If you have been feeling like everyone else has their life sorted and you are still trying to figure it out, you are not alone. Many students finish high school unsure of what to study, or realise after starting a degree that it does not feel right. Some take time off to work, while others simply need space to decide what they want.
The truth is that feeling “behind” is common, but it does not mean you are off track. It usually just means you need a different kind of beginning. One that gives you more confidence, more support and a clearer direction.
Most students feel this way. They just don’t say it.
You may think everyone around you has a perfect plan. A dream ATAR. A direct entry offer. A clear career goal.
In reality, a lot of students:
- Did not get the ATAR they hoped for
- Are unsure what degree is right for them
- Want a fresh start after a difficult school experience
Feel overwhelmed at the idea of jumping straight into university
These feelings are normal. They also do not define your future. What matters is what you do next.
A supported way to begin your uni journey
UNSW College gives students another way to enter UNSW Sydney. You will study university level subjects, use the same campus and facilities and build the skills you need to progress into a degree at UNSW Sydney.
The difference is in the support.
You will study in smaller classes, with more time to ask questions and engage with your teachers. You will learn alongside others who are also motivated to find their way, and you will be supported by staff who genuinely care about your progress.
Many students say this experience helped them build confidence before transitioning into larger university environments.
What you can study
Our Diplomas cover a range of study areas, including:
Each study area connects to related bachelor’s degrees at UNSW Sydney. Completed in just 12 months, our diplomas can provide entry into second year*, helping you explore your chosen field without losing time and while keeping your options open.
*Progression requirements apply.
More than just academic support
Starting at UNSW College means becoming part of a real community from day one.
You will have access to:
- A dedicated Student Success team
- Peer mentors who have been through the same journey
- Wellbeing and counselling support
- Social events and student clubs
- Study and life skills workshops
- Teachers who know your name
It is a university experience, but one designed to help you grow into it at your own pace.
Your timeline is not wrong
Some students go straight into a degree at 18. Others take a year to think, work, travel or reset. Some change course halfway through.
None of these paths are better than the others. They are simply different.
If you want to study at a world top 20 university like UNSW Sydney, but feel unsure, unprepared or like you missed your chance, you have not. There is still a clear way forward that allows you to start now, at your own pace, with people who will support you every step of the way.
Ready to take the first step?
You do not need everything figured out. The truth is: there is no single “right” way to start uni - only the way that works for you.
Latest articles
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™.
Diploma & Foundation Studies
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™ currently delivers Diplomas and Foundation Studies on behalf of UNSW Sydney - CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).
From 26 August 2024, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Diplomas under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
From 13 January 2025, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Foundation Studies under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
Pre-Masters Program & Academic English
UNSW College™ delivers the Pre-Masters Program and Academic English programs under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2025 UNSW Global Pty Limited.
UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582 trading as UNSW College™.
Foundation Studies, Academic English and Pre-Masters Program
UNSW College delivers its Foundation Studies, Academic English, and Pre-Masters Program under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
Diplomas
UNSW College delivers its UNSW College Diplomas under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education). UNSW College delivers UNSW Diplomas on behalf of UNSW Sydney under CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).
See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2025 UNSW Global Pty Limited.