Intakes in the New Zealand for International Students

With its stunning landscapes and world-class education, New Zealand has become a top choice for international students. However, navigating the complex world of intakes, deadlines, and application fees can be daunting.

No need to worry. This article will break down everything you need about intakes in New Zealand, helping you plan your study journey effectively.

Wondering how many intakes are there in New Zealand? Choosing the right intake for your study program in New Zealand is a crucial decision. Let's break down the different intake options available to help you make an informed choice.

The timeline for New Zealand intakes is as follows:

• Fall Intake: Commencing in February or March
• Spring Intake: Starting in July or August
• Summer Intake in New Zealand: Beginning in November

Fall intake would be most preferable, as more courses are conducted during this period. However, there would be higher competition during admissions and accommodation.

If a student wants to opt for some short-term course or a bridge program, then summer intake in New Zealand is the best time. However, the choice of courses and accommodations is extremely limited during this time.

New Zealand offers two major intakes for international students: January and July. Here’s a look at the January intake in more detail.

Benefits of January Intake

1. Early Start: Start your journey without any delay and, in likelihood, graduate early.
2. Less Competition: With less competition, there is always a general trend for January intake in New Zealand.
3. Warmer Season: Get to experience the warmer months of New Zealand while studying.

Application Timeline

The application period for January intake usually starts in August or September.

Top Universities with January Intake

There are several universities in New Zealand with January intakes. Some of them are listed below:

• University of Auckland
• University of Canterbury
• Victoria University of Wellington
• Massey University
• University of Otago

July intake means that the second semester is starting in universities in New Zealand. It offers one a great chance to experience, first-hand, the cooler months of this nation before their summer.

Benefits of July Intake

• Popular Choice: A wider variety of courses and universities are offered during the July intake.
• Internship Opportunities: Some programs may include internships during the summer break.

Application Timeline

Normally, the application process for a July intake takes place by December of the previous year or January of the current year.

Top Universities with July Intake

Intakes in New Zealand for MS universities in New Zealand include:

• Massey University
• University of Auckland
• Victoria University of Wellington
• University of Canterbury

While most universities in New Zealand have traditional intakes, there are a few that have continuous, rolling admissions. So, with the latter, there is no pressure in correspondence of timelines in application and enrollment.

What are Rolling Intakes?

Normally, rolling intakes in New Zealand allow the placement of students in the program as long as there are spots open. There are no fixed deadlines as long as intakes funnel into the student's desired program, unlike those in traditional intakes in New Zealand, where the student has the freedom to choose only till the application start date.

Rolling Intakes Advantages

• Flexibility: You're not forced to start at a particular date; instead, you can decide on a start date based on your readiness and availability.
• Application Process: The rolling intake application process is somewhat aligned with the standard one but with some differences regarding deadlines.
• Early Application: Even though there's no such strict deadline for applications, early applicants have an extra edge in securing a seat.
• Continuous Evaluation: Your application will be processed immediately upon completion.

By and large, for entry into a New Zealand university, students need to meet some specific criteria. The specific ones may generally vary about university demand and student program of choice, but some common ones include:

Academic Requirements

• Higher Secondary Completion: Successful completion of 12 years of schooling or equivalent is the first step of eligibility for most universities abroad.
• Subject: Some courses may have specific entry requirements in terms of scores in particular subjects.

English Language Requirements

• English Proficiency Tests: Most universities require academic skills in English. Accordingly, IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic tests are mandatory in most universities.
• Minimum Score: The score requirements vary based on the universities and the chosen programs.

Other Requirements

• Proof of funds: You will need to prove that you have enough money to pay your tuition fees, support yourself financially during your stay, and return air fare.
• Financial support: Some universities may require an affidavit of financial support from sponsors.
• Health Insurance: Most universities make it mandatory to have health insurance in New Zealand.
• Visa: You need to have a valid New Zealand student visa to study in New Zealand.

Planning to study in New Zealand? For everything to proceed smoothly with your application, you must gather some important documents before applying. Here are the necessary paperwork:

Academic Documents

• Academic Transcripts: Your official transcripts from former colleges and universities will indicate the courses taken, the marks obtained in each course, and the duration of study.
• Degree Certificates: Your degree or diploma certificates are received upon graduation.
• Proof of English Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic scores, if required by the university.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements or financial documents showing your financial ability to pay tuition and living expenses.

Personal Documents

• Valid Passport: A valid passport with a date of expiry at least 6 months after your course completion.
• Passport-size Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs required for visa and university application.
• Letter of Motivation or Statement of Purpose: An essay explaining your academic goals and why you have specifically chosen New Zealand.
• Letters of Recommendation: Letters by professors or employers recommending your admission.

Other Documents

• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance that fully covers your stay in the country.
• Offer Letter: Acceptance letter by any New Zealand university.
• Visa Application Form: A duly filled New Zealand student visa application form.

Mentioned below are some important pointers to keep in mind when applying to New Zealand universities:

Course Availability and Specialisation

• Research programs: Different courses are available at New Zealand universities. Conduct some research on the course of your choice.
• Specialisation field: Determine the field of specialisation and check if the universities provide majors in your area of interest.

University Rankings and Reputation

• Research Rankings: Look at university rankings to have an idea of the academic reputation of the institution.
• Course Accreditation: Ensure that your course is accredited by the proper bodies.

Cost of Living and Tuition Fees

• Budgeting: Forecast your tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, and other expenses.
• Scholarships and Financial Aid: Look for scholarships and other forms of financial aid which may contribute to the lessening of financial load.
• Part-Time Work Opportunities: Search for possible part-time work opportunities to assist in auxiliary income.

Visa Requirements and Procedures

• Eligibility for Visa: Know what visa requirements apply to an international student.
• Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents for your visa, such as your passport, academic papers, and financial proof.

Accommodation Arrangements

• On-Campus Accommodation: Amount and cost of living within the school dormitories
• Off-Campus Accommodation: Housing rentals, like shared apartments or homestay