University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university with a broad range of undergraduate subjects. It is also the largest and most comprehensive university in New Zealand. Its student population numbers 35,000 and includes 9,350 international students representing around 107 countries as of 2023.

The University of Auckland can be found in the heart of its namesake city at top of New Zealand's North Island. Its City Campus is centrally-located and within easy access of cultural, entertainment and commercial hubs. The City Campus boasts a variety amenities including cafes, health services, libraries and a recreation centre.

Available exchanges

The University of Auckland hosts the University-wide exchange.

Restrictions

Auckland provides detailed guidance on course options for exchange students. Scroll to the bottom of the following website to find information on course restrictions:

Auckland incoming exchange course options 

Your responsibilities

  • The information provided here serves as a guide.
  • It is your responsibility to research whether the partner provides appropriate courses for your degree programme.
  • Even if there are no restrictions on your degree subject, this does not mean that there are appropriate courses for you.  

Exchange students are considered “non-degree” students at Auckland and are enrolled in the COPEX (Certificate of Proficiency for Exchange) programme. Students can select courses across different disciplines, provided they meet prerequisites and the courses are not restricted. For more information and to view Auckland's course catalogue, please visit the links below:

Auckland course catalogue 

Auckland course advice and information

Auckland academic guide for exchange students


Guaranteed accommodation?

Yes. 

University accommodation is guaranteed to all incoming exchange students, as long as you submit an accommodation application by the priority consideration deadline. Please note this may mean you need to apply before your exchange application is accepted by Auckland. Please consider the implications of this, especially if applying for accommodation involves non-refundable costs.

Applications will still be considered after the priority deadline; however, placements cannot be guaranteed.  

Auckland accommodation guarantee

University accommodation  

Auckland offers a range of accommodation options for exchange students to suit your preferences and budget.  

University accommodation is a great way to immerse yourself in campus life as you adjust to a new environment. From single rooms in shared apartments to private studios, Auckland's self-catered and catered residences offer students the opportunity to live within a thriving campus community. 

Exchange students who want to apply for University accommodation must do so online. Students are most often placed in a single room within self-catered and mix-gender accommodation unless they request special arrangements. 

Auckland accommodation website

Auckland accommodation options for exchange students 

Private accommodation

Auckland offers advice for sourcing private accommodation at the link below:

Living and studying in Auckland – University of Auckland


How much it will cost to go on exchange to Auckland? 

You will need to consider establishment costs, which may include buying furniture, paying a rental bond, and setting up electricity, gas and mobile phone accounts. Other expenses, such as visa and medical fees (see ‘Health insurance’, below), as well as return airfares, should also be considered. Remember that exchange rate variations may also affect your budget. 

You can find information on the costs of an exchange at Auckland on their website:

Auckland exchange costs and fees

For a further breakdown of living costs, please also see the page below:

Cost of living in Auckland 

Visa considerations

Visit Immigration New Zealand to check the cost and requirements of an exchange student visa: 

Health insurance

All international students are required to have appropriate health and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand. Auckland has selected the Studentsafe University policy as its preferred policy:

Auckland Studentsafe university policy

The insurance fee must be paid by exchange students, unless you are granted an insurance waiver for an alternative policy.  The University of Edinburgh's travel insurance policy has previously been approved as a suitable waiver, but this may be subject to change.  Students are advised to follow the waiver application guidance shared below:

Auckland insurance waiver information


Auckland's academic calendar can be viewed at the link below:

University Calendar – University of Auckland


Auckland has provided the following document for prospective exchange students.