Bachelor of Finance
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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)
Program Code
DBFI
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]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
108857J
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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
NoneAssumed Knowledge
NoneEnglish 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 testPlease 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)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
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 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 Norway GPA 3 Pakistan HSSC 80 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 7 Sweden GPA 13
This degree can be packaged with a masters degree. For more information and SATAC codes visit Fast-track to Masters
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 world-class research in Finance2.
- Ranked No. 1 in South Australia and Top 15 in Australia for Business and Economics3.
- Study at the #1 Business School in SA, and Top 5 business school in Australia for quality4.
- Study a degree accredited by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, CPA Australia and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.
- UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
- Gain the knowledge and confidence to succeed in the fast-paced financial sector with South Australia's most established finance degree.
- Focus on making decisions about money (finance), including borrowing, lending, investing, and managing risk.
- Learn in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and financial analysis tools – the same technology used by leading banks and investment firms globally.
- 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 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 flexible study options to suit your needs.
1UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 32023 THE Subject Rankings. 4Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools List 2023.
Snapshot
Prepare to succeed in the fast-paced financial sector with South Australia’s most established finance degree.
With a focus on making financial decisions and the markets and organisations where these occur, you will develop a dynamic understanding of the complex finance industry as part of your degree. You will gain knowledge in areas such as investment banking and funds management, and have the chance to learn in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus.
We know that employers value graduates with industry experience, so there are opportunities to embed work-integrated learning into your degree through an internship, and mentorship, as well as an overseas exchange.
What you'll learn
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 focus on finance and financial markets. Specific areas include financial markets and institutions: international currency and banking markets; portfolio and fund management; macroeconomics; corporate valuation; and financial risk analysis and management.
You can also embark on an overseas study tour, undertake an industry placement, or work on an industry-related research project.
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.
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, as well as to 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
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.
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 Finance
You will kick-start your career with courses that develop your knowledge and skills in understanding financial assets and markets. This degree will qualify you for financial industry accreditation and prepare you for a rewarding career in the fast-paced financial sector.
You will learn the mechanics of the financial market and gain practical skills in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room, which includes a market data feed and trading software – the same technology used by the world’s leading banks and investment firms.
You can participate in an investigative study tour learning about business practices, financial sectors as well as political and cultural influences in other regions.
This degree is dynamic, and its program structure is informed by industry and the latest practical research in finance. Therefore, as a graduate you will be equipped with the knowledge and skill required by the finance industry. Also, you will be eligible for membership with various professional bodies, including the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA), and well-prepared to undertake the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute program of study.
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.
This could be you
You'll graduate from UniSA prepared for a range of careers. See where a finance degree could take you.
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.
Careers to consider include:
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Trader: executing trades (stocks, bonds, derivatives) at a trading desk of an investment fund for their funds or institutional clients.
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Equity/research analyst: studying and analysing financial information and trends for clients; advising on share buying; reviews stocks, bonds and other financial instruments for reporting.
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Financial Analyst (corporate Finance): reviewing cash flow, revenue and overall finances and financial risks of an organization.
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Investment banker: raising capital for companies, governments and other entities; assisting with large, complicated financial transactions; providing advice in areas such as mergers and acquisitions, regulatory environments, and risk assessment.
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Investment funds manager: providing financial advice about investment matters such as buying and selling of trusts, shares and bonds; analysing data and available information to make decisions.
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Portfolio manager: constructing and managing investment portfolios for clients based on their risk and risk preferences, return expectations on investment as well as market conditions.
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Asset allocation consultant: helping the portfolio manager to allocate clients’ money in different asset classes (shares, bonds, cash, etc.) and monitor their performance.
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Stockbroker: buying and selling securities on a stock exchange on behalf of retail clients.
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Commercial banker: providing financial advice to corporate clients; promoting banks' financial services; building relationships with banking customers to create more accounts; coordinating different bank departments to ensure smooth operations.
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Corporate loan manager: liaising between institutions and clients to find suitable corporate loan arrangements; soliciting loans; representing creditors to borrowers and vice versa.
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Business adviser: working with new or established businesses; analysing business plans and financial statements; advising on investments, marketing, funding and financial trends; understanding consumer needs and how to improve profitability.
Professional accreditation and recognition
Graduates of the program satisfy the educational requirements for membership of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA) where they are working in the financial services industry.
This program is recognised through the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program. Affiliated programs incorporate at least 70% of the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) for all three levels of the CFA Program exams, including ethics. This program positions students to undertake the Chartered Financial Analyst® exam, which has become one of the most respected and recognised investment credentials in the world. The CFA Institute University Affiliation Program signals to potential employers and the marketplace that the curriculum is closely tied to professional practice and is well-suited to preparing students to sit for the CFA examinations. As an Affiliated University, UniSA Business is eligible to grant a number of student scholarships for the CFA Program each year.
Industry facts
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
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
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.
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.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
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 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.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
What others are saying
My career started in my final year at UniSA when an internship led to employment in the financial planning team at Hood Sweeney. I prepared reports for client meetings, built relationships and really understood how the firm’s services added value to its clients. I now work alongside an innovative team applying those same skills as an education consultant in London – many of the fundamentals learnt at university I carry into my workplace every day.
Brad Coulson
Bachelor of Business (Finance)
Having access to the Iress Finance Trading Room as part of my program has provided me with a distinct advantage for when I enter the workforce in the future. I have gained valuable experience interacting with financial trading market simulation software which meant I could engage with the wider trading industry.
Phuc Nguyen
Bachelor of Business (Finance)
UniSA Study Help PALS Leader
Iress Trading Room
