New Start overview

Over 20 and thinking of coming to university? New Start is a part-time preparation and bridging programme.

It's a realistic introduction to your first year with us. The courses include study skills and are made up of an academic integrity course, lectures, tutorials, workshops, assignments with feedback and in-class tests.

Through New Start, you can:

• Assess your academic ability and improve your study skills
• Study part-time on day or evening courses
• Discover what university is all about
• Gain an insight into various subjects to make an informed choice for further study
• Meet experienced university lecturers and tutors

• You must be 20 years or over 
• A New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
• You also need a good standard of English

We welcome everyone with the potential and drive to succeed. Many people possess significant capabilities and skills that are not reflected in their academic performance. We encourage you to apply for New Start university admission.

Application closing date:

• Semester Two: 26 June 2026

On successful completion of New Start, you may apply for admission into undergraduate degrees in Arts and Education, Business and Economics, Law, Design and Urban Planning, and Science (all majors except Biomedical Science and Food and Nutrition Science), subject to meeting the minimum entry requirements.

Read more about the grades you need for particular degree programmes. 

Note:

• If the degree you plan to study in the future is not listed in the entry requirements (such as Architecture, Engineering, Medicine, Nursing and other science-based degree programmes) we recommend you apply for the Tertiary Foundation Certificate.  
• New Start students are not eligible to apply for conjoint degree study or for Summer School in their first year of study at the University of Auckland.