🇳🇿 How to apply to university in New Zealand

There is no central application system: you apply to each institution directly. Programmes usually start: Late February (Semester One) and mid-July (Semester Two).

Checked on 20 October 2026 against the official sources listed below.

The essentials

Application system: None — apply to each institution on its own website.
When programmes start: Late February (Semester One) and mid-July (Semester Two).
International applicants: International students apply to each university directly and need its offer of place to apply for the student visa.
Language: IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted English test if English isn't your first language; each university sets the scores.

Key dates

Each university sets its own application closing dates for international students; check the university's international admissions page.

The dates for the next intake haven't been published yet. We add them once the official source does.

Your checklist

The usual steps for an international student applying to a bachelor's in New Zealand, in order. Tick them off as you go — your ticks stay in this browser, with no account.

1.Choose a university and check which overseas qualifications it accepts.
2.Apply to the university directly, with your passport, transcripts and English test results.
3.Receive an offer of place — it may be conditional until you meet the remaining requirements.
4.Pay your tuition fees as the offer requires.
5.Apply for a Fee Paying Student Visa with your offer of place, at least 3 months before you plan to travel.
6.Arrange accommodation and travel.

0 of 6 done · ticks are saved in this browser only

Next steps

Sources

Written by CollegeMatcher in our own words from these official pages, checked on 20 October 2026. Dates change every year.

Immigration New Zealand — Visas for studying in New Zealand