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; all as part of our five-week UniPrep university preparation programme.

You’ll be placed into whānau groups, and each group will have its own Pou Whirinaki (student mentor) and teaching assistant. By the end of UniPrep, you’ll be ready for university and your new life in 2025.

What UniPrep covers

  • Completing a first university course, Uni101
  • Key academic skills and what is expected to study at university
  • First-hand experience of university life, facilities and support services
  • Interactive team activities focused on problem-solving and collaboration skills
  • Cultural activities to help you build a strong and supportive network, and feel a sense of belonging
  • Practical skills related to university, including setting up a bank account and applying for a student loan

Uni101: Completing a first university course

One of the key aspects of UniPrep is the course Uni101; a chance to complete your very first course at a university. This helps you develop the important study skills you’ll need for university – from how to express your ideas at university level and write at an academic level, to how to manage your time effectively and where to find support for your studies.

What your week will look like

UniPrep runs from 23 January to 28 February 2025, Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to 3.30pm. This is what you can expect each week:

Three one-hour lectures and six hours of tutorial sessions a week, plus interactive activities

Free lunch every day

Self-study time outside of class to complete readings, online learning activities and assessments

All the support you need to thrive at university

As a UniPrep student you’ll access to a wide range of support services to help you transition to this exciting new chapter of your life:

  • Course and career counselling: Our expert team can guide you to match your studies with your long-term career goals
  • Academic mentoring and tutoring: Personalised support is available, including guidance on assignments, study techniques and exam preparation
  • Peer support network: You’ll be connected with peer mentors who provide guidance, offer support and share their own experiences
  • Wellbeing and counselling services: Our wellbeing advisors help you manage stress, stay motivated and maintain a healthy balance between your studies and personal life
  • Study skills workshops: Essential skills like time management, effective notetaking, academic writing and research strategies are covered to help you feel prepared for university-level study
  • Financial and administrative assistance: Our team offers guidance on how to apply for scholarships, student loans or student allowances, where to get financial support and provides advice on practical life administration tasks
  • Cultural and spiritual support services: Dedicated cultural and spiritual advisors help you stay connected to your heritage and beliefs, and navigate the university environment in a way that honours your cultural identity and community
  • Disability support: Students with disabilities or learning challenges can access tailored support to help them make the most of their studies.
  • Career planning and advice: You can access a range of resources and workshops to plan your academic and career pathways.

Ready to apply for UniPrep?

Don’t miss out! Apply today to secure your place and start university with confidence.

Apply now

Contact us

Any questions about the UniPrep programme? To find out more email uniprep@aut.ac.nz. We’re more than happy to help you out.

Journey with us: follow us on social media

Don't forget to check out our social media channels for the latest from the UniPrep team.

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Information for parents and whānau

Download the whanau guide

Download our UniPrep Whānau Guide to see why your loved one should do UniPrep if they’re planning to attend university.

DOWNLOAD GUIDE