Local and International students enrolled at National and International Universities can visit UNSW to conduct short-term research as part of their research program. Short-term research visits promote research collaboration with other institutions and allow students to gain research experience at UNSW. Whilst conducting research at UNSW, visiting students have access to an appropriate supervisor, services, library, campus amenities and liability insurance whilst on UNSW premises. Guidelines and application procedures differ for local and international students.

Only students enrolled at an Australian University are eligible for consideration. Visiting research students must continue to be enrolled at their home University to be eligible for a short research visit. Visiting research students are not liable for UNSW student fees (but may be liable for fees at their home institution).

Application Procedures

A visiting research student application form (word version, pdf version) must be endorsed by the appropriate Head of School and submitted to the Graduate Research School for approval by the Dean of Graduate Research. This application must be lodged with an application for miscellaneous user ID and internet access for non-UNSW staff members, a full curriculum vitae, proof of current enrolment, and a written endorsement of the proposed short-term stay at UNSW by the institution where the student is currently enrolled.

The Professional Practicum Program is designed for students from overseas universities who wish to come to UNSW to obtain research experience or professional/industrial practice. This professional Practicum is for a limited period (usually between two and six months) and may be a formal requirement for the award of a degree at the student's home university. This is a full-time, non-award research program and participants are liable for an application fee. The program enables Practicum students to obtain a Student Visa from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

The International Exchange Program is responsible for administering the Professional Practicum Program. For information on guidelines, application procedures and forms, language and academic requirements, fee schedule, enrolment and contact details, please visit the Professional Practicum Student Program webpage.

The Commonwealth Government’s Endeavour Postgraduate Research Fellowships enable international students to seek academic affiliation with an Australian institution for a period of four to six months for study and/or research in their chosen field.

The Graduate Research School has produced an Information Sheet which outlines advice and processes for Faculties with Endeavour Research Fellowship applicants.