FAQs

Top 3 frequently asked questions

Question 1:
How many UNSW Co-op Scholarships will be offered next year?

The number of UNSW Co-op Scholarships offered is directly dependent on the number of sponsors who choose to participate next year. We will let you know the number & names of the sponsor companies for your particular Program at the Interview Briefing Day, prior to any interviews taking place.

Question 2:
What ATAR do I need to achieve to be eligible for a Co-op Scholarship?

The academic requirement for entry to the Co-op program is a minimum ATAR of 96 (or equivalent). However, if entry to the specific program is higher, students must meet this award requirement without the assistance of bonus points (except EAS).

For example: Entry to the Bachelor of Actuarial Studies Co-op programs in 2023 is 97.5 (or equivalent). This means that the applicant needs to achieve a 97.5 ATAR with no adjustment factors (except EAS). So if they got 96, but the cut-off was 97.5, then their conditional offer for a Co-op Scholarship will lapse.

Question 3:
How are Co-op scholars selected?

Following a review of written applications, selection is by in person interview held with academics and representatives from the sponsor companies. Students selected at the interview stage will receive a conditional offer that is pending until ATARs and cut-offs are released.

See: Who should apply?

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About the Co-op Program
How many UNSW Co-op Scholarships will be offered next year?

The number of UNSW Co-op Scholarships offered is directly dependent on the number of sponsors who choose to participate next year. We will let you know the number & names of the sponsor companies for your particular Program at the Interview Briefing Day, prior to any interviews taking place.

What is Recommended /Assumed Knowledge?

'Recommended Knowledge' is the level of qualification we suggest students need to be a successful Co-op scholar in a particular field. This is generally at or above the level of 'Assumed Knowledge' which is the level the University specifies as desirable to study a particular course. The assumed knowledge requirements are listed on the UNSW degree pages.

Students who do not have the respective level of assumed/recommended knowledge are not prevented from enrolling or applying but may be placed at a considerable disadvantage.

The assumed knowledge for all programs offered by the UNSW Business School is Mathematics. General Mathematics is not considered adequate entry to programs at UNSW.

To find out more about UNSW assumed knowledge, feel free to explore this link.

How are Co-op scholars selected?

Following a review of written applications, selection is by in person interview held with academics and representatives from the sponsor companies. Students selected at the interview stage will receive a conditional offer that is pending until ATARs and cut-offs are released.

See: Who should apply?

What ATAR do I need to achieve to be eligible for a Co-op Scholarship?

The academic requirement for entry to the Co-op program is a minimum ATAR of 96 (or equivalent). However, if entry to the specific program is higher, students must meet this award requirement without the assistance of bonus points (except EAS).

For example: Entry to the Bachelor of Actuarial Studies Co-op programs in 2023 is 97.5 (or equivalent). This means that the applicant needs to achieve a 97.5 ATAR with no adjustment factors (except EAS). So if they got 96, but the cut-off was 97.5, then their conditional offer for a Co-op Scholarship will lapse.

Can I study a dual degree with the UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship?

The Co-op Scholarship Program is designed for students doing a single degree (with either a double OR a single major), who want to combine their study with a number of Industry Training Experience placements, to round out their career development & professional experience. Traditionally, we have not allowed Co-op Program students to pair a dual degree with their Co-op Program because it further extended their time at University (Co-op scholars already spend one additional year at University to accommodate their placements) and because our sponsor companies consistently tell us that the greatest value to be derived from the Co-op Program comes from the Industry Training Experiences and the professional development sessions we run for the students.

However, it is an undeniable fact that as students try to prepare for a very flexible career future, more and more are wanting to enrol in dual degrees at university. We cannot ignore these trends, particularly in some fields of study and therefore, the Co-op Program is exploring a number of ways that students may be able to complete Co-op Program requirements and also do a dual degree:

  1. Accepting a UNSW Co-op Scholarship offer is conditional upon you securing a place and enrolling in the appropriate SINGLE DEGREE at UNSW. If later you wish to explore a dual degree option, you can discuss the possibility with the Co-op Scholar Manager & your Academic Co-ordinator. The decision whether or not you are able to undertake a dual degree would depend upon approval from the sponsor(s), the marks you achieve in your Uni courses, and whether studying the dual degree would adversely impact upon your commitments to the Co-op Program, particularly your commitment to fulfilling all Industry Training Experience placements. Please note that dual degrees with Law cannot be studied under the Co-op Program due to conflicts with the Industry Training Experience placement schedule. It is important to note that Co-op Programs do allow students the opportunity to do DOUBLE MAJORS; that is, to combine a major in the chosen field of study with a major/minor in a broad range of other discipline
  2. The Co-op office will continue to explore ways to expand selected dual degree opportunities for high achieving students. Please do contact us if you have further questions.
Is HSC Plus recognised by the Co-op Program?

HSC Plus bonus points will not be considered for Co-op ATAR Requirement (see below for details on what type of points will be considered).

What type of adjustment factors will be considered for the purposes of my Co-op Scholarship application?

For the purposes of assessing Co-op Program scholarship eligibility, the Co-op Program will not consider any adjustment factors (previously known as 'Bonus Points') EXCEPT  (EAS) ACCESS Scheme applicants

What is the (EAS) ACCESS Scheme?

The Educational Access Scheme is an alternative entry scheme available to Australian school leavers whose Year 11 and/or Year 12 studies have been seriously affected by circumstances beyond their control. The types of disadvantage considered include disability, financial hardship, language difficulties, rural isolation and chronic illness. Further information is available by contacting the Admissions Office on 02 9385 3228, or visit their website.

Can I accept more than one scholarship?

A student who accepts a UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship and is eligible for a Scientia Scholarship may accept both; however they will receive a $5,000 once off Scientia "bonus payment" in first year only. These students will remain eligible for all the other benefits of the Scientia Scholarship.

Where awarded, the student is permitted to accept an Academic Achievement Award (AAA) in conjunction with the UNSW Co-op Program. If applying for other scholarships, you will need to check those scholarship conditions. If you are then offered other scholarships, you will need to advise the Co-op Program before accepting a Co-op Scholarship offer.

Can I defer my UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship?

No. Whilst you can defer your university enrolment, you cannot defer a UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship. You can re-apply the following year but you must complete another application and be available for interview. 

(See: Can I still apply if I decide to take a gap year?)

What is the Faculty of Engineering Rural Scholarship?

Please note Rural Engineering scholarship applications are no longer via the Co-op application portal. There will be a number of scholarships offered to students who live in rural and isolated areas of Australia who are interested in undertaking a program in the Faculty of Engineering at UNSW.

For more details on the scholarship see: Rural Engineering and Other UNSW Scholarships.

Am I eligible for the Co-op Program?

To check whether you can apply, please see Co-op's eligibility criteria.

 

How will UNSW 3+ affect the Co-op Scholarship?

From 2019, UNSW is transitioning into a new academic calendar with three terms in a year, called UNSW 3+. The normal study load remains at 8 courses a year and a full time study load is 6 courses spread over the three terms.

For Co-op scholars, this affects the structure of the Program; i.e. when they are studying or on Placement. For more information, check the Sample Study Outlines on the Program pages.

Click here more information on the UNSW 3+.

How much is the Co-op Scholarship?

From 2024, scholars receive $21,600* per year for 4 years of their Co-op Program paid in fortnightly instalments. The scholarship money will be paid directly to the scholar’s bank account and can be used to support the scholar throughout their time at university, pay HECS or accommodation fees, etc. The UNSW Co-op Program scholarship has been deemed by the Tax Commissioner to be a tax-exempt award.

*Mining Engineering scholars will receive $12,350pa in tax-exempt scholarship payments. Unlike other programs, Mining Engineering scholars will be paid by the sponsor company while on IT placement at a minimum wage of $719.20 per week, which is taxable.

About the Application Process
What is the closing date for applications?

In 2023, Co-op applications will close Saturday 30 September 2023. (Check other key dates). 

Can I make a late application?

No. All applications must be submitted online or received at the UNSW Co-op Office by 11:59pm on the 30th September.

Do I need a UAC number to start my application?

No. If you do not yet have a UAC Number, please use your Board of Studies/IB candidate/interstate student number, with a leading "1" to make up to 9 digits. 

The formatting of my application looks funny, is paragraph formatting allowed?

We have removed additional formatting to keep the applications neatly fitting on the number of pages allowed for the application.  Remember, every applicant is required to meet the same limits. We are looking for well-rounded students and we assess your application based on your answers given in all questions.

Are New Zealand citizens eligible for the Co-op Program?

New Zealand (NZ) citizens are eligible to apply to the Co-op Program and the Co-op Program has had successful NZ applicants awarded a scholarship in the past.

Completion of National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 3 is the equivalent of completing the standard Australian Year 12 program and normally satisfies the pre-requisite for application. Your NCEA Level 3 results would be converted to an ATAR and the Co-op office would need to confirm a conditional offer late pending the NCEA results release date.

You can find more information here: http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entra...

Please note that if you are successful with your application, you are expected to attend an interview at the end of November at the UNSW Kensington Campus.

Please also refer to this link: http://studyassist.gov.au/sites/studyassist/helpfulresources/pages/faqs-nz for the latest advice on a range of Australian Government reforms that may affect NZ students studying in Australia.

If I want to apply for a combination of Programs in Business, Science or Engineering do I use the same application form?

Yes, however you can only list a maximum of three (3) programs. Just nominate the programs in order of preference and only list those you are seriously interested in studying.

Can I update my login / UAC number?

Yes. Before you submit your application online, it is your responsibility to ensure that your Login ID is correctly updated to your UAC number.

To do this, simply go to the "update login and/or password" section, enter your UAC number and SAVE.

What if I'm from interstate, or studying an IB/OP/SAT, or an Australian or NZ Citizen studying overseas and my academic results don't match the field titles?

Results/positions must be entered as they appear on your report card(s). We acknowledge that the types of grading can vary from state to state, even school to school. As long as you write an explanation, you should be fine.

For those not from NSW, or who do not sit trial exams (e.g. QLD), enter the results from your yearly report card and write an explanation of those results in the space (free text box) provided. If you don't have anything to enter in the field, put a dash "-" and write an explanation.

For NZ citizens, the column headings won't quite fit the NCEA format, so just enter them as they appear in your report cards and explain what they mean in the "Results explanation" box.

Remember, the purpose of these questions is for us to see how you perform in the subject area. You should advise us the most current results you have (eg. if you don't have your Yr12 results, then at least provide us with your Yr11 results) and write an explanation. 

Which UAC preferences do I include in my application?

In the Educational Background section, please enter your UAC preferences as they appear at the time of your submission. This includes the UAC codes for all degrees and institutions, not just UNSW.

How many Co-op program preferences should I include?

You can apply for up to three (3) programs in your application, but only apply for programs you are actually interested in studying and pursuing as a career. Nominate the programs in order of preference.

My activity doesn't appear in the list, does that mean it's not important?

In question one, part A, we have tried to list many of the activities/achievements that we know you may be involved in.  This list will continue to grow over time as we take note of new activities that students are involved in. To view the list, simply type in a key word to narrow the results, scroll down the list and select the relevant activity.

In question one, part B, we have given you the opportunity to list any other activities you are involved in or achievements you have had.  If your activity isn't listed in part A it doesn't mean it's not important, we just haven't included it in our main list yet!

What kind of referees do I need to list in the application?

You can choose anyone who can support your application and provide feedback about you. Your referees can be someone from your school, the community, or your employer.

Do you have sample answers that I can look at?

No, we do not provide sample answers.  The first question asks you to list activities and dates.  After that, the best thing to do is to focus on your activities, achievements and learnings (particularly in the last 2-3 years) and describe (not list) what you gained out of them.

Remember, you want to differentiate yourself - you don't want to simply make your application the same as everyone elses!

You might like to take a look at Co-op's eligibility criteria and application questions to help you prepare. 

I want to practice my answers, where can I get a copy of the questions?

You can download the Co-op Brochure and see what type of questions you might be asked. For the exact questions we suggest that you register in the application system and take a copy of the questions to a word document - don't forget to note the character limits (which include spaces) for each question.

Do character limits include spaces?

Yes, character limits do include spaces.  Remember, every applicant is required to meet the same limits and we are unable to increase them.

Do I need to register separately for the UNSW Co-op Program and for other Scholarships at UNSW?

After registering through the UNSW Co-op Program online system, applicants can apply for other UNSW Scholarships.  Simply login and select "search & apply" on the left hand menu below the heading "other UNSW scholarships" (on the Co-op online system). This means that applicants need only register and complete all personal/contact/education background details once and have these details carry across the UNSW Scholarships system so you can apply for any other scholarships you are eligible for.

Does the system spell check my answers?

No. We recommend that you draft your responses in a word processing program, spell and grammar check them and then copy into the online system.  It is your responsibility to ensure that you are happy with your application before you submit.

What supporting documentation is considered, should I send you my resume?

We will only consider the contents of your application form (including your answers to the questions and academic results), your Schools Assessment/GAP Year Explanation and your video snapshot.

Please do not forward any other documentation as it will be disregarded.

What sort of photo should I include?

The photograph must be recent (within the last 12 months) and a passport size/clear head and shoulders, solo shot (ie portrait, not group photo).  You might like to scan in your school photo.

You can only upload a JPEG/.jpg file (1MB) with an aspect ratio of 4:3 (ie Width/Horizontal=180, and Height/Vertical=240 pixels). You can use Microsoft Paint to resize an image.

When is my Co-op application due?

You will need to complete all sections of your application and submit online by 11:59pm on 30 September. Note: There will be no technical support after 5pm. To avoid the system crashing, it is best that you don't leave it to the last minute and submit your application BEFORE the deadline.

When is my Co-op Application Schools Assessment due?

You must allow adequate time for your School to complete your Schools Assessment. Generally schools require the Schools Assessment page to be given to them in late August early September, please discuss with your School and keep in mind that School Holidays are on at the time your application is due. Your application will not be considered complete without it. 

Can I still submit my application if my Supporting Documentation (Schools Assessment Page*) has not been completed?

You can submit your application prior to your school submitting your SAP; however, your submitted application will not be considered complete until your Schools Assessment Page has been submitted. The nominated teacher can submit the SAP after the application deadline.

* If you have taken a GAP year, the School Assessment Page is replaced with your GAP explanation page. You will not be required to nominate your school; however you must submit a GAP year explanation in its place.

What happens after I submit?

After you submit you will not be able to make further changes to your application. You will receive an email confirming receipt of your application. We will be in touch regarding the outcome of your application and whether you have been selected for interview. Interview offers will be sent via email on Thursday 10th November.

The webpage doesn't seem to appear correctly or the functions don't seem to work.

There's a few things you can do first: 

  1. Restart your computer.
  2. Use a different browser - eg Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.(see instructions below.) 
  3. Use a different computer/laptop. Are you using a Mac or PC?

Some users have reported issues in some browsers. We recommend that you use/download one of the following (if you don't already have it installed): Microsoft Edge 44 and above, Google Chrome 80 and above, Mozilla Firefox version 68 and above and Safari 12 and above

The system is fully functional and tested on all these versions. If you are unsure which version you are using, once you open your currently installed version of IE or Firefox please go the HELP menu and select: About Mozilla Firefox/Internet Explorer.

If you experience further technical issues, please call us on +61 2 9385 5116 to discuss, or take a screenshot and email cooprog@unsw.edu.au.

Include:

  • if you are on a Mac or PC;
  • which internet browser (incl. version) you are using; 
  • describe the problem you are having; 
  • provide screenshots of any error messages or other issues.
Do I need to make a separate application to UAC?

Yes. You do need to apply to UAC for admission to programs at UNSW. Once you have obtained your UAC number you need to ensure the number is entered in your UNSW Co-op Program application form.

What if I am interested in more than one Program offered by the UNSW Co-op Program?

You can apply for up to three (3) programs in your application, but only apply for Programs you are actually interested in studying. Nominate the programs in order of preference.

Do I need to have the program I am applying for under Co-op as one of my UAC Preferences?

If you are offered a UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship, you need to ensure that your preferences are such that you will be offered a position in that program.

What additional information should I include with my application?

YOU DO NOT NEED TO SEND IN SCHOOL REPORTS TO COMPLETE YOUR CO-OP APPLICATION.

In addition to completing and submitting your online application and video snapshot, you will also be responsible for nominating a teacher to complete your schools assessment page (SAP). The SAP is submitted directly to the Co-op Office by the nominated teacher., and this can be done after the application closing date. We recommend that you nominate your teacher as soon as you start your application. 

 

How will I know my application has been received by the UNSW Co-op Program office?

You will receive an email notification after you have submitted your application to confirm receipt.

When will I know if I have an interview?

Interview offers will be sent via email on Thursday 10th November.

Can I still apply if I decide to take a gap year?

Yes. If you take a gap year you can still apply for a Co-op Scholarship when applications open again the year after you complete your HSC. However, if you are not 100% certain that you will take a gap year, we would encourage you to apply the year you complete your HSC. If you later decide to take a gap year, you cannot defer a scholarship offer, but can reapply* in the next round.

(See: Can I defer my UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship?)

* Please note that if you commence a university degree or undertake any university study towards a degree during your gap year you will become ineligible for a Co-op Scholarship. Some exemptions apply, e.g. accelerated high school subjects including HS1917, studying at a yeshiva, etc.

 

Do I need to use a specific UAC code?

Any student applying for a Co-op scholarship in Accounting & Business Management; Finance and Banking; Information Systems Management and Marketing, will apply through the new B.Com (Co-op) degree. Students applying for a Co-op scholarship in Business Information Systems, will apply through the Information Systems (Co-op) Degree in Business Information Systems and those applying for a Co-op scholarship in Actuarial Studies, will apply through the new B. Actuarial Studies (Co-op) Degree.

B.Com (Co-op) Degree:

The 4 year degree program has a stand-alone UAC code 424600. Students applying for Co-op will need to list this code in their preferences. If students want to come to UNSW to do Business even if they are unsuccessful in gaining a Co-op scholarship, they will also need to list the standard B.Com UAC code 424000 in their preference list.

Information Systems (Co-op) Degree in Business Information Systems:

The new 4 year degree program has a stand-alone UAC code 424640. Students applying for Co-op in Business Information Systems will need to list this code in their preferences. If students want to come to UNSW, to do Information Systems even if they are unsuccessful in gaining a Co-op scholarship, they will also need to list the standard B.Information Systems UAC code 424500 in their preference list.

B.Actuarial Studies (Co-op) Degree:

The new 4 year degree program has a stand-alone UAC code 424620. Students applying for Co-op Actuarial Studies will need to list this code in their preferences. If students want to come to UNSW, to do Actuarial Studies even if they are unsuccessful in gaining a Co-op scholarship, they will also need to list the standard B.Actuarial UAC code 424300 in their preference list.

NB. Minimum 97.5 ATAR (or equivalent) for B.Actuarial Studies/B.Actuarial Studies (Co-op).

Students will be prompted with the correct codes when they register their preferences on the Co-op Online Application system.

Applicants in Science or Engineering continue to use the general UAC code for those programs as listed in the UAC guide.

What if something goes wrong with my video snapshot?

With technology, there’s always a chance things could go wrong. You do have the option to rerecord your snapshot twice (total 3 times) if needed, but if something goes wrong contact the Co-op office on:

E: cooprog@unsw.edu.au

T: (02) 9385 5116

How do I complete the video snapshot?

Students who have been invited to interview will receive an invitation to complete their Video snapshot on Thursday 9 November when they receive their interview offer. Video snapshots are due Thursday 16 November, and students must complete the snapshot to attend the interview.

The Vieple platform is a straightforward, easy to use video interviewing platform that can be accessed from any smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop with an internet connection.  It has been designed to make it as simple as possible to allow you to present yourself in the best possible light. Just click on the link in the email we send you and follow the prompts.  There is even an app that you can download to make it even less complicated!

Remember – this snapshot is just to help us get to know you better. Relax, be yourself, and let your personality shine through!

Why does the Co-op application include a video?

Video interviews are an increasingly common part of the hiring process in the professional world. 

You will have 2 minutes to: Introduce yourself and tell us something interesting, unusual, unique or different about you to expand on your written application.

Remember – this snapshot is just to help us get to know you better.  Relax, be yourself, and let your personality shine through!

Do you have any tips for the video snapshot?

Here are our top tips:

  • Relax, be yourself, and let your personality shine through!
  • Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable
  • Find a quiet, private, well-lit place, free from possible interruptions.
  • Ensure your internet connection is stable.
  • Check that your computer’s audio is working.
  • Test your computer’s webcam.
  • Close any unnecessary web browser tabs and applications.
  • Place your phone in silent mode.

More tips here: https://www.coop.unsw.edu.au/sites/default/files/video_snapshot_tips.pdf 

About Industry Training
Am I guaranteed a job with a sponsor company when I graduate?

After graduation there is no formal obligation for Co-op scholars to be employed by any of the sponsoring companies. Likewise, there is no obligation for sponsoring companies to offer employment. However, employers recognise that the Co-op Program produces the kind of graduates they are very keen to attract for challenging positions in their organisations. It is expected that scholars will firstly consider employment with a sponsor organisation.

What is expected on Industry Training placements?

Each IT placement is a learning experience, which complements academic studies. During the IT placements students are expected to conform to professional standards of performance, dress, business hours and undertake appropriate duties and responsibilities.

Scholars are required to work with different sponsors in subsequent IT placements. Contact with all sponsors of the UNSW Co-op Program will be possible, over the duration of the program, through company visits, guest lectures and social events.

Will I have to study at UNSW whilst on IT?

Most Co-op scholars will complete one (maximum two) courses whilst on IT placement. Classes are often attended in the afternoon or evening to minimise impact during work hours. Sponsors are familiar with students studying and will discuss your timetable with you when you commmence work. Scholars often comment that studying and working has vastly improved their time management skills and they are more organised with their spare time. 

Do Co-op scholars incur a HECS debt?

Co-op scholars incur the normal HECS debt related to the degree the student is studying.

Business scholars - All Co-op scholars in Business will enrol in the four year B.Com (Co-op) Degree*. Recognition is being awarded for increased reporting and assessment of industry experience. All industry placements will become fully assessable (Industry & University) courses and consequently, be granted credit points and attract HECS.

*Co-op scholars completing their degree in Business Information Systems are also awarded a 4 year degree, Bachelor of Information Systems (Co-op). All other conditions of the new B.Com (Co-op) will apply to this degree.

Engineering and Science - Co-op Programs in Engineering and Science are four year degrees and Co-op Engineering scholars** do an additional 5th year to complete all industry training experiences. Engineering and Science industry placements do not incur a HECS debt.

**Mining, Petroleum and Software Engineering scholars do not do an additional fifth year. Computer Science scholars undertake a three year program over a four year duration to accommodate industry training experiences. Computer Science scholars will only attract HECs fees for courses studied under the standard three year program.

Do Co-op Scholarships cover HECS fees in part or in full? On what can I spend the scholarship money?

Co-op scholarship payments can be spent at the student's absolute discretion and therefore could be used to pay-off all or part of a HECS debt.

Can Co-op scholarship holders take on paid employment during vacations or get involved in other work experience programs?

Co-op scholars can complete other part-time/vacation work while they on the program BUT only in periods where they do not have Program/work placement commitments. Timing of these commitments will depend on the degree being studied, please refer to the IT placement times for the specific programs.

About UNSW
Where do I find information on the different Faculties at UNSW?

Click here to view all the different faculties at UNSW. As you click through the pages for each faculty, you should find more detailed information on the areas of study offered, along with other useful information for future students

Where do I find the Handbook for UNSW?

A link to the UNSW Handbook can be found here. This is your guide to degree programs and courses offered at UNSW. Also see Faculties.

How do I find information about housing, accommodation or residential colleges at the University?

There is a wide range of accommodation both on and off campus for UNSW students.

* For more information on the full range of on campus student accommodation options on offer, please see www.housing.unsw.edu.au
* For more information on all UNSW owned and operated accommodation, click here www.accommodation.unsw.edu.au

What other scholarships are available at UNSW?

Apart from the Co-op Program, there are many other types of scholarships available at UNSW. Information, including instructions on how to register and apply, can be found on the UNSW Scholarships website

I'm a parent whose son or daughter is interested in studying at UNSW. What is the best source of information for me?

You may also wish to contact the Future Students Office, as well as a specific faculty if your child knows which one they are interested in studying with. Attending the UNSW Open Day on the first Saturday in September is also a fantastic opportunity to speak to UNSW staff, academics and students. 

Information for Sponsors
When should I expect a scholar on placement at my company?

Placement times differ for each program. Please refer to the particular program structure of the program/s you sponsor for details on when scholars are allocated for IT placements.

Can I choose which scholars I get on placement?

Sponsors can contact the Academic Co-ordinator and/or the Industry Liaison for their program/s to indicate preferences or what sort of work they can offer in order for this to be taken into consideration. Scholars are also consulted for their preferences. Final allocation of scholars is the responsibility of the Academic Co-ordinator.

What happens if we are unhappy with the scholar's performance?

We encourage you to discuss any issues firstly with the scholar to ensure the s/he has the opportunity to improve the situation or can provide feedback on what is causing the problem. If this discussion does not resolve the issue please contact the Industry Liaison for that program for further advice.

Do we pay the student whilst they are working on IT placement?

No. Throughout their periods of IT placements scholars receive, directly from the university, their regular fortnightly payment instalments*. It is therefore not appropriate for a sponsor to pay the scholar additional amounts outside the scholarship award whilst they are on placement. This is also important for the scholar to be covered by the university's insurance. 

Is the scholar entitled to leave or flexible hours?

Scholars are expected to complete the entire duration of their IT placement with the sponsor organisation. Any loss of time due to sickness, injury or approved outside activity will need to be made up unless otherwise determined by the sponsor. This includes scholars who may need to leave early to attend classes at UNSW, normally no more than one afternoon a week.

Leave or the prorating of leave is not applicable to scholars as this time has already been deducted in calculating their overall IT placement. We ask the sponsors to be flexible to accommodate scholars academic requirements, however all scholars are expected to make that time back unless otherwise determined by the sponsor. This is to be negotiated between the scholar and sponsor. Please contact the Industry Liaison for your program if complications arise. Contact Us

What sort of tasks can I give to a scholar?

The IT placement activities are intended to compliment academic studies by exposing scholars to the practical application of their university degree. The sponsor organisation is encouraged to challenge the scholar and to provide regular feedback on their progress. Most of the scholars have demonstrated abilities beyond those normally expected of people of a similar age and should respond well to challenges. We advise companies to treat them like a graduate recruit and to consult each scholar about particular strengths and areas for development.

When do we receive an invoice?

We invoice our sponsors annually in February/March. For further questions regarding payments please see the contact details of our finance officer. Contact Us

Who can I contact if I have further questions?

The Co-op team has three Industry Liaisons that can assist you with any enquiries. Please see the contact details of the person that looks after your program/s. Contact Us