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Study in New Zealand

Admissions, documents, English requirements and everything else you need to know before studying in New Zealand.

Frequently asked questions

To get admission to a university in New Zealand, you need to apply directly to the institution of your choice and apply for a student visa (if required) through Immigration New Zealand.

Here are the general steps:

  • Choose your preferred course and university.
  • Submit an application to the institution (you may need to submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, and proof of English proficiency).
  • Receive and accept an offer of admission (you will receive an Offer of Place).
  • Apply for a student visa through Immigration New Zealand.
  • Receive your student visa approval and prepare to start your studies.

Key requirements may include:

  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).
  • Academic qualifications (such as high school certificates or previous degrees).
  • Proof of financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.
  • Health and travel insurance (often required by New Zealand institutions).

To apply for a student visa and admission to New Zealand universities, the following documents are typically required:

  • Completed university application form.
  • Offer of Place from the institution.
  • Valid passport.
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living costs.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
  • Completed student visa application form.
  • Health insurance (required for international students).

Most New Zealand universities require proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers. The common scores accepted are:

  • IELTS: Generally, a minimum score of 6.0 overall is required for undergraduate programs and 6.5 or higher for postgraduate programs.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 for undergraduate programs and 90-100 for postgraduate programs is typically required.

New Zealand universities accept the following English language tests for admission:

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
  • Cambridge English Exams (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)

While the visa itself does not set specific IELTS or TOEFL requirements, you must meet the English proficiency requirements of your chosen university. Generally, for English-taught programs, you need:

  • At least 6.0 overall in IELTS or 80 in TOEFL iBT for undergraduate programs.
  • At least 6.5 overall in IELTS or 90 in TOEFL iBT for postgraduate programs.

University of Auckland
IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs
TOEFL: Minimum 80 for undergraduate and 90 for postgraduate

University of Otago
IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs
TOEFL: Minimum 80 for undergraduate and 95 for postgraduate

Victoria University of Wellington
IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs
TOEFL: Minimum 80 for undergraduate and 90 for postgraduate

University of Canterbury
IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs
TOEFL: Minimum 80 for undergraduate and 90 for postgraduate

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