Master of Actuarial Studies (Extension) (CRICOS course code 068778K) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This program is designed for students seeking advanced training in actuarial science, risk management, and quantitative finance — fields critical to Australia’s insurance, superannuation, and banking sectors. As one of the few extended actuarial masters in Australia, it offers deeper specialisation and additional coursework beyond a standard master’s degree. UNSW is a leading Group of Eight university located in Kensington, Sydney, consistently ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide. With over 60,000 students, including 20,000 international enrolments, UNSW provides a vibrant campus life and strong industry connections. Sydney’s cost of living is relatively high: indicative weekly expenses include A$350–600 for rent, A$80–150 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. However, the city offers excellent job opportunities for actuaries, with median salaries for actuarial analysts around A$90,000 per year. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — your trusted starting point for course research in Australia.
This course falls under the field of Insurance and Actuarial Studies (081103), within the broader Management and Commerce group. Students develop advanced skills in actuarial modelling, financial mathematics, statistics, and data analysis. Graduates are prepared for roles as actuaries, risk analysts, investment managers, and consultants in insurance, superannuation, and financial services. The curriculum typically covers probability theory, stochastic processes, survival models, loss distributions, and enterprise risk management. Unlike shorter master’s programs, the extension component allows for additional electives — such as machine learning for actuarial science or advanced derivatives — and a capstone project or dissertation. This depth aligns with the professional requirements for accreditation by the Actuaries Institute Australia, though students should verify specific recognition requirements directly with the institute or UNSW.
The Master of Actuarial Studies (Extension) is listed on the CRICOS register with a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). Study is offered full-time in English. It is a single qualification — not a dual degree — and there is no compulsory work component. The course does not include foundation studies; students are expected to have a relevant undergraduate background. UNSW typically delivers this program on-campus at its Kensington campus, with some subjects available online in blended mode. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student visa holders, including the mandated 48 hours per fortnight work limit during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. The course is classified as AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree (Coursework)), which is the highest non-research master’s level.
The indicative tuition fee for the full 2-year program is A$121,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000 (including student services and amenities). Total estimated cost: A$123,000. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500) are NOT included in this total. For reference, Sydney living costs (excluding tuition) are around A$25,000–30,000 per year. All fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always check the provider’s website for current fee schedules.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0–6.5) or equivalent English language test results. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) with a strong background in mathematics, statistics, or a related quantitative field. Some prior study in actuarial science or financial mathematics is advantageous, but not always mandatory. UNSW may recognise prior learning (RPL) or offer pathway programs if necessary — contact the university directly for the most accurate information. As this is a postgraduate course, foundation studies are generally not offered internally; however, bridging programs through UNSW Global may be available. All entry requirements are set by the institution and can change — always refer to UNSW’s official admissions page.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may choose to undertake internships or part-time work independently, subject to visa conditions and employer requirements. International student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. While not compulsory, gaining industry experience during or after the program enhances career prospects — especially in Sydney’s competitive actuarial job market.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb approximately 6 km southeast of Sydney’s CBD, easily accessible by light rail and bus. UNSW’s main campus hosts over 60,000 students, making it one of Australia’s largest universities. Sydney itself is home to more than 200,000 international students and over 10 CRICOS-registered universities, offering a rich academic and cultural environment. Public transport from Kensington to Central Station takes about 20 minutes, and the campus provides amenities such as libraries, sports facilities, and student accommodation. When considering this location, factor in Sydney’s relatively high rent and cost of living compared to other Australian cities.
International students enrolling in Master of Actuarial Studies (Extension) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and English proficiency. OSHC must be purchased for the entire visa duration — typical cost for a single student is around A$600–800 per year. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600. As part of the GTE requirement, you’ll need to demonstrate that your stay in Australia is primarily for study. International students have work rights (48 hours/fortnight during term) and are protected under the ESOS Act — ensuring course quality, refund policies, and grievance procedures. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Master of Actuarial Studies (Extension) at UNSW: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Browse courses on HeadStart Academy filtered by level, field, and location. Verify that UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) and this course (068778K) meet your goals. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit UNSW’s website (www.unsw.edu.au) to check entry requirements, submit your application with academic transcripts, English test scores, and supporting documents. Note application deadlines (typically September for February intake and March for July intake). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once offered a place, accept and pay any deposit to obtain your CoE. Then apply online for a Subclass 500 visa via the Department of Home Affairs, attaching your CoE, GTE statement, OSHC, and financial evidence. Plan to apply at least 8 weeks before course start.
Ready to advance your career in actuarial science? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy or contact UNSW directly for personalised advice.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in New South Wales →
Master of Actuarial Studies (Extension) 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.