Certificate of University Preparation - Frequently Asked Questions
- Am I eligible for Student Loans and Allowance?
- How do I know if I am enrolled at Wintec or the University fo Waikato?
- Will the CUP give me entry to any degree?
- I left school with no NCEA qualifications - can I still apply?
- How much will it cost?
- What level is the course? Is it the same as Year 13?
- What is the Timetable?
- Can I stay in the Halls of Residence?
- How do I find out where to go on the first day?
- How Do I Enrol?
Am I eligible for Student Loans and Allowances?
You must contact StudyLink directly for advice - phone 0800 88 99 00 or visit StudyLink or a StudyLink Office. The closest office to the University is the Hamilton East Office in Grey Street. You can make an appointment to see staff there.
You may be eligible to apply for student loans and allowances StudyLink will confirm your eligibility. You must advise Studylink if your enrolment provider changes from the University of Waikato to Wintec.
How do I know if I am enrolled at Wintec or the University of Waikato?
Your information will be held at both institutions as this is a jointly offered programme. However, for StudyLink purposes you must know who your fees are being paid to. The document we send you with your "offer of place" on the Certificate of University Preparation programme will confirm your primary provider for StudyLink purposes. Please advise StudyLink if you change from the University of Waikato to Wintec (note that all classes are held at the University of Waikato in Hillcrest.)
Will the CUP give me entry to any degree?
Successful completion of the CUP will give you an equivalent qualification to University Entrance and is recognised by all New Zealand universities and Institutes of Technology. You will be eligible to apply for Bachelor degrees, though you will have to meet any programme-specific requirements and go through any selection processes that might apply.
I left school with no NCEA qualifications -- can I still apply?
Yes, please apply. Every application is looked at on a case-by-case basis. In the application form there is a page where you must write a student statement. This is your opportunity to tell us about any work or life experience that has brought you to the point where you want to join us at the University. Unpaid work is just as important as paid work experience.
How much will it cost?
For the full four paper programme, the cost is approximately $2500.00
This includes the tuition fees for the paper(s), compulsory fees that every student pays for access to campus facilities and student services, and the Waikato Student Union fee.
What Level is the course? Is it the same level as Year 13?
The level is pre-degree, so for some parts of the programme, it is similar to Year 13. The main difference is the adult learning environment, which has a flexible timetable of lectures, tutorials and workshops that cover mornings, afternoons and evenings. You have access to learning support and library resources, and the content is geared to prepare you for success at university.
What is the Timetable?
Your timetable will depend on the papers you choose. You must attend the lectures at the times listed, and then you select tutorials and workshops to fit around these. You can select your tutorials and workshops during your first week. You can check available times on the online timetable timetable You can also change your paper choices after you have enrolled up to two weeks after the course start date. Please phone 0800 WAIKATO if you need help.
Can I stay in the Halls of Residence
Yes, if there are places available. You need to apply NOW. Phone 0800 WAIKATO for a Halls brochure and application form. The Accommodation Service can also help you find other accommodation. They are located off the large Gate 1 car park, between Student Village and Bryant Hall.
How do I find out where to go on the first day?
You will be sent a letter with your timetable and orientation information. Orientation has been scheduled for the first compulosry lecture on Monday 5 March 2012.
How do I enrol?
Phone 0800 WAIKATO (0800 924 528) to enrol or apply online



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