Study Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

You're viewing degree information for International students

You're considered an International student if you are:

NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
City West

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus/Online

Program Code
DBRF

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 38,300 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
097499K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above

OR
Work and life experience

Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/ employment was English.

English language test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Norway GPA	3
Pakistan HSSC	80
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	7
Sweden GPA	13
Bangladesh HSC	3.5
Canada High School (OSSD)	65
Eynesbury FSP	320
German Abitur	3.5
Kenya KCSE (average)	B
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	31
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	7
Vietnam	7.5
Australia	68
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1110
India (best 4) State Board	75
India (best 4) Central Board	65
HKDSE	15
Nepal NEB	2.51

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Students may be eligible for a High Achiever Grant. For more information visit the UniSA Financial Planning High Achiever Grant page.

Degree overview

Study at a university recognised globally in Business. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence¹.
Study a curriculum informed by above world-class research in Business².
Study at a university ranked No. 1 in South Australia³ and Top 15 in Australia for Business and Economics⁴.
UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
Study one of the first FASEA approved bachelor degrees in Australia⁵.
Meet the education requirements to practise as a qualified and accredited financial adviser.
Explore how to prepare detailed financial plans which meet legal and regulatory requirements, and develop skills in personal budgeting, superannuation and retirement planning, financial risk management and estate planning.
Gain practical skills with software commonly used in the financial planning industry and access our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which features the same technology used by the world’s leading banks and investment firms.
Add a 1-year master’s degree to your studies with our Fast-track to Masters package and complete an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years.
Gain real-world experience as part of your studies through an internship, student exchange or mentorship opportunity.
Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses within this program.
Benefit from exam preparation resources and workshops so you feel confident for your exams.

¹UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings. ²2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). ³2024 THE Subject Rankings. ⁴2023 THE Subject Rankings. ⁵The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program. The Financial Adviser Standards and Conduct Unit (FASCU), The Treasury, have taken on the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) as of 1 January 2022.

Snapshot

Business_Hub_images-38 copy.jpg

This program is a FASEA approved degree by the Financial Adviser Standards and Conduct Unit (FASCU), The Treasury¹ and will equip you with the education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser.

Explore an exciting career in a dynamic and growing area of the financial services industry with one of the first bachelor programs in Australia to meet new education requirements.

We’ve worked closely with industry to develop our course content, and regularly consult with Treasury to ensure your degree meets the most up-to-date industry standards.

What is a financial adviser?
Financial advisers assist clients to build and manage their personal wealth, tax, financial risk and spending over their lifetimes. They consider a number of factors such as current wealth, income and lifestyle aspirations, and develop plans so their clients can reach short and long-term financial goals.

With a strong practical focus and access to state-of-the-art technology, you will further your skills in preparing detailed financial plans and documentation which meet legal and regulatory requirements.

¹The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program. The Financial Adviser Standards and Conduct Unit (FASCU), The Treasury, have taken on the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) as of 1 January 2022.

What you'll learn

Business_Hub_images-63 copy.jpg

You will start with core courses in areas such as analytics, accounting and economic theory. These will give you a solid grasp of business fundamentals that you can apply to a range of careers.

In your specialisation you will develop your expertise across areas such as: tax; superannuation; insurance; personal finance; relevant legislations, regulations and codes of practice; as well as building and managing client relationships – a critical focus area for future financial advisers.

You will study estate planning and compulsory courses that have been outlined in Treasury's education requirements, including ethics and professionalism, and financial advice regulatory and legal obligations. In your final year, you will also develop and present a detailed statement of advice (SOA) – a comprehensive document financial advisers provide to clients based on their needs and goals.

This program is recognised a FASEA approved program¹ which means it provides you with the essential education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser after graduation.

Tertiary Transfer

If you have a Pass average or above from another eligible degree, you may be eligible to use this as entry into this program. Learn more.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

If you have undertaken related Higher Education, TAFE, VET, Professional body, or work experience, you may be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) and reduce the duration of the degree. Learn more.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
Course name FIRST YEAR			Reference
Course name First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)			Reference
Course name Accounting for Business	Area and cat no. ACCT 1008	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name Quantitative Methods for Business	Area and cat no. MATH 1053	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name Principles of Economics	Area and cat no. ECON 1008	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name Personal Finance	Area and cat no. BANK 1002	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)			Reference
Course name Business Law	Area and cat no. LAWS 1018	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Career Development in Business	Area and cat no. BUSS 1060	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name Business and Society	Area and cat no. BUSS 1057	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name OR			Reference
Course name International Study Tour		Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 2
Course name OR			Reference
Course name Elective		Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 1
Course name Financial Markets and Institutions	Area and cat no. BANK 1005	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name SECOND YEAR			Reference
Course name First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)			Reference
Course name Marketing Principles: Trading and Exchange	Area and cat no. MARK 1010	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name Entrepreneurship for Social and Market Impact	Area and cat no. BUSS 2085	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name Introduction to Financial Planning	Area and cat no. BANK 2008	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Macroeconomics	Area and cat no. ECON 1007	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)			Reference
Course name Companies and Partnership Law	Area and cat no. COML 2005	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Business Intelligence	Area and cat no. INFS 2036	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Ethics and Financial Advice	Area and cat no. BANK 2012	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Management and Organisation	Area and cat no. BUSS 2068	Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 3
Course name THIRD YEAR			Reference
Course name First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)			Reference
Course name Portfolio and Fund Management	Area and cat no. BANK 3004	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Taxation Law 1	Area and cat no. ACCT 3002	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Superannuation	Area and cat no. BANK 3014	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Elective		Units 4.5	Reference Note(s): 1
Course name Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)			Reference
Course name Risk Management and Insurance	Area and cat no. BANK 3013	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Estate Planning	Area and cat no. BANK 3012	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Applied Financial Planning	Area and cat no. BANK 3005	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name Strategic Financial Analysis	Area and cat no. BUSS 3083	Units 4.5	Reference
Course name OR			Reference
Course name Strategic Management	Area and cat no. BUSS 3023	Units 4.5	Reference

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
International Elective
Course name International Currency and Banking Markets	Area and cat no. BANK 3011	Units 4.5
Experiential Electives
Course name Business Practicum	Area and cat no. BUSS 3080	Units 4.5
Course name Business Virtual Study Tour - Undergraduate	Area and cat no. BUSS 2070	Units 4.5
Course name Virtual Industry Internship	Area and cat no. BUSS 3100	Units 4.5
Course name Business Internship 30 Days	Area and cat no. BUSS 3010	Units 9

Rules & notes

Notes

1. One elective may be chosen from outside UniSA Business. Course pre-requisites must be satisfied.

2. View available Overseas Study Opportunities at https://www.unisa.edu.au/global-experiences/study-overseas/ or contact short.programs@unisa.edu.au

3. Students that have been assessed as completing a qualification in a business discipline at AQF Diploma level or equivalent and have received 36 units of block credit are not required to complete this course.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus, you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects and contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12 – 26 hours of study when at university and 14 – 28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Marketing_Clinic-15 copy_1.jpg Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professional and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

reports, project documentation, case studies and presentations
essays and assignments
examinations
industry relevant research-based projects
practicals and team-based projects
contributions to the workplace and classroom.

In addition to meeting new education standards, Treasury has also outlined new professional requirements. This includes completing a professional year (for new entrants only), passing a national exam, undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and completing a code of ethics course.

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning)

This degree FASEA approved degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to practise as a financial adviser and succeed in the financial services sector¹.

Your course content has been developed in conjunction with leading industry experts and researchers to ensure that what you learn is practical, relevant and current to today’s changing business landscape.

You’ll learn from expert academics and practising financial advisers. Your studies are enriched by the unique insights from professionals who know the ins and outs of the industry and understand the unique challenges and opportunities that financial advisers face today.

You will also use our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room which includes a market data feed, trading software as well as XPLAN financial planning software common in practice.

You can participate in an investigative study tour learning about business practices, financial sectors as well as political and cultural influences in other regions.

The financial services profession has recently introduced new education standards, making it more important than ever for practising and aspiring financial advisers to hold a recognised qualification. If you’re currently working in financial planning, you’ll need to complete a Treasury-approved program by 2026 to continue practising. If you’re looking to enter the industry, you’ll now need to study a Treasury-approved program to start your career.

UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.

Fast-track to Masters

Want to gain a postgraduate degree with just one extra year of study? You can package the Bachelor of Business with a Master of Management and graduate with two qualifications in four years with our Fast-track to Masters package. You’ll study a three-year bachelor's degree and a one-year master’s degree (which typically takes two years) by swapping selected undergraduate courses or electives for postgraduate courses, and set yourself up for career success, fast.

More ways to study

Our flexible delivery and extracurricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred learning style, and career interests. You can benefit from online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and accelerated learning pathways. Plus, you can make the most of professional development courses endorsed by industry, build leadership skills by participating in the UniSA+ Award, or seek support at our on-campus Business Student Hub.

Real-world connections

In addition to learning from teachers with professional experience as part of your studies, we also offer opportunities for you to connect with industry outside the classroom. There are a range of engagement opportunities available to you, including:

Build your networks and career options by participating in the Business Career Mentor Program, which pairs you with an experienced business professional
Undertake a Business Internship or complete an industry project, and apply the skills and knowledge gained from your studies in a real workplace setting
Become a global citizen through our international exchange programs– we have more than 80 partner institutions worldwide, and study options that range from two weeks to one year
Meet one-to-one with a senior business executive through our Executive in Residence program. Learn more through our Business Careers team.

We host regular University-wide careers events and workshops, expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Study Financial Planning at UniSA

Hear from Geoff Pacecca, Founder and Principal Adviser of GAP Financial and UniSA Financial Planning lecturer, about our suite of programs and the benefits of furthering your unstoppable career at UniSA.

Career outcomes

Your career

Our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career ready.

The financial services industry is one of the leading sectors in the Australian economy and plays a key role in facilitating the productive flow of funds between industries, companies and people.

There are a range of roles you could pursue in diverse businesses. There are opportunities in financial institutions, investment banks, superannuation and insurance funds, and financial advisory firms – or you can choose to be self-employed and set up your own practice. Financial advisers can also specialise in several areas, such as tax planning, risk management or retirement planning.

Careers to consider:

Client relationship manager: providing high value, holistic and strategic financial advice to clients; identifying opportunities to build new client relationships and strengthen existing ones; researching the latest products and regulations; and focusing on delivering a high-quality customer experience.
Estate planner: providing clients with legal, financial and accounting advice to ensure long term financial protection of their estate during life and post-mortem; ensuring any assets are dispersed according to the wishes of the deceased in an effective way; and developing estate plans which may include preparing wills, life insurance, family trusts and manage tax implications for beneficiaries.
Insurance broker: researching and reviewing available finance and insurance products to meet client requirements; arranging insurance, home loan mortgages and other types of finance for clients through banks, lenders, financiers and insurance companies; help clients understand insurance policy conditions, risks, premium rates and benefits; preparing reports for underwriters and liaise with other insurance professionals.
Investment adviser or manager: developing financial plans and investment strategies for individuals and organisations; monitoring investment performance and review investment plans based on needs and changes in the market; buying and selling stocks and bonds for clients; and providing advice on tax implications, securities, insurance cover, pension plans and real estate.
Qualified financial planner or adviser: helping clients to meet short-term and long-term financial goals; assisting with legal and financial documents, financial laws and regulatory requirements; providing advice on personal investments and social security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and delivering a high-quality customer experience.
Superannuation consultant: providing compliant financial advice in areas such as personal and business superannuation, retirement income stream products, pensions rollovers and annuities; interpreting new legislation changes and consider the impact of those changes on the portfolio of funds, help clients understand merits of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF), and develop retirement plan strategies.
Wealth manager: delivering holistic wealth management strategies and plans to help clients grow and sustain long-term financial goals; providing services across a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, and financial advice on pensions, trusts, inheritances, estate planning, retirement planning, and tax bands; and possessing knowledge of software solutions and key platforms in the industry.

In addition to new education standards, Treasury has outlined new professional requirements. This includes completing a professional year (for new entrants only), passing a national exam, undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and completing a code of ethics course.

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is a Financial Adviser Standards, The Treasury approved program.

Industry facts

Between now and 2023, the ABS projects the number of professional finance roles in Australia will increase.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Catalogue 8165.0 – Counts of Australian businesses, including entries and exits, June 2015 to June 2019.

The main topic areas of financial advice clients seek advice on are superannuation and investment advice, loans and investment advice, self-managed superannuation fund advice, and tax advice.

Financial Services Royal Commission, Some Features of the Australian Financial Planning Industry, 2018.

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

UniSA College Diploma in Business
UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Business)
SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
see the full list of entry pathways that may apply

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
see the full list of entry pathways that may apply

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

The Business Student Hub is a dedicated and convenient support service for business students, from first year right through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties, and can help with referrals to support services across the University. The Business Student Hub is there to facilitate your life at university, so you get the most out of your UniSA experience.

You can also access a range of other international student services including

careers advice
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services

UniSA’s Student Association, USASA, also offers a range of other services.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers which you can work with face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies and can also offer help with the English language.

When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your ID cards, fees and any other questions you might have.

24/7 digital environment

With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:

study online, including accessing videos and course resources
participate in virtual classrooms
submit your assignments and get feedback online
use forums and discussion boards for team work and communication

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Please note, all student visa holders are required to meet their visa condition to study no more than one-third of their program in an online mode and maintain enrolment in at least one internal (face-to-face) course per compulsory study period, unless it is their final course and not available internally. If you are currently residing in Adelaide, on-campus attendance (such as seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements would apply, as outlined on individual course pages. If you are currently overseas, online study may be available following your individual study plan.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your program director

I am Program Director: Finance and Financial Planning in UniSA Business and Lecturer in Financial Planning and Finance. I have worked at the University of Greenwich (London) and have consulted both national and international organisations in economics, finance, and financial planning.
I teach in the areas of banking, finance, and financial planning, including personal financial planning, and personal risk management and insurance. My current research focuses on aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR), environmental, sustainability and governance (ESG) factors, green finance, financial system governance and institutional reform, market spillovers, and the cost and provision of financial advice to lower socio-economic groups.
I am also a member of key industry professional bodies, and serve on relevant industry committees, enabling me to deliver the latest industry-informed knowledge to students. I believe my extensive experience helps me to understand and support students as they develop the necessary academic and practical skills to address real-world industry challenges, becoming experts in their area of interest.

Mr Ron McIver

Program Director

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