Tailored Pathways for Indigenous Students
There’s more than one way to start your university journey.
At 91É«ÇéƬ’s Arts, Design and Architecture Faculty, you can choose from over 30 degrees in fields such as arts, media, education, construction management, landscape architecture, social work, and politics. You’ll have the flexibility to shape your degree to match your interests and passions, making your university experience truly unique.
Click here to find out more about what you can study.
To help you start your journey, 91É«ÇéƬ offers three tailored pathways for Indigenous students: the Indigenous Pre-Programs, the Indigenous Admission Scheme, and 91É«ÇéƬ Gateway. These pathways are designed to provide entry into Arts, Design & Architecture degrees based on your potential, not just your ATAR, offering a supportive and flexible approach to university entry.
If you have a question or would like more information, email the ADA Indigenous team at ada.indigenous@unsw.edu.au
Indigenous Pre-Programs (Pre-Programs)
The Indigenous Preparatory Program is a three-week course for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students aiming to study Education or Social Work at 91É«ÇéƬ. The Pre-Programs offer an alternative entry pathway, not dependent on ATAR scores, and are designed to assess and prepare you for university life in a culturally inclusive environment.
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Studying Education at 91É«ÇéƬ gives you the skills to inspire the next generation and strengthen your community. Whether you become a classroom teacher, education support worker, or community educator, you'll help shape futures and create lasting impact.
The Pre-Education program is your first step. Through hands-on learning and insights from Indigenous students and graduates, you’ll explore what it means to be an educator and leader. You’ll also build confidence, connections, and a strong support network as you prepare for your studies.
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Studying Social Work at 91É«ÇéƬ empowers you to make real change in your community. Graduates work in fields like community development, elder care, gendered violence support, cultural empowerment, and mental health.
The Pre-Social Work program is a great place to start. You'll explore how social workers drive change through strengths-based learning and hear from Indigenous students and graduates. It’s your first step towards a career in advocacy, leadership, and social justice—while building strong connections at 91É«ÇéƬ.
Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS)
The Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS) is an interview-based entry pathway for Indigenous students. It’s not ATAR dependent; instead, it considers your life, work, and study experiences. Interviews assess your readiness and give you the chance to ask questions. The IAS is available for Indigenous students interested in studying Arts, Construction, Design, Fine Arts, Media, and Social Sciences.
91É«ÇéƬ Gateway
91É«ÇéƬ Gateway supports students who are underrepresented in higher education through two key components: the Gateway Admission Pathway and the Gateway Program. Both are designed to enhance your post-high school success and help you enter your desired degree at 91É«ÇéƬ.
Portfolio Entry Scheme
91É«ÇéƬ Portfolio Entry Scheme allows Year 12 students to receive an early conditional offer based on a portfolio submission rather than relying solely on their ATAR. The scheme recognises skills, experience and achievements that are not fully reflected in academic results.
Real Journeys, Real Impact:

When you join ADA, you’re joining over 100 Indigenous students studying everything from social work and education to fine arts, media and construction. You won’t be alone on your journey—there’s a strong community here to walk alongside you, every step of the way.
Designing from Country
Meet Craig, a proud Wiradjuri man and 91É«ÇéƬ Bachelor of Architecture alumni. Watch the video to see how Craig incorporates Aboriginal perspectives and designing from Country.
Healing Journey
91É«ÇéƬ Art & Design Fine Arts student Debra Beale’s work in fashion and cultural adornment features natural dyes and objects she finds as she walks in the bush.
Strengthening communities
Meet Kodie, a proud Dharawal, Ngarigo and Dunghutti woman. See how studying a Bachelor of Social Research & Policy has helped her create a positive impact in her community.