Get Set for ‘26
Get study ready in a day!
Whether you’ve already applied to study with us in 2026, you’re in the process of applying, or you’re just looking at your options, come along to Get Set for ‘26 and we’ll help you get sorted. Then you can kick back, enjoy summer and hit the ground running when your course starts next year!
🧾 Get it sorted
- Application assistance
- ID verification
- Portfolio pre-approval
- Course-specific workshops
- Subject-specific tours
- Study-Ready workshops
- Student finance
- Budgeting advice
- PPE familiarisation
- Pathway guidance
- Student life information
💡 Discover great student hacks
- Where to park
- Best coffee
- Low-cost lunch & dinner ideas
- On-campus deals (haircuts, beauty treatments, massage and more!)
💬 Talk with our guests
- StudyLink
- Budget Advisors
- Youth Services
🎉 Score some free stuff
- Free kai
- Prize draws
- Giveaways
Wednesday 3 December
Thursday 4 December
Tuesday 2 December
Starting Point/Pathway Programmes
Keen to study but not sure how to begin?
This session breaks down Ara’s open-entry and easy academic entry requirement programmes and shows you where they can take you - from starting out to future career pathways.
Student Life Hacks
Created by students, for students, this session covers everything our learners wish they knew on day one - from the best student freebies and discounts to flatting tips and how to set yourself up for study success.
How to Apply
This workshop walks you through the full application process - from hitting “apply” to what happens behind the scenes, plus how to make sure your place at Ara is confirmed.
Scholarships
Discover the scholarships you can apply for at Ara and get practical tips on how to write a strong application that gives you the best chance at extra study funding.
Student Services and Success planning
This session will introduce you to Ara’s key support teams — Student Support, Learning Services, and Disability Services — and show you how they can help you plan for success.
MTT – He Toki - Mihi
Build skills for work - at no cost - with He Toki.
He Toki is a Māori-led pathway for Māori aged 16-40, created with iwi, industry and community to grow the Māori workforce. You’ll be connected to the right programme for your goals and supported by tutors, whānau ora navigators and advisors throughout your journey. Strengthen your identity, build your skills and step confidently into employment.