Study / Foundation Studies /
Applying for The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies (Level 3) is simple.
Applications can be made in person at our University of Auckland International College Auckland campus, online, or by filling out a hard copy application form and emailing or posting it to us.
The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies (Level 3) takes 6 to 12 months (two to four terms) to complete, depending on your academic background and level of English.
Foundation Connect is a comprehensive six-month extension programme that provides targeted preparation for Foundation. Students at the end of the 6-month Foundation Connect programme will be individually appraised to check that they have achieved the set criteria of entry into Standard Foundation.
Pathways Link Programme is a one-year programme will offer successful students entry into University of Auckland Foundation Studies programmes. There are two intakes in 2026 – February and July.
NOTE: Orientation is compulsory for all students to attend.
| Programme option | Duration | 2026 Intake dates | 2026 On Campus Orientation |
| Accelerated | 6 months (2 terms) | 2 February, 7 September | 27 January, 2 September |
| Fast-track | 8/9 months (3 terms) | 28 April, 5 October | 20 April, 28 September |
| Standard | 12 months (4 terms) | 2 February, 20 July | 27 January, 13 July |
| Foundation Connect | 6 months (2 terms) | 2 February, 28 April 20 July, 5 October | 27 January, 20 April 13 July, 28 September |
| Pathways Link Programme (PLP) | 12 months | 2 February, 20 July | 27 January, 13 July |
NOTE: The fees below are only for enrolments starting in 2026.
Information updated on 10th October 2025.
| Programme option | Tuition fees for International Students (NZD) | Tuition fees for Domestic Students (NZD) |
| Accelerated | $27,623 | $5,387.40 |
| Fast-track | $36,830 | $$7,183.20 |
| Standard | $36,830 | $7,183.20 |
| Foundation Connect* | $18,533 | $18,533 |
| Pathways Link Programme (PLP)* | $35,438 | $35,438 |
We also offer scholarships! Click here to learn more about the scholarships we offer.
| Additional fees | NZD |
| Enrolment fee** | $550 |
| Resource fee Foundation Connect Programme | $1,400 |
| Resource fee Pathways Link Programme | $2,300 |
| Medical and travel insurance (12 months)^ | $925 |
| University of Auckland Student Services Fee | Refer to the University website |
* Students starting with Foundation Connect / Pathways Link Programme will pay the Resource and Enrolment once and will not be charged again upon progression to Foundation.
** Domestic students enrolling in the University of Auckland Foundation Programme are not required to pay the enrolment fee.
^ International students must have comprehensive medical and travel insurance while in New Zealand. Enrolled international students will be charged Allianz’s Studentsafe Inbound University insurance premium when enrolment is completed. The final cost of insurance will depend on the length of requested insurance cover period.
