The Bachelor of Asian Studies (with Year in Asia) is a four-year undergraduate degree that combines rigorous academic study with an immersive full year of study at a partner university in Asia — including destinations such as Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, and Jakarta. Taught primarily in English, the degree also requires students to undertake intensive study in a target Asian language, with majors and minors that can be based on a language, a region, or a discipline — for example, Modern Chinese Language, Asia-Pacific Politics, Japanese Studies, Southeast Asian Studies, Korean Studies, and many others. The degree is proudly interdisciplinary, drawing on the humanities and social sciences to equip students with critical, contextual knowledge of Asia's diverse societies, cultures, histories, and political systems. It is designed for ambitious students who want to become genuine Asia specialists, not just observers of the region.

The program suits students who are curious about the world, drawn to cross-cultural communication, and motivated to work at the intersection of language, politics, culture, and international affairs. It is ideal for those seeking careers where deep regional knowledge and bilingual or multilingual fluency set them apart. Graduates emerge with advanced language proficiency, the capacity to critically evaluate Asia's role in global affairs, and hands-on lived experience in the region — a combination that is increasingly rare and highly prized by employers.

Key employers of graduates include the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Department of Home Affairs, AusAID and the Australian aid sector, state and federal government agencies, multinational corporations with Asia-Pacific operations, major Australian banks and financial institutions, international development organisations such as the World Bank and the United Nations, media organisations, tourism and hospitality companies, education providers, and cultural institutions such as museums and galleries.

Australian domestic applicants are generally assessed on the basis of their Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (or equivalent state-based qualification) and a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR plus any applicable adjustment factors). Typical ATARs for this degree sit in the mid-to-high 70s to 80s range, though this varies by institution and intake year. Competitive applicants often have demonstrated achievement in relevant subjects such as modern Asian languages, English, history, geography, or social sciences. Equity and diversity adjustment factors may apply. Applicants who have completed tertiary or vocational study, or who have prior professional experience, may be assessed on the basis of an equivalent selection rank or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Internal transfers from other bachelor programs at the same institution are also possible, typically requiring a minimum GPA of around 5.0 out of 7.0, along with demonstrated progress in language study.

For the Year in Asia component specifically, students must meet additional eligibility requirements before being accepted into a study-destination placement. These typically include demonstrated ability or progression in the language of the destination country, with a minimum number of language units completed before departure, and maintenance of a minimum academic standard during their on-campus studies. Places in each study destination are limited and students are ranked competitively on language proficiency and academic performance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through IELTS (overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0) or equivalent tests such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Some providers may accept completion of prior education in English as evidence of proficiency.