Semester 1 begins on Monday 1 March 2027. It’s the year’s first major intake and a great time to take your next step. Explore certificates, diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate study, and find out why Swinburne is the right move in 2027. 

Key dates and deadlines

Semester 1 classes begin on Monday 1 March 2027, and applications close on Wednesday 24 February.

Are you an international student? Find your key dates and deadlines.

Please note: TAFE and UniLink courses have different start dates and application deadlines, so be sure to view the full range of intake dates.

Start dates and intakes
  • Swinburne Study Expo

    Tuesday 24 November, Hawthorn campus

    See what studying at Swinburne could look like – compare courses, meet academics and get your questions answered in person. 

    • Browse and compare courses
    • Speak with academics and teaching staff 
    • Get application and transfer advice 
    • Learn about fees, WIL, pathways and facilities 

Find your course

Search by study area or keyword – or download a course guide to explore the full range of Swinburne’s courses in one place.
 

Browse courses by study area

Why Swinburne?

Rated five stars by our graduates

Our students rank us #1 in Victoria for overall study experience and teaching quality.1

Our postgrads are paid more than their peers

Why? Our courses are co-created with industry professionals, so you graduate with the skills employers want.2

Our undergrads earn more, too 

The median salary of our undergraduates now in full-time employment is higher than any other uni in Melbourne.3

Cutting-edge tech and facilities

With over A$250 million invested in labs and equipment, Swinburne gives you access to industry-grade facilities and technology.

How Swinburne gets you on your way

See how Swinburne goes beyond the traditional university experience, connecting what you learn with the industries, technologies and challenges shaping the world.

From classroom to career: Pamidu’s story

Pamidu’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Professional) helped him take his engineering skills from the classroom to industry, building experience and connections before graduation. His story is one example of how Swinburne’s industry-integrated approach can connect learning with career opportunities.

Guaranteed in every bachelor degree, Swinburne’s award-winning Work Integrated Learning program (WIL) gives you opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings. From vocational education placements to postgraduate industry-linked projects, you’ll gain experience that makes you stand out in your field.

Explore more student stories
How Pamidu's professional degree launched his engineering career

1 in 3 land a job offer after their placement

Our placements build real skillls and connections that can land you a job before you graduate.4 

2,500+ industry partners and counting

Build real connections with organisations across every sector, from local names like Richmond Football Club to global brands like Deloitte.

From workplace to whiteboard: meet Professor Virginia Kilborn

Swinburne’s academics bring real industry experience directly into your learning. Professor Virginia Kilborn has taught Swinburne’s astronomy programs since 2006, helping shape space education programs while also supervising postgraduate researchers. As Chief Scientist, she brings that industry connection to quantum research – connecting real businesses with the work happening at Swinburne.

Academics who practise what they teach

Learn from experts active in their field, bringing current industry knowledge and experience into your learning.

Among the world’s most-cited researchers 

As of 2025, ten Swinburne academics have been named on Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers list.5

From campus to production line: inside the Factory of the Future

With more than $250 million invested in industry-grade equipment and facilities, Swinburne gives you the chance to learn with the tools reshaping industry. At the Factory of the Future, Professor Prem Jayaraman’s team partners directly with Australian manufacturers on AI, automation and robotics – one example of how Swinburne’s research facilities connect straight to industry.

Specialist labs and facilities

Learn in industry-grade facilities, from OzGrav to our single-site Neuroimaging Facility and the Factory of the Future.

Industry-standard tools, from day one

Get free access to Adobe Creative Cloud, no matter what you study.

Set yourself up for Semester 1

You’ve seen what Swinburne offers and how it can help you build relevant skills and experience. Now explore your options, get personalised advice and find your next step for Semester 1 2027. 

  • Get free, tailored advice

    A man with glasses and a Swinburne lanyard having a conversation with a young woman in a denim jacket, both seated in a modern, open space, with the man gesturing towards a Swinburne course guide booklet.

    Have questions about a course or your application? Book a one-on-one with a Swinburne course and applications adviser to talk through your options and next steps.

  • The Swinburne Giveaway Giveaway

    Fancy a little extra help getting started? Enter for your chance to win $1,000 for you and $1,000 for a cause you care about.

Applying for Semester 1

Scholarships

A scholarship could help with the cost of studying. Explore what’s available and find out if you’re eligible for support with your Semester 1 studies.

Explore scholarships

A scholarship could help with the cost of studying. Explore what’s available and find out if you’re eligible for support with your Semester 1 studies.

Explore scholarships

Frequently asked questions

Semester 1 2027 classes begin on Monday 1 March 2027. Some vocational education and UniLink courses may have different start dates, so check the relevant course page for details.

Explore all start dates and intakes

The deadline to apply for higher education Semester 1 is Wednesday 24 February 2027. Please note that application deadlines vary by course and study level, so check the key dates for your chosen course and apply early to allow time for any additional requirements.

Explore all start dates and intakes

Find a course, check its entry requirements and application dates, and then submit your application through the relevant application process. If you need help, you can book a one-on-one with a course and applications adviser.

Find a course

If you’re offered a place, follow the instructions in your offer letter to accept it, and then complete your enrolment using our online guide. Check your offer and the enrolment information for the steps and deadlines that apply to you. 

Accepting your offer

Swinburne has several university intakes throughout the year, so you may be able to start your course at different times. Available intakes vary by course, and some courses may offer options such as Summer or Winter Term as well as Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Check your chosen course page to find out when it starts or get in touch with us for help.

Explore all start dates and intakes
Vocational Education (VE):

Includes pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, traineeships, trades, certificates and diplomas. VE offers practical, skills-based training for a range of careers and further study.

UniLink:

A UniLink diploma can provide a path into undergraduate study. It may suit you if you don’t meet the entry requirements for your preferred bachelor degree.

Undergraduate (UG):

Includes bachelor degrees, double degrees and associate degrees. Bachelor degrees commonly take three years, while associate degrees commonly take two. Double degrees let you study two disciplines and graduate with two qualifications. Course durations vary.

Postgraduate (PG):

Includes graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, master degrees and doctoral degrees. Many postgraduate courses require a previous degree, although some offer entry based on relevant experience. Depending on the course, you may be able to exit a master degree early with a graduate certificate or diploma.

Swinburne offers alternative admission routes such as UniLink diplomas, our Foundation Program and Fee-Free UniReady.

For more information, visit our page on general entry requirements.

You can apply to transfer to Swinburne from another university or change courses. Your options and the application process depend on your circumstances and the course you want to study. Browse our courses or book an appointment to speak with a course and applications adviser.

Find out more about transferring to Swinburne
International students:

You may need your current education provider to approve your transfer before applying at Swinburne. Most education providers call this a ‘release’ from your current course.

If you are a sponsored student, you must apply for a release from your current provider and include a letter from your government sponsor supporting your course transfer.

If you are transferring to Swinburne from an international university or institution, a release is not required.

Contact your current institution to find out what is required in your situation.

If you have previous study or relevant work experience, you may be able to receive academic credit – also called ‘advanced standing’ – to help you complete your course sooner. To be considered, you will need to complete an application form that is relevant to your situation.

Find out more

Swinburne offers scholarships for new and continuing students. Eligibility and application requirements vary, so explore the available scholarships to find out which ones you may be able to apply for.

Explore scholarships

Tuition fees vary depending on what you study, the units you take and whether you’re a local or international student. Check your course page for fees and visit our dedicated fees page for more information.

For tailored advice about course costs, government subsidies or scholarships you may be eligible for, book a one-on-one appointment.

Keep exploring

Semester 1 is the first major intake of the year, beginning on Monday 1 March 2027. You can start a diploma, undergraduate or postgraduate degree. Find out why Swinburne is the right move in 2027.

On this page:

Key dates and deadlines

The last dates to apply for Semester 1 2027 are:

  • Offshore international students: Friday 8 January 2027

  • Onshore international students: Friday 12 February 2027

View all Swinburne start dates and intakes

Applying for Semester 1

  • 1. Find your course

    Browse courses and find the one that’s right for you, from diplomas to postgraduate degrees.

  • 2. Check entry requirements

    Make sure you meet the academic and English-language requirements for your chosen course.

  • 3. Find education agent

    Speak with a Swinburne-authorised education agent near you for help with your visa, course application, and guidance on living and studying in Australia.

  • 4. Apply

    Submit your application directly or through an education agent if required in your country.  

  • 5. Accept and enrol

    Received an offer? Follow our guide to accept it. After that, you’ll need to enrol in your course units before classes begin on Monday 1 March 2027.

Thinking of transferring to Swinburne?

Depending on where you study now, you may need approval from your current university before transferring. We can walk you through what to do. 

Find out how to transfer
Start your journey with a course guide

Browse every course and study area at Swinburne and get practical information on life in Melbourne and moving to Australia – everything you need to make your decision with confidence.

Download a course guide

Find your course

Search by study area or keyword – or download a course guide to explore the full range of Swinburne’s courses in one place.
 

Browse courses by study area

  • Swinburne Study Expo

    Tuesday 24 November, Hawthorn campus

    See what studying at Swinburne could look like – compare courses, meet academics and get your questions answered in person. 

    • Browse and compare courses
    • Speak with academics and teaching staff 
    • Get application and transfer advice 
    • Learn about fees, WIL, pathways and facilities 

Scholarships

When you apply to study at Swinburne, you are automatically considered for any available international scholarships. If you are eligible, this could help reduce the cost of your studies.

Explore scholarships

When you apply to study at Swinburne, you are automatically considered for any available international scholarships. If you are eligible, this could help reduce the cost of your studies.

Explore scholarships

Graduate stories

See how international students from around the world are building their careers with Swinburne, in Australia and back home.

  • Jagannatha's story

    International student Jagannatha (Master of Professional Engineering)

    International student story | India

    Master of Professional Engineering | Engineering

    Robotics student Jagannatha enjoys giving back to Swinburne’s international students.

  • Thao's story

    International student Thao (Bachelor of Computer Science)

    International student story | Vietnam

    Bachelor of Computer Science (Professional) | Information Technology

    International student Thao highlights her reasons to study computer science at Swinburne.

  • Erina's story

    International student Erina (Bachelor of Design - Communication Design - Honours)

    International student story | Indonesia

    Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (Honours) | Design

    Energetic Erina talks about all the ways she’s gathering experience for her career.

  • Sachi's story

    International student Sachi (Master of Business Information System)

    International student story | Sri Lanka

    Master of Business Information Systems | Information Technology

    Getting a qualification in information technology is an excellent move for international student Sachi.

  • Wendy's story

    Wendy, a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Professional) student from China

    International student story | China

    Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Professional) | Engineering

    Wendy graduated with more than two years of real industry experience on her resume.

  • Chinmayi's story

    International student Chinmayi (Master of Science - Network Systems)

    International student story | India

    Master of Science (Network Systems) | Science

    With a fascination of internet networks, international student Chinmayi is living her dream.

  • Alex's story

    International student Alex (Bachelor of Business)

    International student story | Myanmar

    Bachelor of Business (Majoring in Finance) | Business

    International student Alex is creating a resume employers will want to chat about.

  • Florentina’s story

    International student Florentina (Master of Design)

    International student story | Indonesia

    Master of Design | Design

    International student Florentina has fully embraced on-campus life at Swinburne.

Why Swinburne?

Rated five stars by our graduates

Our students rank us #1 in Victoria for overall study experience and teaching quality.1

Our postgrads are paid more than their peers

Our courses are made with industry experts, which means you’ll graduate with the skills employers want.2

Your people, your place

Swinburne’s vibrant community is here to help you thrive in and out of the classroom. Join a club. Rep a student org. Find your people.

Cutting-edge tech

Swinburne has invested more than A$250 million in labs and equipment, giving you access to industry-grade facilities and technology.

How Swinburne helps you reach your goals

Every course helps you move closer to where you want to be – here’s how.

From classroom to career: Pamidu’s story

Pamidu’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Professional) took him from the classroom into industry. He built skills and connections before he graduated. His story is one of many examples of how Swinburne can turn your learning into a career.

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is guaranteed in every bachelor degree. You’ll also find opportunities for real industry experience across other study levels, from vocational education placements to postgraduate industry projects.

How Pamidu's professional degree launched his engineering career

2,500+ industry partners and counting

Build real connections with organisations across every sector, from local names like Deloitte to global brands like Siemens.

50,000+ work experiences delivered every year

Thousands of Swinburne students gain hands-on experience through placements, internships and industry projects each year.

From workplace to whiteboard: meet Professor Virginia Kilborn

Swinburne’s academics bring real industry experience directly into your learning. Professor Virginia Kilborn has taught Swinburne’s astronomy programs since 2006, helping shape space education programs while also supervising postgraduate researchers. As Chief Scientist, she brings that industry connection to quantum research – connecting real businesses with the work happening at Swinburne.

Academics who practise what they teach

Learn from experts active in their field, bringing current industry knowledge and experience into your learning.

Among the world’s most-cited researchers 

As of 2025, ten Swinburne academics have been named on Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers list.4

From campus to production line: inside the Factory of the Future

With more than $250 million invested in industry-grade equipment and facilities, Swinburne gives you the chance to learn with the tools reshaping industry. At the Factory of the Future, Professor Prem Jayaraman’s team partners directly with Australian manufacturers on AI, automation and robotics – one example of how Swinburne’s research facilities connect straight to industry.

Australia’s first Adobe Creative Campus

Get Adobe Creative Cloud products for free while you study at Swinburne.

Specialist labs and facilities

Learn in industry-grade facilities, from OzGrav to our single-site Neuroimaging Facility and the Factory of the Future.

Frequently asked questions

Want to study a Foundation Year, UniLink, undergraduate or postgraduate course?

You are an international student if you are: 

  • not an Australian or a New Zealand citizen 
  • not an Australian permanent resident
     
Want to study a vocational education (TAFE) course? 

You are an international student if you are: 

  • not an Australian citizen or permanent resident 
  • not an East Timorese asylum seeker 
  • not a Temporary Protection Visa (TPV) holder
     

You are also considered an international student if you are on a temporary visa, such as a student visa, bridging visa or business visa. 

Swinburne welcomes transfers from other universities. You may need approval from your current education provider before you apply. This is often called a ‘release’. Contact your current institution to find out what you need to do.

Learn more about transferring to Swinburne

To study at Swinburne, you need to meet the academic and English language requirements for your chosen course. These may include an equivalent overseas qualification and a minimum level of English. Some courses may also ask for a Pearson Test of English (PTE) score.

Check entry requirements for your country and course

When you apply to study at Swinburne, we automatically consider you for any available international scholarships. If your application is successful, we’ll let you know if you’re eligible for a scholarship in your offer letter.

Learn more about scholarships for international students
Vocational Education (VE):

Includes pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, traineeships, trades, certificates and diplomas. VE offers practical, skills-based training for a range of careers and further study.

UniLink:

A UniLink diploma can provide a path into undergraduate study. It may suit you if you don’t meet the entry requirements for your preferred bachelor degree.

Undergraduate (UG):

Includes bachelor degrees, double degrees and associate degrees. Bachelor degrees commonly take three years, while associate degrees commonly take two. Double degrees let you study two disciplines and graduate with two qualifications. Course durations vary.

Postgraduate (PG):

Includes graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, master degrees and doctoral degrees. Many postgraduate courses require a previous degree, although some offer entry based on relevant experience. Depending on the course, you may be able to exit a master degree early with a graduate certificate or diploma.

Asylum seekers and refugees can study at Swinburne. We offer support such as the Swinburne Welcome Scholarship and other financial help.

If you have – or are applying for – a humanitarian, protection or refugee visa (or hold a bridging visa for one of those), you may be eligible for fee waivers, Free TAFE in priority courses, or other scholarships.

We can help make your application easier. Call us or visit campus to talk about your options and complete your application. We offer clear information and one-to-one support, so you know what to expect.

Learn more about the process and eligibility

Absolutely – you can find stories about our students’ experiences across our website, from placement and internship experiences to studying abroad, international student experiences and alumni success.

Keep exploring