improve these programs. Students interested in these fields should monitor the University of Sydney website for updates on when they will reopen.

Alternative programs in engineering may still be available. Contact UNILINK for guidance on which courses remain open for 2027 and 2028 intake.

New Master of Sustainability: A 96-Credit Program

The University of Sydney is launching a brand new Master of Sustainability program, starting in Semester 1, 2027. This 96-credit program is offered by the Faculty of Science.

The program structure includes:

Foundation-level learning to build core knowledge
Advanced topics that allow specialisation
A layered approach suitable for students from diverse academic backgrounds

This degree is ideal for students passionate about environmental issues, sustainable development, and climate change solutions. It combines scientific knowledge with practical skills needed in the growing sustainability sector.

Updated Entry Requirements for Digital Health and Data Science

For students interested in the Master of Digital Health and Data Science, and the related Graduate Certificate, entry requirements have been updated for 2027 intake.

These updates reflect the evolving nature of the field and the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards. International students should check the specific requirements for their intended program, as changes may affect eligibility.

Key considerations:

Review updated entry criteria on the university website
Ensure your academic qualifications meet the new standards
Prepare supporting documents early to avoid delays

Business Bachelor’s Update: New Core and Majors for 2027

The Business School has updated the Bachelor of Commerce and five associated double degrees for 2027 entry. These changes include new core courses, updated learning outcomes, and fresh major options.

Specific updates include:

Four new core courses designed to enhance foundational business knowledge
Updated learning outcomes aligned with industry needs
A new major in “Accounting, Governance and Regulation” (currently seeking CPA and CA ANZ accreditation)
Human Resource Management major seeking AHRI accreditation (outcome expected August 2026)

These changes ensure graduates are well-prepared for the modern business environment. The new majors also offer pathways to professional accreditation, which is valuable for career progression.

Scholarships: Apply Now for 2027

The Sydney International Undergraduate Academic Excellence Scholarship (SIUAES) is now open for 2027 applications. This prestigious scholarship recognises outstanding academic achievement among international students.

Eligibility highlights:

Open to international undergraduate applicants
Based on academic excellence
Early application is recommended as scholarships are competitive

Students planning for 2028 should also note that scholarship applications typically open two years in advance. Applying early maximises your chances of receiving financial support.

Welfare Provider Change from December 2026

From December 19, 2026, ISA will become the sole approved welfare provider for international students under 18 years of age. The current PSC arrangement will end on December 18, 2026.

This change affects:

All U18 international students
Their parents or guardians who need to arrange welfare
Schools and agents involved in the enrolment process

Students under 18 must ensure their welfare arrangements comply with this new requirement. Contact the university or your education agent for guidance on transitioning to ISA.

Visa and Health Insurance Updates

Two important updates affect visa processing and health cover:

Visa Processing (MD115): The MD115 measure may impact visa processing times. Ensure all Department of Home Affairs (DHA) documents are accurate and submitted on time to avoid delays.

BUPA OSHC Price Increase: BUPA has increased its Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) premiums following an annual review. New offers containing BUPA OSHC will reflect a slight price increase. The exact amount is not specified, but students should budget for higher health insurance costs.

AHPRA English Requirements: Still Under Review

Important clarification: The proposed AHPRA English language changes remain at the university governance proposal stage. They have not been implemented and should not be reported as current policy.

What this means:

No changes to English requirements for health-related programs are yet in effect
Students should continue meeting existing requirements
Monitor official AHPRA and university communications for updates

FAQ

Q1: Can I apply for 2028 entry now? Yes, applications for 2028 entry are open for most standard courses at the University of Sydney. Some courses under review or with non-standard opening dates will open later.

Q2: What engineering programs are suspended from 2027? Five programs are suspended for two years: Master/ Graduate Diploma/ Graduate Certificate in Transport, and Master of Professional Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering), Master of Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering).

Q3: When does the new Master of Sustainability start? The Master of Sustainability begins in Semester 1, 2027. It is a 96-credit program offered by the Faculty of Science.

Q4: Are there new majors in the Bachelor of Commerce? Yes, a new major in “Accounting, Governance and Regulation” is being introduced, pending CPA/CA ANZ accreditation. The HRM major is also seeking AHRI accreditation.

Q5: What is the welfare provider change for U18 students? From December 19, 2026, ISA becomes the sole approved welfare provider for U18 international students. The current PSC arrangement ends on December 18, 2026.

Q6: Are AHPRA English requirements changing now? No. The proposed changes are still at the proposal stage and have not been implemented. Students should continue meeting current requirements.

Sources and Data As Of

This article is based on official updates from the University of Sydney, communicated to education agents and partners. Key sources and dates:

University of Sydney 2026 July intake update (official communication)
2028 applications open: confirmed for most standard courses
Engineering suspensions: effective January 2027
Master of Sustainability: Semester 1, 2027 start
Business Bachelor updates: 2027 intake
SIUAES scholarship: 2027 applications now open
Welfare provider change: December 19, 2026
BUPA OSHC increase: following annual review (exact amount not specified)
AHPRA English changes: still under proposal, not in effect

Data as of: July 2026. All information subject to change. Verify with the University of Sydney or your education agent before making decisions.