In the beautiful harbor city of Tamaki Makaurau/Auckland, the University of Auckland is the highest ranked New Zealand university. Founded in 1883, the university is the country’s largest, with over 40,000 students, and a pre-eminent research-led institution. Gifted with the new Maori name Waipapa Taumata Rau, this is a place where diverse world views are shared and lifelong journeys of inquiry, learning, and service begin.
University of Auckland Language Standalone Program









About the Program
Program Advisor

At a Glance
Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad
Former SAF Scholar
I made several good friends during my stay in the host university. Basically, it was a really fascinating and exhilarating experience that I would really want to have more.
University of Auckland SAF Alumni

About the University
University of Auckland
New Zealand’s largest and highest ranked university in the QS World Rankings, University of Auckland grew out of its 1883 college of 95 students and four professors to nurture, inspire, and transform tens of thousands of students each year from across New Zealand, Asia-Pacific, and the world. Auckland Uni was the birthplace of programming language R, popular with statisticians and data scientists, and enjoyed economy research and lectures led by Phillips-curve founder William Phillips, the influential economist. Still today teachers at University of Auckland create a vibrant atmosphere in both on- and offline lectures and classes, encouraging active participation and lively discussion that drives students towards success and deepens respect for the essence of what makes people different.
Learn more at the University of Auckland's official website.
Academics

University of Auckland's Academic Approach
The University of Auckland conducts teaching and learning in eight faculties, two large-scale research institutes, and specialist centers that enable cross-disciplinary research.
Home to the largest and most highly ranked science faculty in New Zealand and one of the best law schools in the world, it is also a respected center for creativity, research, teaching, and practice across a wide range of disciplines.
Even digitally, you study with faculty who promise an unconditional commitment to quality teaching and research in topics that are forward-focused and relevant to your future career.
Courses
- SAF students will be taking classes from General English program.
- Students are tested on the first day of the program to determine the level of classes for registration.
- The courses focus on improving student’s ability to communicate in English in social and work situations. Students will also gain English proficiency required for further academic studies at the university level.
- The curriculum is comprised of classes in speaking, listening, reading, and writing tasks. Students learn these language skills through various class activities, individual, in pairs and in a group.
- For students who enter at the intermediate level or above, they can choose an elective class in Communication skills, Business English, and IELTS preparation.
- Enrollment hours: 20 class hours per week
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Application Requirements
The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
Language Test Score Requirements
It is highly recommend that students have met the English language proficiency level that is equivalent to the following test scores at the time of application. If a student does not have an official language report, they will be tested on their first day of class to determine the class level. However, if the student is tested into a lower level than the scores provided below, they will not be able to join the program.
IELTS: 3.5
TOEFL iBT: 20
CEFR Level A1
Program Dates
When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.
The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.
Fall 2023
Program dates:
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
Housing Information

Homestay
The SAF homestay program fee covers a homestay with a friendly, local family. You may share the living space, kitchen, and laundry facilities, which is the perfect opportunity to practice your language skills.
*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.
Orientation
Advising and Support
The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it.
Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.
Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad
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Why Travel With SAF?
Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.
