Upcoming Intakes in New Zealand 2026

With its stunning landscapes and world-class education, New Zealand has become a top choice for international students. However, navigating the complex world of international student intakes in New Zealand and application deadlines can be daunting because of the country’s opposite weather conditions.

While many countries offer three popular intakes to international students, viz. September - Fall intake, February - Winter intake, and May - Summer intake. New Zealand follows a different timeline. There is no such thing as the Summer Intake in New Zealand or a Winter intake, or even a Fall intake in New Zealand.

All universities and colleges offer courses in two major intakes in New Zealand to international students: February, commonly known as Semester 1, and July, commonly known as Semester 2. Some institutions offer a third, minor intake in November. The country further allows admissions to vocational courses that have separate application periods in March, April, and May.

Let us explore what each of these intakes in New Zealand has to offer, including their strengths and weaknesses. This will help you make an informed decision and plan your study journey effectively so that you can enjoy the benefits of studying in New Zealand to the fullest.

Types of Intakes in New Zealand

The basics of different types of intakes in New Zealand available to international students can be understood as follows:

Find out everything you need to know about entrance exams and cultural lifestyle of the country: 

• Exams required to study in New Zealand
• Student life and culture in New Zealand

Semester 1: February Intake in New Zealand

February Intake, also called Semester 1, is the primary intake that marks the beginning of the academic year and offers the widest variety of programmes in various fields.

Benefits of February Intake

• Early Start: Start your journey without any delay and, in likelihood, graduate early.
• Programme Availability: With a variety of courses available for international students, the February intake attracts a diverse international student body.
• Warmer Season: Get to experience the warmer months of New Zealand while studying.

Drawback of February Intake

High Competition: As the most popular and largest intake, there is higher competition for both course admission and securing university accommodation compared to the July intake.

Application Timeline in February Intake

The application period for the February intake starts in August or September.

Top Universities in February Intake

Several universities offer February intakes in New Zealand. Some of them are listed below:

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

Semester 2: July Intake in New Zealand

The July Intake, also known as Semester 2, is the second main intake and is a great option for students who need more time for their application process or who have missed the February deadline. Starting in mid-winter, it offers a great chance to experience the cooler months of the nation.

Benefits of July Intake

• Mid-Year Enrolment: Ideal for students finishing their previous studies late, as it provides a convenient starting point without having to wait a full year.
• Good Course Selection: While not as broad as the February intake, a good variety of programmes are available at major universities.
• Internship Opportunities: Programmes may include internships during the long summer break (Nov-Feb), aligning well with a July start.

Drawback of July Intake

Fewer Core Courses: The course selection, while good, is not as comprehensive as the primary February intake, and some specialised programmes may not be available.

Application Timeline in July Intake

The application process for July intakes in New Zealand falls around April or May of the same year.

Top Universities in July Intake

Major universities in New Zealand offering courses in this intake include:

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

Rolling Intakes in New Zealand

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?

Rolling intakes in New Zealand allow institutions to place students in a programme continuously as long as there are open spots. Unlike traditional intakes, where you must meet a fixed deadline, rolling admissions have no fixed cut-off date. Instead, applications are accepted and reviewed until the programme capacity is reached.

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.

Basic Eligibility for Intakes in New Zealand

By and large, for entry into any university, students need to meet some specific criteria that is common for all intakes in New Zealand. The specific criteria may vary by different universities and programmes, but the 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 Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic tests are mandatory in most universities.
• Minimum Score: The score requirements vary based on the universities and the chosen programmes.

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 visa to study in New Zealand.

Documents Required to Apply to New Zealand Institutions

For everything to proceed smoothly with your application for different intakes in New Zealand, you must gather some important documents before applying. Here is a complete list of 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 Academic, TOEFL iBT, 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 (Academic LOR) or by employers (Professional LOR) 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 university irrespective of the intakes in New Zealand.
• Visa Application Form: A duly filled student visa application form.

Key Factors for Different Intakes in New Zealand

Here are some important pointers for international students to keep in mind when choosing to apply to different intakes in New Zealand:

Course Availability and Specialisation

• Research Available Programmes: Of the different courses available, conduct deep research on the course of your choice. See also, courses leading to PR in New Zealand.
• Specialisation Field: Determine the field of specialisation and check for the universities that 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 authorised bodies.

Cost of Living and Tuition Fees

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

Study Permit and Post-Study Visa

• Eligibility for Visa: Know what visa requirements apply to an international student.
• Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents for your visa application, such as your passport, academic papers, and financial proof.
• Prospects: Familiarise yourself with the post-study work opportunities in the country on a PSW Visa in New Zealand.

Accommodation Arrangements

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

To conclude, Semester 1 (February) remains the primary and most popular intake, offering the widest selection of courses, but requires early application due to high competition. Semester 2 (July) is a strong secondary option that provides flexibility for mid-year entry and those who require additional preparation time. Lastly, the November intake in New Zealand is best reserved for short-term and vocational studies.

A thorough understanding of the unique academic calendar offering three intakes in New Zealand, coupled with a clear grasp of eligibility and application procedures, is the key to a successful transition. While the journey may appear complex, our AECC experts are here to simplify the entire process, ensuring you apply to the right intake at the right time. Register with us and book your free call today.