Undergraduate Targeted Admission Scheme (UTAS) for Part II Law

The Undergraduate Targeted Admission Scheme (UTAS) provides an alternative entry pathway for admission into LLB Part II for eligible applicants.

Note: UTAS is only available to domestic students. International students are not eligible for this pathway.

Find more information on the University's Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.

Eligibility requirements

To be considered for UTAS, you must:

1. Submit an Application for LLB Part II via Apply to Study by the deadline
2. Complete the relevant UTAS application form(s)
3. Meet all LLB Part II eligibility requirements

You must also be: 

• A domestic student (New Zealand or Australian Citizen, or New Zealand permanent resident)

Transfer applicants:

• Only applicants who have completed first-year Law (Part I or equivalent) may be considered.
• Applicants who have already been admitted into second-year Law (Part II) at another New Zealand law school are not eligible for UTAS, except under Discretionary Hardship.

Important:

• International students are not eligible for UTAS pathways.
• All requirements must be met. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Applying for UTAS does not replace your LLB Part II application.

UTAS categories and Discretionary Hardship

There are five UTAS pathways available alongside Discretionary Hardship. You may apply for more than one category, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

Pathway Description Supporting documentation
Students
with disabilities		 Students whose academic performance has been affected by a recognised disability, impairment, or ongoing medical condition.
  • Registration with Student Disability Services (SDS)

If not registered, provide:

  • Medical documentation from a qualified health professional
  • A written explanation for not being registered
Students from refugee backgrounds Students from a refugee background (you or your parents/primary guardian(s) have been granted refuge in Aotearoa New Zealand).
  • Official documentation confirming refugee status
  • Proof of relationship (if applicable)
  • Name change documentation (if relevant)
Māori students For students who are of Māori whakapapa.
  • Whakapapa verification (certification or testimonial)
  • Evidence of involvement with community and the MAP Programme
  • Applicants will be invited to an interview.
Moana Oceania
students
 For students who identify as Indigenous Moana Oceania/Pacific Island descent.
  • Confirmation of ancestry
  • Evidence of involvement with community and the MAI Programme
  • Applicants will be invited to an interview.
Students from low socio-economic backgrounds (LSEB) School leavers (in their first year after secondary school) who attended a decile 1–3 school. No separate application required. Eligible students are automatically considered.

Note: Some categories may require further information. Please check the UTAS application forms carefully.

GPA adjustments and special consideration

If your academic results do not accurately reflect your performance due to exceptional circumstances, you may apply for GPA-related adjustments or special consideration.

These options are separate from UTAS and are assessed individually.

Pathway Description  Supporting documentation 
GPA Variation If your recent study does not reflect your usual performance due to extenuating circumstances, you may request a GPA Variation to exclude affected courses from your Law GPA.
  • Personal statement outlining circumstances
  • Supporting documentation (e.g. medical or other relevant evidence)
Discretionary
Hardship		 Students who have experienced exceptional and unforeseen circumstances beyond their control, which have impacted their ability to meet the minimum Law GPA.
  • Personal statement outlining circumstances
  • Supporting documentation (e.g. medical or other relevant evidence)

Application process

UTAS applications open in Semester Two. Information and application links will be shared via Canvas.

After the application deadline:

  • Applications are reviewed to ensure they are complete and meet eligibility requirements
  • Eligible applications are assessed by the Sub Selection Committee
  • Each application is considered on a case-by-case basis

We are unable to provide updates on individual applications while they are under review.

Places and selection

Places under each UTAS category are limited.

Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements for LLB Part II does not guarantee admission, either through UTAS or General Admission.

You may be contacted if further information is required to support your application.

Outcome

Applicants will be notified of the outcome in December, at the same time as LLB Part II results.

  • If you receive an offer, you will be informed whether your place was awarded through UTAS or General Admission.
  • If your LLB Part II application is unsuccessful, your UTAS application will also be unsuccessful.

Appeals

If you wish to appeal the outcome of your application, you may do so in accordance with the Faculty’s appeal process.

Further information, including grounds for appeal and deadlines, will be provided with your outcome email.

Important information

  • UTAS applications must be submitted by the specified deadline (late applications are not accepted).
  • You can apply for multiple UTAS categories if eligible.
  • Faculty staff are unable to provide support with writing applications.
  • There is no direct entry from secondary school into LLB Part II.
  • You must first complete all LLB Part I requirements alongside another degree programme.
  • UTAS is only available to domestic students. International students are not eligible.

UTAS requirements for Law students are subject to change each year.

Further information and support

For advice or assistance, please contact:

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