Doctor of Philosophy (Arts and Social Sciences)

IBT-INDICATOR
TOEFL - IBT score
A minimum result of 85 overall including a minimum result of 17 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 19 in Writing
IELTS-INDICATOR
IELTS score
A minimum result of 6.5 overall and a minimum result of 6.0 in each band
PTE-INDICATOR
Pearsons Test of English
A minimum result of 61 overall and a minimum result of 54 in each band

1. Choose a course

Use our course search to browse our wide range of courses. Use the filters to search by degree level and area of interest, then click on a course to find out more about: 

• what you'll study
• admissions criteria
• application deadlines
• potential career paths. 

You might want to bookmark the course page, as you'll be referring back to it as you prepare your application.

Inherent requirements

When choosing a course, you should see if it has any inherent requirements (this will be noted on the course page). These usually apply for courses that are preparing you for a career where you will be working closely with people or animals.

They aren't assessable admissions criteria, but are required for you to successfully complete the course. Researching the inherent requirements will allow you to make an informed decision about the course/career.

2. Check your eligibility

For all courses, you will need to demonstrate that you: 

• meet our English language requirements. If you have completed a recognised English language test, the required score can be found on the right hand side of the course page (found in step 1).

For all undergraduate courses, you will need to demonstrate that you:

• have studied in or completed a recognised qualification with the required grades. Refer to the admission guides for an indicative required score for some overseas secondary education qualifications
• 2024 Admission Guide (for international students) (pdf, 179KB)

For all postgraduate courses, you will need to demonstrate that you: 

• have completed a recognised tertiary qualification. Details can be found on the specific course page and could include previous study in the same field, or an advertised minimum GPA.

You should also check the course page for any additional admissions criteria. This may include: 

• a prerequisite, such as previous studies in mathematics
• an interview
• a portfolio
• assumed knowledge
• relevant professional experience.

3. Gather your documents

We require official documents to support your application, including a scanned copy of your passport identification page.

Other documents you may need include:

• English language results
• academic transcripts
• degree certificates (testamurs)
• scholarship documentation
• marriage/change of name certificate.

If your course requires a supplementary application form, this will be listed on the course page. 

Documents submitted in a language other than English must be accompanied by a complete English translation made by an accredited translator with a government body or the Registrar of the issuing institution.

Applicants from the People's Republic of China may be required to provide a China Higher Education Student Information and Career Center (CHESICC) verification of their academic documents.

If you are applying for a student visa, the University reserves the right to request additional information regarding the government's genuine temporary entrant requirement. This may be requested after your application is submitted, and could include an additional application form seeking clarification about your personal circumstances and/or an interview.

4. Check your finances

Before applying, you should understand the fees you will need to pay. These include:

• course fees, found on the specific course page
• additional fees and costs.

You should also research financial support options that may be available to you. We have a wide range of scholarships available for international students, and some countries also provide education loans to their citizens.

5. Submit your application

Apply directly

Most international students can apply directly to the University. To do so, select the 'Apply now' button on your course page to commence your application, and follow the prompts. 

This short video provides an overview of the application form. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our regional experts, who can provide personalised advice. 

To submit your application, you will need to pay an application processing fee.

If you are applying with the New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA Level 3), you may apply direct to the University or via UAC.

Apply through an authorised agent

Some students choose to apply through an authorised University of Sydney agent, for assistance with the university application and visa arrangements. Please note that only agents listed on our website are authorised to represent us.

Apply through UAC

You will need to apply through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC), if you are an undergraduate student studying:

• a current Australian Year 12 qualification (eg NSW Higher School Certificate) in or outside Australia, or
• a current International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma in Australia.

If you are applying with the New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA Level 3), you may apply via UAC or direct to the University.

Apply for Sciences Po Dual Degree

If you are applying for a Sciences Po Dual Degree, you need to apply directly to the University of Sydney (even if you are applying through UAC for your other preferences).