Study Abroad Intakes In New Zealand - Why The Timing Of Your Application Matters

When one thinks of New Zealand, the first things that come to mind are picturesque landscapes, rolling hills (Hobbiton, anyone?) and rugby.

While you’ll definitely get to see all those and more in the beautiful country, the best part is that you can concurrently pursue your degree at a New Zealand university!

With many top-rated education institutions and a wide range of courses available, there’s no doubt you’ll find an area of study right up your alley. Apart from that, it has a multicultural environment, with many students from all over the world flying over to pursue their studies every year.

Are you planning to study in New Zealand?

If so, you should take a closer look at the study abroad intakes in New Zealand and get familiar with what each intake offers so that you can identify which is a better option for yourself.

Read on to get the details and understand more about each study intake.

Intake Dates For Studying In New Zealand

In New Zealand, there are two general intakes: the January intake and the July intake.

As their names suggest, the January intake happens at the beginning of the year and the application deadline usually falls between August and September.

The July intake takes place slightly after halfway through the year and if you’re looking to apply, you will have to do so by a cut-off date between February and March.

Specific dates would largely depend on your course or university, so you should definitely take note of them!

Between the two intakes, you might not be sure which one is better for you. Hence, it helps to factor in several things such as the availability of your preferred program, acceptance rates, your academic records and entrance test scores, among others.

There isn’t a better or worse intake between the two as both have pros and cons to each of them. This includes factors such as the variety of courses available, internships, scholarships and financial aid.

Before you make a commitment, it is important for you to understand both intakes better so that you can make an informed decision.

Key Differences Between The Two New Zealand Intakes You Must Know

1. January Intake (Semester 1)

The January Intake in New Zealand lets you kick things off first thing in the new year, so if you prefer to follow the calendar, this can be a good option for you!

However, it is less popular than the July Intake so it might be quieter on campus. Having said that, this means you’ll have much less competition for your application to your preferred course and much higher chances of getting accepted.

2. July Intake (Semester 2)

Among the two intakes, the July Intake – also known as the Spring semester – is more popular and well-received. This is largely because there are a lot more options when it comes to available programmes and universities.

Although July is in the middle of the year, it is actually Spring in New Zealand, which lets you kickstart your next chapter of studies at the beginning of the school year. Hence, you will not miss out on any on-campus activities and also get to experience a bustling, vibrant campus.

If getting involved in extracurricular activities or student clubs is something important to you, it could be a good idea to join this intake as you’ll have an additional semester to do so and potentially be on the club committee or have a heavier involvement.

Embark On Your New Zealand Study Journey With IDP

Are you ready to take the plunge and pursue the degree of your dreams in beautiful New Zealand?

We can help you to successfully make it there!

At IDP, we have a team of education counsellors that have the experience and expertise to assist you throughout your application process – from course selection to accommodation preparation.

Besides navigating the process with you, expect to get all your questions about studying abroad answered as well as tailored guidance and advice from our education counsellors so that you successfully make it to New Zealand.

Book your free counselling session today to get started!