Program Overview

Introduction to Summer Start Programme

The Summer Start programme is a six and a half week programme designed for school-leavers, providing an opportunity to start their university journey early by completing one course as part of a Certificate of Proficiency to gain credits towards their degree.

Programme Details

• The programme allows students to experience life at the university, earn credits towards their degree, and get started on their academic journey.
• The focus of the programme is not just on academic preparation but also includes free, fun social and cultural activities outside of class time to help students settle into life on campus and meet new people.
• The programme is specifically designed for school-leavers and lets them earn credits towards their degree.

Programme Structure

• Summer Start classes are taught in the Summer School semester.
• In 2026, the dates for Summer School will be Monday 5 January 2026 through to Wednesday 18 February 2026.
• Classes will run from 5 January13 February 2026 with exams from 1618 February 2026.

Application and Admission

• Applications for Summer Start 2026 are open, and students can apply by completing an online Application to Study.
• When an application is submitted, the Admissions team will assess the application and send out any offers to the student's email address.
• Offers will be sent out from the beginning of November 2025, and students will be able to log back into their account to enrol for their chosen course after accepting an offer.
• Applications for Summer Start 2026 will close on 8 December 2025.

Programme Inclusions

• Enrolment in one credit-bearing course to help give students a head start in their university studies
• Access to Summer Start mentors who will provide academic, pastoral, and social support throughout the programme
• Additional study skill sessions to enable students to kick-start their University journey with an academic win
• Orientation around both the University and Auckland City
• Accommodation scholarships available in a First-Year Catered Hall
• Study, tutorial, and hangout spaces
• A variety of fun activities such as quizzes, challenges, crafts, sports, and events on and off campus to introduce students to university life
• An AT Hop card for travel to and from campus during the programme

Fees and Scholarships

• There is a cost for Summer Start courses, with fees generally in the range of $1000 - $1400 depending on the course selected.
• Course and student fees will be invoiced to students.
• All activity costs will be covered by the programme.
• Scholarships are available to help with fees and/or accommodation.

Eligibility and Requirements

• The Summer Start programme is only 6 weeks (less than 3 months), and international students who currently hold a valid visa in New Zealand may participate.
• Students must obtain the correct Student Visa for their intended full-time Bachelors studies at the University of Auckland before the programme begins.
• For entry into an undergraduate programme, students must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard.
• Completion and passing of a Summer School course is not a replacement for gaining University Entrance (UE).

Programme Completion and Next Steps

• Students who participate in Summer Start but do not achieve UE will be worked with by the Summer Start Team to explore appropriate options to continue their tertiary studies.
• These options could include pathway programmes such as the Tertiary Foundation Certificate.
• Students will be able to complete the Summer Start programme regardless of their UE status.

Difference Between Summer Start and Summer School

• Summer School is for existing University students, not school-leavers, who are looking to get ahead on their degree, catch-up on unsatisfactory performance in a previous semester, or spread their workload.
• Summer Start is a specific programme designed for school-leavers, focusing on academic preparation and social integration into university life.

General Education Courses

• General Education is designed to complement and broaden students education.
• Taking a General Education course during Summer Start is a great option for many students.
• Students can learn more about General Education and check against the schedules to see if the course they are interested in can be a General Education course for their chosen degree.

Code of Conduct

• All participants in Summer Start are required to follow and respect the same rules that apply to all enrolled students at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.
• Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in withdrawal from the Summer Start programme.