Our UniPrep programme

UniPrep is AUT’s university preparation programme offered over the summer break at our South Campus in Manukau. It’s designed to ease you into university life and ensure you get the best possible start. Our Indigenous-led programme honours ancestral connections across Te-Moana-nui-a-Kiwa (the Pacific Ocean). Once you're part of our UniPrep whānau, just know – we got you!

What to expect at UniPrep

Expect to advance your study skills, make lifelong friends, take part in team activities, find out where to get support for your studies and complete your first university course. We’re confident that by the end of UniPrep, you’ll be ready for university and the adventures that lay ahead.

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Key facts about our free UniPrep programme

_{*We encourage all interested students to apply whether they meet these criteria or not.}

Hear from other UniPrep students

Phoenix Petelo

Ngāti Hine, Ngāpuhi, Samoa

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biological Science

“I started my AUT journey by enrolling in UniPrep, which was one of the key highlights of my year. Through the programme I was able to transition from high school to university without any trouble. The programme ran for only five weeks, preparing fresh-minded school leavers for what life at AUT has to offer and the kind of lively faces the university is made up of. Because of UniPrep I was able to make long-lasting friends with the people I met.”

Fine Na’akakala ‘E Moala Aholelei

Tonga

Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Social Sciences, Master of Education

“Unlike other students I had no idea what the university experience entailed, from simple things like how an academic semester is structured to more complicated aspects of university life like scholarship and StudyLink applications. UniPrep acted as a platform that enabled my 18-year-old self to transition into university with knowledge, experience and a support system. The thought of university can be scary, but AUT and the UniPrep team made me feel safe and like I mattered.”

Kahlen Gray

Samoa, Ngai Tūhoe

Bachelor of Education (Primary Teaching)

“I’d honestly recommend UniPrep to everyone who is feeling anxious about university. UniPrep eased my stress significantly because the programme took the time to introduce Canvas, Microsoft 365 and other new applications we would be using, as well as what uni assignments would look like and what would be required of me. I felt much more prepared and confident when I started my education degree compared to many of my classmates.”

Riku Aupouri

Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki, Ngāti Wāhia

Certificate in Sport and Recreation, Bachelor of Sport and Recreation

“UniPrep gives you a better understanding of what to expect at AUT – from academic expectations to campus life. I found it helpful for developing essential skills like time management and study techniques, which helped boost my confidence for the upcoming semester. The workshops and materials we were offered helped us develop critical skills and self-assurance. It's a fantastic way to meet new people, learn new things, and create unforgettable memories.”

Grace Ulu

Samoa

Bachelor of Communication Studies in Public Relations

“Reflecting on my time at UniPrep, I realise that my confidence grew significantly, which I attribute to the Māori and Pasifika villages surrounding me. It taught me the importance of uplifting and empowering those around us, especially those marginalised. It's not just a matter of giving people opportunities but also about equipping them with the tools and mindset to believe they're worthy of receiving them.”

Te Ata Tu Harmer-Matairangi (Ata)

Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Tuwharetoa

Bachelor of Business in Management with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

“After completing high school I knew that the UniPrep programme would be an opportunity to better prepare myself for university. AUT was a big step from secondary school but UniPrep was a bridge that helped me before my first semester started. I knew who the lecturers were, where to go on campus and how to do academic references, so I felt comfortable transitioning into tertiary spaces.”

Watch our video to see what UniPrep is like