Master of Actuarial Studies (CRICOS course code 051222G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year 8 months (~86 weeks). This program equips students with advanced analytical skills to assess financial risks and uncertainties, preparing them for careers in insurance, superannuation, investment, and banking. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 00098G), it meets Australian standards for international students. Whether you aim to become a qualified actuary or deepen your expertise in quantitative finance, this degree offers a rigorous curriculum aligned with industry expectations. UNSW, located in Kensington, Sydney, is a leading university with a strong reputation in business and economics.
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Master of Actuarial Studies (CRICOS course code 051222G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year 8 months (~86 weeks). The program falls under the field of education '0811 - Banking, Finance and Related Fields' with a specialisation in '081103 - Insurance and Actuarial Studies' (AQF Level 9). It is a single qualification course with no dual or combined award. The language of instruction is English. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G, Government), UNSW is authorised to enrol international students. This course does not include a mandatory work component. With Sydney being home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, students benefit from a vibrant metropolitan study environment.
This program provides a comprehensive grounding in actuarial techniques, probability, statistics, and financial mathematics. Students develop skills to model and manage financial risks, analyse data, and apply actuarial principles in real-world contexts. While specific syllabi are set by UNSW, graduates typically gain proficiency in areas such as life and general insurance, pensions, and investments. The coursework emphasises quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and ethical practice, aligned with global actuarial standards. At this AQF Level 9, students are expected to engage with advanced theoretical concepts and their practical applications, preparing them for professional actuarial exams and leadership roles in the finance sector.
The Master of Actuarial Studies is delivered over 1 year 8 months (~86 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This full-time program is designed for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500). The duration includes scheduled breaks and is indicative of the standard study period. The course is taught solely in English, and it is a single qualification with no foundation studies component. Students should plan their stay accordingly, considering that the course may be offered in different intakes. Always confirm the exact start dates and semester structure with UNSW directly.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative and set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW). As per the CRICOS register (April 2026), the estimated tuition is A$90,000. Non-tuition fees, including materials and services, are approximately A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$91,500. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students in Sydney should budget for living expenses: indicative weekly costs for rent ($300–$500), groceries ($80–$150), and public transport ($30–$50). For current fees, always visit the provider's website at www.unsw.edu.au.
Entry to the Master of Actuarial Studies typically requires a recognised bachelor's degree with a strong quantitative component. English language proficiency is essential: a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) is commonly expected. Students with non-business backgrounds may need to complete prerequisite subjects. UNSW may also consider relevant work experience or postgraduate studies. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but UNSW offers bridging programs for some fields. Since requirements vary, applicants should consult the university's admissions page. As a CRICOS-registered course, meeting these requirements is necessary to obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for visa purposes.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are dependent on the course being CRICOS-registered. Students are advised to check the Department of Home Affairs for current work limitations. While the Master of Actuarial Studies itself has no work requirement, internships or extracurricular professional experience can enhance employability.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW (postcode 2052). Kensington is an inner-eastern suburb of Sydney, approximately 6 km from the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse student population of over 200,000 international students from more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. Public transport to UNSW includes light rail, buses, and nearby train stations. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Kensington is $400–$600. Students can access university accommodation, homestays, or private rentals. For location-specific advice, explore our NSW study guide.
International students must hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. The visa allows full-time study and work rights as mentioned. Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. The Department of Home Affairs sets visa conditions; always check their website. As a resource, HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but does not replace professional migration advice. Refer to a registered MARA agent for personal cases. Student visa holders are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
Applying for the Master of Actuarial Studies at UNSW involves three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses like this Master of Actuarial Studies at UNSW. Ensure the course and provider are registered (CRICOS 051222G and 00098G). 2) Apply directly to UNSW – meet entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and complete the application by the deadline. UNSW may have multiple intakes. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge fees or receive commissions.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy, or contact UNSW directly for application details.
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Master of Actuarial Studies is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.