International - How to apply
Admission and Entry requirements
All Ara mainstream programmes have academic entry requirements and English language requirements. If English isn’t your first language, you will need to provide evidence of your English ability. This must be an accepted English language test, or evidence of previous study in English (please note, we do not accept Medium of English as evidence). Specific entry and English requirements are listed in the information section for each programme of study.
How to apply
Studying overseas is a big commitment. When you decide to apply to study at Ara, you can have confidence that we will guide you through the whole process.
We will assist you to:
- Submit your application
- Prepare your visa
- Get to New Zealand
Two ways to apply
There are two ways to apply: online or by using a PDF application form. We recommend applying online because online applications are processed much faster.
You can apply online here. If you are not able to apply online, you can download our PDF application form. Once you’ve filled it in, email it to: intladmissions@ara.ac.nz.
Click here to view the 'how to apply' diagram.
Application checklist
You MUST supply documentation (in English) with your application. So before starting your application, be ready to supply the following:
- A certified English translation and certified original of entrance qualifications and academic records
- A copy of a recent IELTS or PTE results sheet or other proof of English proficiency
- Details of any relevant work experience e.g. curriculum vitae, resume, references
- Personal statement
Frequently asked questions
You should receive an Offer of Place within 10 business days. Delays can happen due to:
- Your application being incomplete (missing supporting documents)
- The department selection process
- Limited availability in the programme you have applied for
- Public holidays in New Zealand
A limited ‘please respond’ date is located near the bottom left corner of your Offer of Place. This is how long your Offer of Place is valid for. If you need longer, email intladmissions@ara.ac.nz as soon as possible.
If we do not hear back from you before this date, your application will be closed and you will need to re-apply.
To apply for a full visa, you must have an Unconditional Receipted Offer of Place. This is issued once you have met all entry requirements and paid for your programme of study.
We recommend that you apply for an AIP. This will give you more security that your visa will be granted and reduces the risk that you will be charged extra fees by Immigration New Zealand and Ara.
We recommend that you use a registered agent. These agents have previous experience applying for study in New Zealand and they understand Immigration New Zealand’s processing requirements. For agent recommendations within your country (or region), please contact international@ara.ac.nz.
If you require a homestay, this will be arranged once we have received a completed homestay application form and received payment in full.
Please note: if we do not receive this information within seven working days of your arrival, we may not be able to arrange a homestay immediately.
Fee payment details are provided on your statement of fees. Please remember to include your student ID number when making payment. If you have paid by bank transfer, please provide your remittance advice slip for fast identification.
Student insurance is a requirement of your New Zealand student visa. Most insurance arranged outside of New Zealand does not meet the minimum requirements. We recommend that you get your insurance from our preferred provider, Allianz, to avoid disappointment and paying additional costs.
When you come to Ara to complete your enrolment, please bring with you:
- Your passport and visa
- Your original academic transcripts and IELTS results (these include certified translated copies)
- Your address and cell phone details
At your first visit, you will sign the Ara ‘Acknowledgement and Declaration’.
Contact details
Email: international@ara.ac.nz
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