Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) (UP Education)

Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) is a private tertiary education provider in Auckland, New Zealand established in 1990. It is a Category 1 NZQA approved provider, meaning it meets high national education quality standards. AIS offers a range of degree, diploma, and English language programmes designed to prepare students for professional careers in business, hospitality, IT, tourism and related industries.

AIS is known for small class sizes, personalised support, and a flexible three semester academic system, allowing students to potentially complete qualifications faster than traditional two semester models.

University Ranking

AIS is not a university but a private tertiary institution (PTE). It does not appear in global university rankings like QS or Times Higher Education because these rankings typically measure research universities, not vocational or specialised providers. However, AIS’s NZQA Category 1 status indicates high performance in educational quality and student outcomes within the New Zealand tertiary system.

Campus Locations

AIS has two main campuses in Auckland:

• St Helens Campus – Main campus set in a park like area in Mt Albert. It houses business, tourism, hospitality and language programmes and student support services like visa help, dormitories, cafeteria and library.

• Asquith Campus – A short walk from St Helens, focused on IT, business, tourism and hospitality programmes with labs, training cafeteria, gym and recreational facilities.

Types of Courses (Study Levels)

AIS offers a wide range of programmes at different levels:

Undergraduate & Graduate Qualifications

• Bachelor degrees in:

  • Business

  • Hospitality Management

  • Information Technology

  • Tourism Management

• Graduate Diplomas in:

  • Business

  • Hospitality

  • IT

  • Tourism

• Postgraduate Business Administration:

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PGDBA)

  • MBA (Master of Business Administration)

English Language Courses

• English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

• IELTS Preparation

• General English and Business English

Other Programmes

• Certificate of Proficiency (for specific skills)

• Online/Remote learning available for selected courses.

Mode of Learning

AIS delivers education in flexible formats:

• On campus learning in Auckland with practical labs and classroom teaching.

• Online/Remote learning available for students preferring to study from abroad or before relocation.

• Some courses may feature blended learning with a mix of on campus and online components.

Number of Programs Offered

AIS offers a diverse suite of qualifications, including:

• Bachelor degrees
• Graduate diplomas
• Postgraduate diplomas and MBA
• Diplomas and certificates
• English language programmes

Highlights of AIS

• NZQA Category 1 accreditation — highest quality rating by New Zealand Qualifications Authority (PTE providers).
• Multiple qualifications — from English language to postgraduate MBA.
• Flexible three semester system — fast track your study.
• Small class sizes and personalised learning — more faculty access and support.
• Strong student support services — including career services, job readiness and internship help.

Latest Updates

• In 2025, AIS celebrated its graduation for students across all academic programmes, reflecting ongoing academic activity and student success.
• The institute continues to offer 2026 prospectus and updated course portfolios with multiple entry points and flexible study options.
• New standard scholarships (15% tuition) are now being promoted for 2026 intakes.

Key Takeaways for International Students

• Well recognised vocational and degree education with NZQA quality assurance.
• Diverse programmes in business, IT, hospitality, tourism and English.
• Partial tuition scholarships and awards available for international students.
• Flexible study modes and semester system to accelerate graduation.

Scholarship

1. AIS International Scholarship

Scholarship Value

• 50% tuition fee reduction for the first year of study in eligible programmes.

Eligible Levels

Applies to international students enrolling in:

• Diploma programmes

• Bachelor degrees

• Graduate Diplomas

• Postgraduate Diplomas

• Master’s degrees (including MBA and MIT).

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this scholarship, students must:

• Be an international student
• Meet the standard entry requirements for the chosen AIS programme
• Submit a scholarship application
• Applications are reviewed on academic merit and demonstrated financial need.

Application Process

• Applications should be emailed to AIS before the deadline.

• Typical deadline: 4 weeks prior to the semester start.

• Applications received after the deadline are not considered.

• Successful applicants are notified approximately 2 weeks before semester commencement.

2. Academic Achievement Awards (International Students)

Scholarship Value

• Limited number of awards each semester

• Recognises outstanding academic results achieved while studying at AIS.

Eligibility

• Students must have completed at least one semester at AIS

• Demonstrate excellent academic performance.

How It Works

• No separate application is required — eligible students are automatically considered by AIS based on their academic results.

3. Alumni Scholarship (International Students)

Scholarship Value

• Partial funding support for students returning to AIS for further study.

Eligibility

• International students who have completed a programme at AIS

• Are enrolling in a new (higher level) programme at AIS.

Application

• Details and specific requirements are provided by AIS admissions (check the official scholarship page or contact AIS).

Important Notes (Based on Official Data)

• AIS does not only offer domestic scholarships — international students are eligible for the 50% tuition reduction and academic achievement awards.
• The official AIS scholarship page (on the AIS website) historically lists scholarships aimed primarily at New Zealand/Australia residents, but external verified sources confirm equivalent scholarships open to international applicants as well.

General Eligibility Requirements for AIS Scholarships

To be eligible for scholarships at AIS, international students generally must satisfy the following:

1. International Student Status

• Hold international student classification (not a NZ/Australia citizen or permanent resident).

2. Programme Admission

• Must hold a conditional or unconditional offer from AIS for the programme they intend to study.

3. Entry Requirements

• Meet both academic entry and English language requirements for the specific programme.

4. Supporting Documents

When applying for scholarships, students typically must include:

• Academic transcripts from previous study

• A personal statement or motivation letter

• Evidence of financial need (if required)

• Passport details (for international identification).

Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Chances

• Start Early: Apply before deadlines — late applications are usually not accepted.
• Strong Personal Statement: Clearly articulate your academic goals and why you deserve the award.
• Academic Excellence: Strong prior academic performance improves selection chances.
• Professional Documentation: Provide complete, error?free documents and include financial need statements when appropriate.