All UNSW staff and students have access to the hub for any project! Undergraduate coursework has priority however, and as such research and personal projects may be delayed during peak demand at the end of term.

There's no universal best option — each technology has distinct strengths and trade-offs. As a rule of thumb: FDM suits functional parts and larger prints; resin (SLA/MSLA) excels at fine detail but has size limits; and specialist processes like SLS and CFF are for specific material or structural requirements. See each technology's page for a deeper breakdown.

Any software that exports mesh files (STL, OBJ, etc.) will work, although we particularly recommend either Fusion 360 or Onshape, as both are free for students and are relatively powerful software packages. See our CAD Starter Guide for a lay of the land and further recommendations.

Lead times vary dramatically depending on queue volume, part size, and technology. While standard filament (FDM) prints are typically ready within 1–3 business days, more complex or specialist jobs may take longer!

Pricing varies depending on the material and technology — it's best to check out our pricing schedule for the most up to date prices. There are also some courses that arrange for prepaid prints within our hub, so make sure you write down your course code when completing the form for coursework.

Yes! For most projects the 3DP Hub service is the fastest option — no training needed, just upload and go. If you want hands-on access, earn the DIY 3D Printing Badge — once badged, you get access to a limited number of dedicated Do-It-Yourself FDM machines — just turn up and start printing.

Our 3D Printing network includes locations all across UNSW campus (and beyond) — you'll get instructions on when and where to pick up your prints via email. If you have more questions about 3D printing technologies, head to the Digital Fabrication Lab if you're an Arts and Design student, or the Engineering 3D Printing Hub for everyone else.