Intakes

Intakes for New Zealand Higher Study

New Zealand universities and institutes typically offer multiple start dates across the year. Knowing the main intakes and timelines helps you plan applications, scholarships, visas, and travel smoothly.

Main Intakes (Universities)

• February/March (Semester 1) — The primary intake with the widest range of courses.
• July (Semester 2) — Mid‑year intake; many programs available.
• November/December (Summer School or Trimester 3) — Limited courses; shorter, intensive teaching blocks.
• Trimester calendars (at some universities, e.g., Wellington, Waikato):
  • Trimester 1: March–June
  • Trimester 2: July–October
  • Trimester 3: November–February

Institutes of Technology/Polytechnics & Private Providers

• Many offer multiple intakes across the year (often February, April, July, October, and sometimes monthly for certain diplomas/certificates).
• Check specific program pages for rolling or frequent start dates.

Foundation, Pathway, and EAP/NZCEL Intakes

• Foundation/International Year One: Common intakes in February, April, July, October.
• EAP (English for Academic Purposes) and NZCEL: Frequent start dates (often every 5–10 weeks). Choose an intake that finishes before your degree orientation.

PhD and Research Degrees

• Many universities accept PhD applications year‑round, with flexible start dates.
• University or faculty scholarship rounds may have fixed deadlines (often several times a year).

When to Apply (Suggested Timeline)

• For February/March intake
  • Research courses: May–July (previous year)
  • Submit applications: August–October
  • Offers and documents: October–December
  • Visa and travel: November–January
• For July intake
  • Research courses: October–December (previous year)
  • Submit applications: January–March
  • Offers and documents: March–May
  • Visa and travel: April–June
• For November/Trimester 3
  • Research courses: April–June
  • Submit applications: July–September
  • Visa and travel: September–October

Tip: Aim to apply 6–9 months before your intended start date, especially if you need time for English tests, portfolios, or scholarships.

Deadlines and Cut‑offs to Watch

• Program closing dates: Some popular or limited‑entry programs close early or fill fast.
• Scholarships: Often due 3–8 months before the intake; earlier than course deadlines.
• Accommodation: Halls/residences can fill quickly—apply as soon as you receive/expect an offer.
• Portfolio/Auditions (Creative/Architecture): Usually have earlier submission windows.

Orientation and Enrolment

• Most universities run Orientation Week just before classes start (late February, July, and November for trimester/summer).
• Arrive in time to complete enrolment, student ID, IRD number, and set up insurance and banking.

Visa Planning

• You’ll need a valid Offer of Place and supporting documents for your Student Visa.
• Processing times vary; apply as soon as you receive your offer and have documents ready.
• Always check the latest guidance on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Which Intake Should You Choose?

• February/March: Best for widest course availability and campus life.
• July: Good mid‑year start; may suit southern hemisphere academic rhythm.
• November/Trimester 3: Useful for catching up, taking electives, or starting select programs; limited options.

Study in New Zealand BD – Intake Planning & Timeline Support

• Intake matching based on your course, deadlines, and scholarship windows
• Personalized timeline (tests, documents, applications, visa, travel)
• Conditional offer to unconditional planning (meeting English/academic conditions)
• Scholarship and accommodation deadline tracking
• Visa-ready documentation checklist and submission guidance

Want a tailored intake plan? Share your target program, preferred start date, and current test scores—we’ll map out your exact steps and deadlines.