Study MBBS in New Zealand: Your Journey to a Prestigious Medical Career
Explore top medical schools, visa processes, and career opportunities for international students in New Zealand.
Study MBBS in New Zealand: Your Journey to a Prestigious Medical Career
Explore top medical schools, visa processes, and career opportunities for international students in New Zealand.
Study MBBS in New Zealand
New Zealand boasts one of the highest doctor-to-patient ratios in the world, with approximately 3.7 doctors per 1,000 people. This impressive statistic reflects the country's commitment to quality healthcare and medical education.
MBBS in New Zealand is a highly sought-after program, offering world-class facilities, excellent research opportunities, and a curriculum designed to produce highly skilled medical professionals
MBBS in New Zealand Highlights
Here are the detailed highlights of MBBS in New Zealand :
Aspect |
Details |
Course Duration | Type |
6 years | Full time |
Tuition Fee |
INR 16,50,000 - INR 1,05,00,000 (NZD 33,000 - NZD 210,000) |
Admission Criteria |
10 years of education + ELP scores + Entrance / interview |
ELP Tests Accepted |
IELTS / TOEFL / CAE / PTE Academic |
Entrance Accepted |
UCAT NZ |
Scholarships |
Available |
MBBS in New Zealand Eligibility & Requirements
To pursue an MBBS in New Zealand, international students must meet several academic and non-academic criteria. Here are the essential eligibility requirements:
Academic Prerequisites:
- Completion of 10+2 or equivalent education with a strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- High academic performance in relevant subjects.
Age Limits:
- Generally, no specific age limit, but applicants must meet all academic and examination requirements.
Required Examinations:
- UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand) is mandatory.
English Proficiency Tests:
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
- TOEFL PBT: Minimum score of 550
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58
Documents:
- Transcripts of previous education
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Valid passport
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Health and character certificates (if required by the university)
Nationality-Specific Information for Indian Students:
- Completion of 10+2 education with a focus on science subjects
- Meeting the specified English language proficiency scores
- Successful completion of entrance examinations (UCAT ANZ) and interviews
By meeting these requirements, students can enhance their chances of securing admission to prestigious MBBS programs in New Zealand.
Related Article: Intakes In New Zealand
MBBS Admission Process in New Zealand
Here is a step-by-step guide to the admission process for MBBS in New Zealand:
Research and Prepare:
- Research the MBBS programs offered by universities in New Zealand.
- Ensure eligibility by reviewing academic prerequisites, required examinations, and other criteria.
Complete Prerequisite Courses:
- For the University of Auckland: Complete 08 core courses under BHSc or BSc Biomedical Science full-time in the year of application.
- For the University of Otago: Complete the Health Sciences First Year Course, achieving at least 70% in each course on the first attempt.
Take Required Examinations:
- Register for and take the UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand).
- Take an English proficiency test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic, if applicable.
Gather Required Documents:
- Collect transcripts of previous education.
- Obtain proof of English language proficiency.
- Prepare letters of recommendation and a personal statement.
- Ensure a valid passport and other necessary identification documents are ready.
Submit Applications:
- Apply online through the university's application portal.
- Pay the application fee and submit all required documents.
Application Review:
- The university admissions office reviews applications based on academic performance, UCAT ANZ scores, and other criteria.
Interview Invitation:
- Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview (for the University of Auckland, this includes a multi-mini interview).
Attend Interview:
- Prepare for and attend the interview, focusing on communication skills, critical thinking, and motivation for studying medicine.
Receive Admission Decision:
- Admission decisions are typically based on a combination of GPA, UCAT ANZ scores, and interview performance.
- Successful applicants will receive an offer of admission.
Accept Offer and Enrol:
- Accept the offer by the specified deadline.
- Complete the enrollment process, including payment of tuition fees and submission of any additional required documentation.
Prepare for Arrival:
- Apply for a student visa.
- Arrange accommodation and travel to New Zealand.
- Attend orientation sessions and begin the MBBS program.
MBBS Intakes in New Zealand
In New Zealand, several top-ranked universities offer MBBS programs with three intakes: February, July, and Rolling Intakes. These intakes provide flexibility for students to study MBBS in New Zealand at various times throughout the year.
March/April |
Research & Choose Program: Begin searching for universities and programs for the upcoming July intake. |
May – June |
Gather Documents: Collect transcripts, test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and other required documents. |
July – August |
Submit Applications: Review deadlines and submit applications to selected universities. |
August – September |
Wait for Offers: Universities will review applications and send acceptance offers. |
October – November |
Accept Offer & Secure Funding: Choose a university, confirm the spot, and secure any necessary financial aid or scholarships. |
December – January |
Apply for a Visa: Begin the student visa application process. |
February |
Finalise Logistics: Book flights, arrange accommodation, and complete pre-departure requirements |
July |
Welcome Week & Start Studies: Arrive in New Zealand, participate in orientation activities, and commence studies in Semester 2. |
Related Article: Best Universities
MBBS Fees in New Zealand
Here’s an overview of the estimated costs associated with pursuing an MBBS degree in New Zealand for the 2024 academic year.
University |
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees (International Students) |
University of Otago |
INR 35,00,000 - INR 37,50,000 (NZD 70,000 - NZD 75,000) |
University of Auckland |
INR 35,00,000 - INR 37,50,000 (NZD 70,000 - NZD 75,000) |
Additional Costs
Application Fees:
- University of Otago: INR 15,000 (NZD 300)
- University of Auckland: INR 15,000 (NZD 300)
Living Expenses:
- Accommodation: INR 6,00,000 - INR 9,00,000 per year (NZD 12,000 - NZD 18,000)
- Food and Miscellaneous: INR 4,00,000 - INR 6,00,000 per year (NZD 8,000 - NZD 12,000)
- Total Estimated Living Expenses: INR 10,00,000 - INR 15,00,000 per year (NZD 20,000 - NZD 30,000)
Health Insurance:
- International Student Health Insurance: INR 25,000 - INR 35,000 per year (NZD 500 - NZD 700)
Books and Supplies:
- Estimated Costs: INR 50,000 - INR 1,00,000 per year (NZD 1,000 - NZD 2,000)
Total Estimated Annual Costs
- Combining tuition fees and additional costs, students should expect to budget approximately INR 60,00,000 to INR 75,00,000 per year (NZD 90,000 - NZD 110,000), depending on their living arrangements and lifestyle choices.
Related Article: Cost of Studying in New Zealand
MBBS Scholarships in New Zealand
New Zealand offers several scholarships for international students pursuing an MBBS degree, providing valuable financial support to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. Here are some prominent scholarships available for Indian students:
New Zealand International Scholarships (NZIS)
- Offered by: New Zealand Government
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a citizen of an eligible country (including India).
- Must have completed secondary education with good academic standing.
- Must meet the university’s entry requirements for the MBBS program.
- Application Procedure:
- Applications are typically open from February to April each year.
- Apply through the New Zealand Government's official scholarship website.
- Submit required documents including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a personal statement.
University of Otago International Excellence Scholarship
- Offered by: University of Otago
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student.
- Must have an offer to study MBBS at the University of Otago.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement.
- Application Procedure:
- Apply for the MBBS program first, then apply for the scholarship.
- Submit the scholarship application through the university’s online portal.
- Provide academic transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and a personal statement.
University of Auckland International Student Scholarships
- Offered by: University of Auckland
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student.
- Must be enrolled in the MBBS program.
- Academic excellence and demonstrated leadership qualities are preferred.
- Application Procedure:
- Apply for the MBBS program at the University of Auckland.
- Submit the scholarship application through the university’s scholarship portal.
- Include academic records, proof of English language proficiency, and a statement of purpose.
Aotearoa New Zealand International Excellence Scholarship
- Offered by: Aotearoa New Zealand (various institutions)
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student.
- Demonstrate exceptional academic performance and potential.
- Enrolled in a full-time MBBS program.
- Application Procedure:
- Application deadlines vary by institution; check specific deadlines on their websites.
- Apply through the respective institution’s scholarship application portal.
- Provide necessary documentation including academic transcripts and a personal statement.
MBBS Course Duration in New Zealand
Here is the detailed structure for MBBS in New Zealand for international students :
Program Structure:
Classroom Learning:
- Years 1-2: Focus on fundamental medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and medical ethics. The coursework includes lectures, seminars, and laboratory sessions to build a strong foundation in medical knowledge.
Practical Training:
- Years 3-4: Emphasise clinical skills and practical training. Students engage in small-group tutorials and practical exercises to develop their clinical competencies. They begin to interact with patients under supervision, practising essential skills such as history-taking, physical examination, and diagnostic procedures.
Clinical Rotations:
- Years 5-6: Students undertake clinical rotations across various specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, psychiatry, and obstetrics. These rotations provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in diagnosing and treating patients. They work in hospitals and clinics, gaining exposure to different medical disciplines and patient care scenarios.
Additional Requirements:
- Exams and Assessments: Throughout the program, students must pass various exams, including written, practical, and clinical assessments.
- Internship: After completing the MBBS program, graduates are required to undertake a year of supervised practice, known as an internship, to obtain full medical registration.
Career After MBBS in New Zealand
After completing an MBBS in New Zealand, fresh graduates can pursue a career in surgery. Initially, due to limited experience, doctors typically participate in group surgeries rather than performing solo operations. However, the demand for medical professionals is high due to a shortage of doctors in the country.
Here’s a breakdown of the various job roles available along with an estimation of the average salaries:
Job Roles |
Job Description |
Average Annual Salary |
Medical Practitioner and Surgeon |
Dealing with group surgeries and medicine |
NR 72,50,000 (NZD 145,000) |
General physician |
Dealing with multiple diseases, without involving surgery |
INR 68,25,000 (NZD 136,500) |
Psychiatrist |
Dealing with mental health and psychological disorders |
INR 1,00,25,000 (NZD 200,500) |
Ophthalmologist |
Deals with eye disease and surgery |
INR 63,25,000 (NZD 126,500) |
Takeaway
For aspiring MBBS students in New Zealand, the journey offers a wealth of opportunities and challenges. The MBBS programs typically span 6 years, combining rigorous classroom learning, hands-on practical training, and extensive clinical rotations.
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths, including specialisation in fields such as surgery, general medicine, and psychiatry. The demand for medical professionals in New Zealand is high, with competitive salaries depending on the role and sector.
If you're an aspiring MBBS student looking to study in New Zealand, our expert consultants at AECC can help you navigate the application process, understand program details, and secure the best opportunities for your future. Let us help you turn your medical career aspirations into reality.