Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a women in engineering network?

Yes we do. The Women in Engineering Network (WEN) builds connections between women studying at the Faculty of Engineering through social activities, professional development opportunities and forums for academic support. 

What is a GPA?

The GPA stands for 'Grade Point Average', and is commonly used in universities worldwide. Each grade you achieve corresponds to a numerical value, which are then added together and divided by the number of courses you've attempted. Find out more about GPA calculation at the University of Auckland.

How do I get placed in a specialisation?

The good news is that you don't have to worry about this right away! Towards the end of their first year, all students who meet Part II entry requirements will be asked to rank their top choices out of the nine engineering specialisations. Entry can be strictly limited and you will be allocated based on your GPA in Part I. Find out more about this process. 

Can I do more than one specialisation?

No. Engineering students are only allowed to undertake one specialisation.

What if I don’t meet the guaranteed entry rank score, but got high results in calculus and physics?

You are still welcome to apply. Applications that do not meet the guaranteed entry requirements will still be assessed. You may be admitted to the BE(Hons) based on your grades, subject background and spaces available.

What if I am not accepted into Engineering from my first application?

You can consider alternative pathways. Read more about our alternative entry pathways.

What if I don’t meet English requirements, and I am a domestic student?

From 2016, the University introduced an Academic English Language Requirement (AELR) into all its bachelor's degree programmes. The aim of the AELR is to ensure you have a sufficient level of competence in academic English to support your study at University. This requirement will not affect whether you are offered a place in a programme. If you do not meet the AELR requirement on entry to the University, it can be met through the completion of an approved course in your first 12 months of study. For more information, please see Academic English Language Requirements.

Can I do an exchange?

Yes. Exchange programmes to other universities can be arranged through 360 International. 

What is ENGGEN 199?

This is an English language competency course and a compulsory element of all our University's bachelor programmes, including the first year of your BE(Hons). Find out more about our compulsory BE(Hons) components.

I’m doing the ACE homeschool programme – what are the requirements?

Please apply and it will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. There have been a number of successful applicants coming from ACE. 

Can I start a conjoint after Part I?

Yes, students may begin a conjoint after Part I. However, a conjoint must be started before 270 points have been completed in the BEHON, so the latest that most BE(Hons) students can start a conjoint is by the beginning of Part III. 

Can I change back to a single BE(Hons) degree after studying a conjoint?

Yes, Engineering conjoint students may transfer from a conjoint to the single BE(Hons) degree at any time.

Is there restricted entrance to the Honours year?

No, every student who meets the requirements for Part III will be able to move on to Part IV, or the Honours year.

Do I need to take chemistry if I want to do chemical and materials?

No, the only requirements for entry into the BE(Hons) are Calculus and Physics.

If I apply for two programmes and one gets accepted, does that mean my other is declined?

No, however students will generally only go ahead with one programme.

What is the difference between Mechanical and Mechatronics?

• Mechanical focuses on design, production and operation of mechanical devices, machinery and systems. 
• Mechatronics integrates mechanical design, electronics, computer systems and software to design and develop automated systems.

I'm a bit nervous about Auckland's big city life.

The big city can be a little scary at first, but we have plenty of support available! Learn more about essentials, such as accommodation.