There are many interesting and exciting education options in New Zealand, which means that you will need to conduct careful research to see which course, institution and study location is best for you.
Applying to educational institutions in New Zealand is simple, but it requires careful planning and can take some time.
Language requirements
To be eligible to study in New Zealand as a student your course must meet the New Zealand requirements for international students. Universities prefer applicants with a very good academic background and decent scores in TOEFL or IELTS for admission Postgraduate and Masters Programmes may vary between Faculties, Applicants may also be required to provide evidence of relevant work/research experience. For postgraduate applications where the student will be undertaking a thesis, a research proposal will be required.
Required Tests
New Zealand colleges and universities accept either TOEFL or IELTS scores as proof of English proficiency.
IELTS (Academic) score | Overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 or overall 5.5 with no band less than 5.0 |
TOEFL score | Paper-based total score of 550 with minimum of 4.0 in Test of Written English. A computer-based total score of 213 with a minimum Essay rating of 4.0. Internet-based total score of 80. |
IELTS (Academic) score | Overall band score of 6.5 & band score of 6.0 in all bands |
TOEFL score | Paper-based total score of 575 with minimum of 4.5 in Test of Written English Computer-based total score of 233 with minimum Essay rating of 4.5 or |
The main intake every year commences in Jun-July, Dec-Jan.
Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics have two semesters – February to June and July to November – with holidays similar to secondary schools. Some half-year courses start in July.
Each university has its own timetable but generally, the year is split into 2 semesters of about 12 weeks each, with a 2-week break during the semester and a 6-week break in the middle of the year. The breaks are not necessarily holidays – you may need the time for research and study.
Some universities offer summer school courses from November to February, which reduces the number of years it takes to complete a degree.