New Zealand Study Intakes

New Zealand university intakes for international students

Before you begin your application to study in New Zealand, you must become familiar with the common intakes of domestic and international students. In New Zealand, the intake process occurs twice (majorly) in January and July. There are rolling intakes as well that offer admission throughout the year. However, the actual admission dates might vary as per the university.

New Zealand intakes

Intake session Semester session Description
January (semester I or Autumn intake) February to June The New Zealand universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses during this intake. 
July (semester II or Spring intake) July to November It is a popular and preferred intake session, offering various courses. 
Rolling intakes Anytime during the year Vocational courses are primarily available during this intake. 

January/February intake

The New Zealand university intake for January/February starts at the beginning of the year, and if you wish to apply, it is advisable to apply in November.

Application deadlines for January/February intake

For students applying for January/February 2024 intakes, apply by July the previous year. The processing takes a long time. Therefore, registering 8 to 10 months before the session starts is essential. 

Universities that accept January intake

New Zealand is home to many prestigious universities that are globally recognized. Here is the list of the universities that accept January intakes. 

University Popular courses Location
Lincoln University M.Sc in accounting and finance Lincoln 
University of Canterbury Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Christchurch 
Massey University Master of Supply Chain Management Palmerston North
University of Waikato Master of Business and Management Hamilton
The University of Otago Bachelor of Science in Marine Biologyt Dunedin
Auckland University of Technology Bachelor in Arts- Event Management Auckland
University of Auckland Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting Auckland

July intake

The July intake, also known as the Spring intake, starts in the middle of the year. The deadline for the application form is in May. This session opens up many opportunities for international students. 

July intakes are the most popular New Zealand intake for international students, as they have a high chance of being admitted to the best universities. On average, international students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s in NZ should prepare and wait for a year.

Application deadlines for July intake

Applying to New Zealand universities takes a lot of work. It’s a lengthy process and can test your patience. It takes approximately 7 to 10 months to complete the application process. If you plan to pursue education in NZ, it is better to start applying for the July intake in August of the previous year. Here’s a breakdown of the application process timeline, which can help schedule your career journey to New Zealand.

Universities that accept July intake

The New Zealand intake month, July, is the most popular intake for international students. Here’s a list of the complete universities that conduct admissions interviews in July. 

University Name Popular course offered Location
Massey University International Business- Bachelor of Business Palmerston
University of Canterbury Bachelor of Data Science Christchurch 
Eastern Institute of Technology Master of Health Science Napier
Lincoln University B.Sc Hons in Psychology Lincoln 
Auckland University of Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science Auckland
University of Otago Bachelors in Finance Dunedin
Unitec Institute of Technology Bachelor of Business Marketing Auckland
University of Auckland M.S. Clinical Pharmacy Auckland

Other intakes in New Zealand

Besides the January/February and July intakes, other academic sessions are available in New Zealand. The January and July intakes offer various course levels. Also, three other intakes are open: March, April, and May, which mainly provide short-term and vocational programs in New Zealand.

Study in New Zealand

Speak to an SI-NZ consultant to learn more about the New Zealand University intakes and processes.

Contact SI-New Zealand about your application

New Zealand Study Intakes FAQ

Which intake is best for New Zealand?

New Zealand offers two significant annual intakes: January and July. The most popular among international applicants is July, which offers more courses and specialization.

Can international students apply for all intakes?

Yes, international students can apply in both intakes - January (Autumn) and July (Spring). 

Can students change their intake after applying?

A student can opt for a new university after applying and getting F1 stamped. 

Which English language proficiency test is accepted in New Zealand?

New Zealand accepts IELTS for all visa categories. In addition, it also takes PTE and TOEFL scores as well.

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