Starting at UNSW in 2022? Here's what to expect

We aren’t the first to say it, and we won’t be the last. The last couple of years have been like no other. But, you made it through. You’ve finished high school in one of the most challenging years the world has seen. Now get ready to embark on your 2022 uni adventure! 

What will my uni experience look like in Term 1, 2022?  

With the latest easing of COVID-19 restrictions, we're still monitoring the evolving situation closely. Recent reports indicate we're reaching the peak in infection numbers and expect to see a reduction in cases over the coming weeks. The Australian and NSW public health efforts, as well as UNSW safety measures, mean that if you choose to study on campus it can be social, lively and safe, while enjoying all the benefits of face to face learning.

Term 1 will kick off by welcoming you to O-Week from 7-11 February with induction and orientation activities. Events will be held outdoors where possible and provide online options if you can't attend in person. We will continue to monitor developments with Omicron in the coming weeks and provide updates as required. 

Will classes be online or face-to-face?  

We plan to still offer many face-to-face classes in Term 1, especially where the in-person experience is more critical to learning or where it is harder to replicate online. Classes in Term 1, 2021 will be on campus where possible – if you can attend these classes in person, we encourage you to do so. It’s a great way to build the connections that will help shape the rest of your uni experience.  

There has been a shift in enrolment preferences for online classes which offer flexibility and still offer opportunities to connect with your classmates and form new connections. To accommodate this demand, we'll make some adjustments to our timetabling, adding additional online options. These amendments will be confirmed and visible in myUNSW by Tuesday 25 January.

What if I can’t make it in person?  

If you're unable to attend campus in 2022, online options will continue to be provided where required. We'll continue to provide arrangements that meet public health advice or student demand.

Explore all current courses offerings in the UNSW class timetable. 

Student life – everything outside the classroom  

One of the best parts about returning to campus is the social aspect. There's still plenty of opportunities for coffee catch-ups and Fridays at Roundhouse while following public health advice. Please see our updated FAQs for more detailed information about returning to campus.

There is strong evidence that being fully vaccinated provides excellent protection against the virus, and we strongly encourage all of the UNSW community to get vaccinated if you have not already done so, and to get your booster shot as soon as you able to. The UNSW Health Service on campus is open for face-to-face appointments and is also offering COVID-19 vaccinations for students.

Luckily you’ll be able to experience a range of student life in person if you choose. From clubs and societies, to sport, volunteering, events and more, sign up to Arc – UNSW Student Life to discover all the exciting opportunities available outside the classroom at UNSW.  

Still have questions?  

Starting uni is a big step and we understand there’s a lot to take in. If you still have questions, there’s a number of ways to get the information or support you need:  

• Visit our Coronavirus Info Hub for students 

• Get in touch with our helpful Future Student Advisers 

Mental health and wellbeing support is also available to students via other online resources including UNSW Mindhub, the UNSW Student Life Hub as well as through Arc events and activities.  

We hope to welcome you to campus very soon!