New students

New to AUT? Starting uni is exciting but it can also be a bit of a change from high school or the workplace. Don't worry – we're here to help.

Find out how to get started at AUT, where to get support, and how to make sure you’re settling into uni life and making the most of your time at AUT.

Information for new students

Make sure you get the best start to your AUT journey and use our resources to get a digital headstart with information on getting set up for your first week at AUT and the support available at AUT.

New to New Zealand? International student information

Student support assisting person at AUT

Getting started: student ambassadors introduce you to AUT services

To help you make the most of your time at AUT, our student ambassadors provide an overview of the support services, systems and spaces available for you. Watch what Prabhjot, Shenay, AJ and Mithila would like to share.

Tips from other students

Sophia Ernst

Bachelor of Business in Economics and Bachelor of International Hospitality Management in Event Management conjoint programmes

“If you’re a new student there are so many opportunities for you to connect with likeminded people, and have some really valuable and fun experiences. We have career expos, talks with alumni and professionals, free hangi, fun activations, events at Vesbar…”

Sherry Ng

Bachelor of Creative Technologies

“I was so nervous going into university because I came from a small high school where everyone knew each other by name. I didn’t know anyone when I started at AUT but I was quick to meet new friends during Orientation.”

Cerys Gwilliam

Bachelor of Arts in Event Management & Bachelor of Business in Marketing, Advertising, Retail and Sales

“Don’t be afraid to make friends in your classes – they might just become lifelong friends. I met one of my best friends during my time at AUT, as well as some other great lifelong friends. The culture at AUT is great, and everyone is so friendly and wants to get to know one another.”

Samuel Kafiar

Bachelor of Arts in International Studies

“I’ve loved connecting with AUT students with the same interests through the various clubs around campus. If you’re living in AUT student accommodation, the residential life programme also offers activities and events to facilitate interactions and friendships among students living here.”

Aleka Timog

Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Resolution

“After I transferred to AUT from another university, I felt anxious about making new friends and adapting to AUT’s modern approach. However, by volunteering for AUTSA, the AUT students’ association, and joining clubs like OUT@AUT, I immediately felt AUT’s warm, welcoming spirit.”

Terence Pohatu Waikite Thornton Apiata

Tuhoe, Ngati Awa, Te Whakatohea, Ngāpuhi
Bachelor of Health Science (Physiotherapy)

“The support services are there to support you through one of the most fun and challenging times of your life. Get to know the lecturers. They’re there to help you learn. If you’re a Māori student, you should also get to know the whānau at the Māori Liaison Services – they’ve got your back.”

Yuli Wang

Bachelor of Design in Digital Design

“I’d recommend not being shy in getting out of your comfort zone and making new friends. For example, I was part of the AUT student ambassador team and got to meet many amazing people. My advice is to join some clubs and activities, and enjoy your university life!”

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Making friends and overcoming loneliness

University is meant to be one of the most exciting times of your life, but it’s perfectly normal to feel homesick or lonely at some stage. Find out what you can do if you feel like this and where to get support:

Students gathering on AUT City campus

University language explained

As you start your journey at AUT, it’s a good idea to get to know the common words and phrases you’ll hear while studying here. Our glossary covers the AUT language you need to know.

AUT glossary

Download the AUT App

Stay up to date with what’s happening at AUT and download the AUT App. The app contains everything you need, including the latest news and upcoming events. You can download the app as soon as you receive your AUT network login.

Download the app from:

Make the most of your first semester

Two student supports smiling at AUT

Once you're at AUT, you can check out the events and workshops designed to help you get your uni life off to the best start.

See what’s on

Contact us

The Hub

Need help or have a question?

Contact the Student Hub throughout your studies at AUT.

Email: studenthub@aut.ac.nz
Phone: 0800 288 864
Contact us online

Hub hours