International student applications

Apply well before the semester starts

• Check the start date for your chosen programme on the AUT website. Note if there are any application deadlines
• Most programmes will start in both Semester 1 and Semester 2 each year. However some programmes only start date at the beginning of the year and some postgraduate programmes also start in October or have other start dates throughout the year
• You can apply at any time for research-only programmes including:
  • Master of Philosophy
  • Doctor of Philosophy
  • Master of Engineering

AUT semester dates

Allow time to get a visa and travel to New Zealand

We recommend you apply as early as possible to allow for visa processing and travel to New Zealand.

Visit the Immigration New Zealand website to check if you need a visa. It is your responsibility to have the correct AUT visa to complete your enrolment.

Immigration NZ website

International applicants living in New Zealand

If you are living in New Zealand and hold a current student visa, your application will be processed up to the start of the semester if places are available in the programme.

It is your responsibility to have the correct AUT visa to complete your enrolment. Access to services will not be permitted if enrolment is not complete.

How to submit your application

• Apply online
• Apply through an AUT registered agent

You need to indicate your programme(s) of choice and major. Initially we will process your first preference programme only. If you would like your other preferences assessed then please contact our International Admissions team (details above).

Check that you have completed all sections in full and included all required official documentation. Incomplete information will slow down the application process.

Apply online

We acknowledge your application

We’ll send you an acknowledgment email/letter, which explains how to check the status of your application. We’ll contact you if we need more information.

We assess your application to ensure you have met the entry criteria for the programme(s) you are applying for. We consider your academic history and relevant experience to make sure you can succeed in your programme.

We’ll let you know if your application has been successful.

Processing times (guide only)

• One week for undergraduate applications
• Four weeks for postgraduate applications
• Credit transfer (recognition of prior learning applications) will also take longer

These processing times are only a guide. The actual times vary according to programme.

Cross-credit your experience: recognition of prior learning

If your application is successful

You will receive an Offer of Place letter, which includes:

• Information about tuition and other compulsory fees
• Insurance
• When and how to pay your fees
• Student visas
• Where to find a copy of AUT’s refund policy

If you applied through an AUT registered agent all correspondence will be sent to them.

To accept your Offer of Place: sign and date the Acceptance of Offer form and return it by the due date.

Receiving an Offer of Place does not guarantee your place – to guarantee your place you must pay all fees in full by the due date. Places are subject to availability.

If all places in the programme are taken when you decide to pay the fees and accept the Offer of Place, we will offer you a place in the next available intake.

If you can’t start at AUT for the semester stated on your offer, apply for a deferral.

We will send you an official receipt once we have received your payment. You need to present this receipt to the nearest Immigration New Zealand office along with a copy of your Offer of Place to get a student permit/visa.

Payment options for international students

Student ID cards for international students (on student website)