Assumed knowledge and bridging courses
Start your UNSW journey with confidence.
What is assumed knowledge?
Assumed knowledge is the level of understanding we expect you to have before starting a course. Some degrees and first‑year courses expect you to have a certain level of knowledge in specific subjects, such as Mathematics Advanced. This helps you engage with the course content and sets you up to succeed in your studies.
Is assumed knowledge a prerequisite?
No, assumed knowledge isn’t a prerequisite. At UNSW, we don’t have formal subject prerequisites for any of our degrees, we have assumed knowledge.
Set yourself up for success at UNSW
While not meeting the assumed knowledge for your chosen degree will not impact your consideration for admission to UNSW, we strongly recommend taking bridging courses or alternate preparation. This will fill in any knowledge gaps you may have and best prepare you for success in your degree.
You'll find the assumed knowledge requirements listed within our degree pages.
Frequently asked questions about assumed knowledge
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Yes, you may be accepted into a UNSW degree without having studied the listed assumed knowledge – it is not a prerequisite for applying. However, without assumed knowledge you may start off at a disadvantage and find yourself behind in your first year. Undertaking bridging courses can help you fill the gaps and prepare for your studies.
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Yes, many UNSW degrees have assumed knowledge subjects. You can find out whether your chosen degree has assumed knowledge by referencing the “entry requirements” on degree pages.
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If you don’t have assumed knowledge, we highly recommend completing a bridging course to ensure you’re equipped with the right knowledge to excel in your first year studies.
What are bridging courses?
Bridging courses are in-depth short courses, designed to strengthen your knowledge in key areas required for your first year of study. They'll help you meet the level of assumed knowledge in these subject areas and be prepared for your studies.
How do bridging courses work?
Bridging courses help strengthen your knowledge in the key areas required for your first year of study. The bridging courses will cover key topics, and may include lectures, tutorials or laboratory work.
What bridging courses are available at UNSW?
UNSW Science offers bridging courses in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Frequently asked questions about bridging courses
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It costs $380 to do a bridging course at UNSW.
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To apply for a bridging course, you’ll first need to meet the eligibility. Visit our bridging courses page to see our eligibility requirements and find the directions to apply.
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Bridging courses generally run for 3-4 weeks, but this is subject to change. You can find the dates for each course on our bridging courses page.
Have a question?
Looking for guidance on assumed knowledge and bridging courses? Speak to one of our friendly Future Student Advisers.