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Frequently Asked Questions

How to Get Admission to Universities in New Zealand

How can I get admission to New Zealand universities?

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).

What documents are required to study in New Zealand?

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).

What are the English test scores required to study in New Zealand?

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.

What language proficiency tests are accepted in New Zealand?

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)

What are the IELTS/TOEFL requirements for a New Zealand student visa?

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.

English Test Requirements for Top New Zealand Universities

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