Changes to mathematics prerequisites
Source: https://www.sydney.edu.au/study/applying/how-to-apply/undergraduate/mathematics-prerequisite/changes-to-mathematics-prerequisites.html Parent: https://www.sydney.edu.au/study/applying/how-to-apply/postgraduate-research.html
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Changes to mathematics prerequisites
We have replaced the advanced mathematics prerequisite for many of our degrees with more individual and targeted mathematics support upon commencement.
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Why were the changes made?
We recognise the importance of mathematics skills and knowledge for students. We also understand that school participation in advanced mathematics has declined, and that a prerequisite can present a barrier to many students from enrolling at Sydney, in particular those from rural, regional and remote areas.
These changes aim to increase the accessibility of our courses while ensuring that commencing students are equipped with the necessary knowledge base to progress through their degrees successfully.
What are the changes?
Since 2025, the advanced mathematics prerequisite has been removed from the following degrees.
The University of Sydney Business School
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Advanced Studies
- Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Economics
- Bachelor of Economics (Dual Degree: Sciences Po, France)
- Bachelor of Economics and Bachelor of Advanced Studies
- Bachelor of Economics and Bachelor of Laws
Faculty of Engineering
- Bachelor of Project Management
Faculty of Medicine and Health
- Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine
- Bachelor of Science and Master of Nursing
- Bachelor of Science (Health) and Master of Nursing
Faculty of Science
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Bachelor of Psychology Honours
- Bachelor of Science and associated streams
- Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies and associated streams
- Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Medicine
- Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine
- Bachelor of Science and Master of Mathematical Sciences
- Bachelor of Science and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Bachelor of Veterinary Biology and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
- Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Laws
Frequently asked questions
Is there support available for students entering courses where mathematics skills and knowledge is needed?
Yes. Learn more about our mathematics learning support for commencing students.
How does the change to the mathematics prerequisite impact students already enrolled in these courses?
There will be no change for students already enrolled at the University of Sydney. Students enrolled in all the courses listed above can continue to access the support services offered.
Should I continue with advanced mathematics in high school, now that the prerequisite has been removed for the course I want to do in 2026? Are there bonus points (for domestic students)?
Taking advanced mathematics at school gives students a strong basis from which to commence their studies at the University of Sydney, and it remains assumed knowledge for many of our science courses. The only difference is that it will no longer be a requirement for entry.
The University’s Academic Excellence Scheme (AES) recognises high performance in advanced mathematics by applying adjustment factors to boost your selection rank.
For Semester 1 and 2 entry in 2026, students who achieve a Band 3 or 4 in Mathematics Advanced in their Year 12 studies, applying for the courses that no longer have the mathematics prerequisite, will also be eligible to receive an additional point towards their selection rank through the AES. If you’re eligible, this will be automatically applied.
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