Intakes in New Zealand 2024: July & September Deadline and Universities

In recent years, New Zealand has become a popular destination for international students, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and world-class education system. 

If you’re considering studying in New Zealand, it’s crucial to understand the intakes available in the country. While the actual admission dates may vary depending on the university and program, aspiring applicants must be well-informed about two significant intakes in New Zealand. 

Planning and choosing the intake that suits you best can ensure a smooth transition into your academic journey in New Zealand. 

Below is a quick overview of Intakes in New Zealand

In New Zealand, there are primarily two intakes for courses (February and July), and the universities provide rolling intakes (Winter and Spring). 

Semesters	Intakes	Application Deadline
Semester 1	February to June	January/February
Semester 2	July to November	June/July
Rolling Intakes	Any time of the year	N/A

The intakes provide various educational opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, allowing students to pursue their studies in a supportive and innovative environment. 

This blog post provides information on the intakes in New Zealand; you can read more details about them here.

Did you know? Over the past five years, a total of 41,784 student visas have been granted by New Zealand to Indian international students.

Which intake to opt for?

If you’re planning to study in New Zealand, choosing the right intake for a smooth transition into your academic journey is essential. 

While most Indian students prefer the July intake, it’s essential to consider various factors like program availability, academic records, entrance test scores, acceptance rates, job opportunities, and readiness to join the program. 

If you’re not fully prepared, waiting for the next intake is better than rushing into it. It’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable counsellor who can guide you through selecting a course, submitting an application, and obtaining a visa. They can also inform you about the available intakes and answer any questions.

Note: Not all undergraduate programs will accept applications for July intake. Therefore, it’s wise to conduct thorough research.

Need help with selecting an intake? Download our app to get guidance from our expert counsellors.

Intakes in New Zealand: Semester 1 (February to June) 

Starting your studies in New Zealand during the February intake is a good option. 

It is a popular time to begin university studies, and the application deadlines are flexible. The February intake marks the start of the academic year’s first semester, typically from February to June. This is a great time to study because there are many undergraduate and postgraduate programs you can choose from

Benefits of February Intakes:

1. There is a higher potential for part-time job openings in February at the beginning of the semester, which can help you manage your living expenses while studying.
2. The February intake in New Zealand typically has fewer students than the July intake, which can result in smaller class sizes and more personalised attention from professors.

Note: Not all universities or programs participate in the February intake. Always double-check the deadlines and program availability on the university website before applying.

Here’s a rough timeline for the February intake in New Zealand:

Timeline for February Intake
March/April:	Research & Choose Program: Start browsing universities and programs offered in the February intake.
May – July:	Gather Documents: Collect transcripts, test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and any other required documents. Prepare Applications: Start working on your application forms, statement of purpose, and securing recommendation letters.
August – September:	Submit Applications: Double-check deadlines (which can vary) and submit your applications to your chosen universities. Wait for Offers: Universities will review applications and send out acceptance offers.
October – November:	Accept Offer & Secure Funding: If you receive an offer, choose your university and confirm your spot. Secure any necessary financial aid or scholarships. Apply for a Visa: Start the student visa application process.
December – January:	Finalise Logistics: Book flights, arrange accommodation, and complete any pre-departure requirements.
February:	Welcome Week & Start Studies! Arrive in New Zealand, participate in orientation activities, and begin your studies in the February semester.

Remember: This is a general guideline. Deadlines and specific requirements can vary between universities and programs. Always refer to the official university website for the most up-to-date information.

Mentioned below are the top universities in New Zealand with programs available in February Intake.

Universities	Courses Available	Average fees per year (approx.)
University of Auckland	NursingCommunicationCommerce	INR 18L to 44L
University of Otago	AccountingEconomicsManagement	INR 17L to 43L
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)	PsychologyEconomicsEngineering	INR 14.5L to 19L
University of Canterbury	Business AdministrationFinance and EconomicsMathematics	INR 16L to 38L
Massey University	MarketingMedia and CommunicationEconomics	INR 15L to 18L

Intakes in New Zealand: Semester 2 (July to November) 

Due to its benefits, the July intake in New Zealand is the most popular among international students. It allows students to experience the cooler months, settle in, and explore the culture and lifestyle of New Zealand. The timeline for the July intake begins with choosing a program between March and April. 

Benefits of July Intakes:

1. Better Adjustment: Arriving in July offers a chance to experience the cooler months in New Zealand, making it easier to adjust and settle in before the summer semester starts.
2. More Time for Preparation: The July intake gives students additional time to prepare for their studies, including gathering documents, submitting applications, and securing funding.
3. Align your Academic Calenders: Starting your studies in July aligns your academic calendar with New Zealand’s, which makes transitioning into further studies or job opportunities smoother after completing your program.
4. A more comprehensive range of subjects: The February intake offers a broader range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, allowing you to explore and choose the best fit for your academic interests.

Here’s a rough timeline for the July intake in New Zealand:

Timeline for February Intake
March/April:	Research & Choose Program: You can begin searching for universities and the programs they offer for the upcoming July intake.
May – June:	Gather Documents: Collect transcripts, test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and any other required documents.
July – August:	Submit Applications: Double-check deadlines (which can vary) and submit your applications to your chosen universities.
August – September:	Wait for Offers: Universities will review applications and send out acceptance offers.
October – November:	October – November: Accept Offer & Secure Funding: If you receive an offer, choose your university and confirm your spot. Secure any necessary financial aid or scholarships.
December – January:	Apply for a Visa: Start the student visa application process.
February:	Finalise Logistics: Book flights, arrange accommodation, and complete any pre-departure requirements.
July:	Welcome Week & Start Studies! Arrive in New Zealand, participate in orientation activities, and begin your studies in Semester 2.

Mentioned below are the top universities in New Zealand with programs available in July Intake.

Universities	Courses Available	Average fees per year (approx.)
University of Auckland	EngineeringLawMedicine	INR 18L to 41L
University of Otago	Law ManagementFinance	INR 15L to 42L
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)	ArchitectureBusinessEducation	INR 11 L to 20L
University of Canterbury	PhysicsFinancialManagement	INR 14L to 26L
Massey University	MarketingMedia CommunicationEducation	INR 14L to 18L

Intakes in New Zealand: Rolling Intakes

Rolling intakes are a new trend in New Zealand universities that allow students to apply for admission throughout the year. 

• Unlike traditional fixed deadlines, rolling intakes accept and process applications until all available spots are filled. 

Note: Not all universities or programs offer rolling intakes. It’s advisable to check the specific program and university websites for confirmation.

• One advantage of applying for rolling intakes is that your chances of securing a spot increase if you apply earlier, especially for competitive programs. 
• Additionally, decisions on your application may be quicker compared to fixed intake deadlines. 
• Rolling intakes offer more flexibility for students who need to adjust their study plans or haven’t finalised all required documents by a fixed deadline.

Note: However, it’s crucial to stay on top of deadlines since applications for popular programs might fill up faster with a rolling intake. Even with rolling intakes, there might be internal deadlines for specific program entry points. Therefore, it’s advisable to confirm these deadlines with the university. 

Preparing your application materials well in advance, including transcripts, test scores, and references, can help you apply as soon as possible. If you have any questions about rolling intakes for your chosen program, you can contact the university’s admissions office. 

In summary, rolling intakes offer great flexibility for students, but it’s important to stay organised and prepared to avoid missing out on admission opportunities.

Remember: Rolling intakes can be a great option for adaptable students, but research and early preparation are still key for success.

Requirements for Intakes in New Zealand

If you are planning to study in New Zealand, you need to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for admission. The eligibility criteria for intakes in New Zealand include academic qualifications, English proficiency, and financial support.

Here are the further requirements for intakes in New Zealand.

1. You need to have completed your secondary education (Class 12th) and hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or diploma certificate. To prove your eligibility, you must provide all your academic documents, including certificates and transcripts.
2. You must demonstrate your English proficiency by providing valid English language test scores. The accepted tests are IELTS (6.5-7), TOEFL (79-100) and PTE (58-65). 
3. You must show proof of sufficient funds to support your education and living expenses in New Zealand. This includes tuition fees, accommodation, food, travel, and other expenses. You can provide bank statements, scholarship letters, or other financial documents to demonstrate your financial support.
4. In addition to these, you need to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP), a Letter of Recommendation (LOR), and an updated CV/Resume. Additionally, depending on your course of study, you may need to provide subject-specific test scorecards, like the GRE and GMAT (550-650).
5. Finally, you must have a Letter of Acceptance from a recognised university in New Zealand and an academic essay. You can apply for admission online or through a registered education agent.

In conclusion, meeting the eligibility criteria is essential to secure admission to a New Zealand university or institute. Ensure that you fulfil all the requirements before applying to avoid any delays or rejections.

Documents required for Intakes in New Zealand

Here’s a summary of the documents required for studying in New Zealand:

1. Application Form
2. Academic Transcripts and Certificates (X, XII examination certificates, Bachelors’ Degree)
3. Proof of English Language Proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL.
4. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: 
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement
6. Letters of Recommendation (1-3)
7. Research Proposal (for Research Programs)
8. Passport Copy
9. Proof of Financial Capacity
10. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
11. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Previous Institutions (if applicable)
12. Application Fee Payment Receipt
13. Additional Documents (if applicable)

Application Process for Intakes in New Zealand

To apply for an intake, you must gather certain documents, such as academic transcripts and certificates. It’s important to keep track of the application deadlines for each intake and the availability of the programs you’re interested in. 

These are the steps you should follow for the application process.

Step 1: Research and choose a course and university that aligns with your goals and plans. Check the eligibility requirements of the course and the university.

Step 2: Prepare your application documents, including academic transcripts and certificates, a resume, and proof of English language proficiency.

Step 3: Complete the online application form and pay the application fee, which is available on the university website. Once paid, submit your application.

Step 4: If you get shortlisted, you may receive an offer letter from the university.

Step 5: Accept the offer letter and pay the tuition fee deposit to secure your seat in the university.

Step 6: Apply for a student visa.

Step 7: Attend health examinations if required.

Step 8: When you receive your visa approval, plan your travel itinerary.

Summing Up

In this blog, we learned more about Intakes in New Zealand and their advantages. New Zealand offers various study options for international students. Understanding the available intakes and choosing the right one is crucial for a smooth transition into your academic journey. 

Whether you opt for the popular July intake or the flexible rolling intake, it’s important to research the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and program availability. 

LeapScholar can guide you! Our advisors will help you navigate eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and program availability.

Don’t wait! Prepare your application materials well in advance and increase your chances of success. 

Also Read:

Intakes in Australia

Intakes in the USA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)