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Ara Institute of Canterbury Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Ara Institute of Canterbury Admissions
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  • There is no official Ara Institute of Canterbury application deadline for international students.
  • The Ara Institute of Canterbury follows the general deadline followed by New Zealand Universities.

At Ara Institute of Canterbury, programs will start in Feb 2026. International students can apply for Ara Institute of Canterbury admissions online through “the official website” or via the “printed application form”. Ara is a New Zealand government-owned tertiary institution that has more than 100 years of teaching experience and around 1,800 international students join the institute every year.

Ara Institute of Canterbury Fees Free

  • If you’re 16-24 years old, get ahead the smart way with a free Youth Guarantee course.
  • If you’re a first-year student and you meet the Fees Free eligibility, then your first year of study at Ara is Fees-free.
  • Over 100 years of teaching experience
  • Ara Institute of Canterbury was formed in 2016 from the merger of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) and Aoraki Polytechnic.

Check the New Zealand Student Visa Guide before applying

Ara Institute of Canterbury Admission 2025 Highlights

There is an official Ara Institute of Canterbury acceptance rate for international students. The institute advises students to meet the general entry requirements and apply for admission before the deadline. The Ara Institute of Canterbury admissions 2024 highlights are mentioned below:

Particular

Requirements

Application portal

ebsportal.ara.ac.nz or printed application form

English language tests accepted

TOEFL / IELTS / PTE

Ara Institute of Canterbury Dates

Download

Check the list of Universities and Colleges in New Zealand

Ara Institute of Canterbury Courses & Fees 2025

There are around 25 Ara Institute of Canterbury courses available for international students at undergraduate and graduate levels. The below table includes the Ara Institute of Canterbury fees for international students with course duration:

Courses

1st Year Tuition Fees

Duration & Eligibility

BE/BTech (2 courses)

INR 10 L - 11 L

Duration: 3 years
Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 70 & Above, PTE: 54 & Above

PG Diploma (14 courses)

INR 10 L - 12 L

Duration: 1 year
Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 - 6.5, PTE: 50 - 63, TOEFL: 60 - 85

BBA (1 course)

INR 9 L

Duration: 3 years
Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 70 & Above, PTE: 54 & Above

BDes (1 course)

INR 10 L

Duration: 3 years
Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 70 & Above, PTE: 54 & Above

UG Diploma (6 courses)

INR 9 L - 11 L

Duration: 1 year-2 years
Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 - 6, TOEFL: 46 - 70, PTE: 42 - 54

BSc (1 course)

INR 12 L

Duration: 3 years
Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above

Read about the Introduction to the Education System in New Zealand

Ara Institute of Canterbury Admission Deadlines 2025

There are no official Ara Institute of Canterbury deadlines for international students. However, the institute follows the general deadline followed by New Zealand Universities, i.e., for the July Intake (Second Semester) application deadline in June. The below table includes the important deadlines for Ara students:

Particular

Important Deadlines

Spring Graduation

Sep 13, 2025

Daylight saving starts

Sep 29, 2025

Campuses close

Dec 20, 2025

Also read: Study in New Zealand: Timeline for February

What are the entry requirements for the Ara Institute of Canterbury?

International students who wish to study at Ara Institute of Canterbury meet the entry requirements as per the course. We have mentioned below the general entry requirements for undergraduate and graduate admission below:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements at Ara

  • Complete high school in a relevant discipline with the required score
  • Meet the English language requirements
  • Submit a portfolio of work (if asked)

Graduate Admission Requirements at Ara

  • Complete a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline with required score
  • Meet the English language requirements
  • Submit a portfolio of work (if asked)

Read more about the New Zealand Master's Degree Requirements for International Students

What are the English language requirements for the Ara Institute of Canterbury?

Those students whose first language is not English must meet the below English language requirements:

English Proficiency Requirements

International applicants need to meet the following English requirements as per the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA):

English Exams Accepted

Certificate or Diploma at Level 6

Diploma or degree at Level 7

Graduate Certificate or Diploma at Level 7

PG Diploma or PG Certificate at Level 8

Bachelor's Honours Degree at Level 8

Master’s Degree at Level 9

Doctoral Degree at Level 10

IELTS

At least a score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5

At least a score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6

TOEFL iBT

At least a score of 60 (with a writing score of 18)

At least a score of 79 (with a writing score of 21)

PTE

A score of 50 with no band score lower than 42

A score of 58 with no band score lower than 50

Students can also check How to Study in New Zealand without the IELTS Test

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Ara Institute of Canterbury Admission Overview 2026

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Ara Institute of Canterbury Courses: Eligibility and Fees 2025

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Ara Institute of Canterbury Admission Process 2026

Ara Institute of Canterbury B.E. / B.Tech Admissions 2026

2 courses 3 years
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icon
10.7L - 11.4L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • 10+2 with 75% aggregate
  • Accepting Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE

Ara Institute of Canterbury Application Process 2026

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Ara Institute of Canterbury
Students Ratings & Reviews

5/5
Verified Icon1 Verified ReviewInfo Icon
Vibe of Campus
  • Easy going
  • Academically oriented
Student Views
  • 50% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships5
Part time work5
Post study jobs5
Quality of faculty5
Student Life5
Value for money5
Public transportation5
Safety5
Indian Food5
Permanent Immigration5
J
Jebas Chitra John Samuel Verified Icon
Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying - Batch of 2023
5
Friendly people, highly engaging and interactive classes.
Tips: The main problem I faced was the accent spoken by the people here. But I was able to overcome it within a month. That's because the people here don't discriminate, even if they can't understand. They repeat slowly for you to understand. So, if you initiate communication, the language barrier is resolved automatically. The classrooms, library and computer labs are accessible any time, so they help us have group study sessions at college, especially to finish our projects. There are a lot of events like cultural events, food expos, and gaming that happen often, which help students connect. There are a bunch of clubs, such as Ara FM, Zumba, the volleyball team, the basketball team, the badminton team, and lots of other sports clubs. We were allowed a separate class for international students and concerned faculty members were able to handle the cultural difficulties of the students. Especially during the first half of the study, faculty members were so helpful in getting us used to the new procedures followed. All the lectures were very helpful and easy to access anytime to clarify any questions outside of class time. Overall, I am highly satisfied with my course, college and the country.
Reviewed on 26 Feb 2025Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying - Batch of 2025
4.4
Institute is best for learning as they have best teachers and they are always helpful.
Tips: Well, I think that one should be ready for a change and to keep up with the studies as well as part-time jobs. Currently, it is a little difficult to find part-time jobs. As for me, I landed two weeks before college was commencing and from the very next day, I started finding a part-time job. I suggest you don’t delay everything after coming here, as it will become more stressful to find a job after you start studying.
Reviewed on 3 Feb 2025Read more
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Ara Institute of Canterbury Admission 2024 FAQs

Q:   What are the English language requirements for Ara Institute of Canterbury?
A: 

Those students whose first language is not English must meet the below English language requirements:

English Proficiency Requirements

International applicants need to meet the following English requirements as per the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA):

English Exams Accepted

Certificate or Diploma at Level 6

Diploma or degree at Level 7

Graduate Certificate or Diploma at Level 7

PG Diploma or PG Certificate at Level 8

Bachelor Honours Degree at Level 8

Master’s Degree at Level 9

Doctoral Degree at Level 10

IELTS

At least score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5

At least score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6

TOEFL iBT

At least score of 60 (with a writing score of 18)

At least score of 79 (with a writing score of 21)

PTE

Score of 50 with no band score lower than 42

Score of 58 with no band score lower than 50

Students can also check How to Study in New Zealand without IELTS Test

Q:   How can I apply for the Ara Institute of Canterbury?
A: 

International students who wish to study at the Ara Institute of Canterbury, must follow the below step to complete the application process:

Step 1 – Fill the Ara Institute of Canterbury admission application online or printed application form. Check that you have completed all parts of the form and included all required documentation.

Step 2 – Now receive unconditional offer.

Step 3 – Provide your arrival information. Receive confirmation of accommodation. Complete pending tasks and start attending class

Also read: New Zealand Student Visa - Requirements, Application Process, Fees

Q:   Is Ara Institute of Canterbury hard to get into?
A: 

There is no official Ara Institute of Canterbury acceptance rate for international students. However, students must require meeting the Ara admission requirements to get admission to the university.

Check the 7 Top Reasons to Study in New Zealand

Q:   How long does it take to get an offer letter from the Ara Institute of Canterbury?
A: 

After submitting the Ara Institute of Canterbury admission application, the university will review all the details and if everything is fine then you should receive an Offer of Place within 10 business days. Delays can happen due to following reasons:

·      Your application being incomplete (missing supporting documents)

·      The department selection process

·      Number of seats are less

·      Public holidays in New Zealand

Q:   What are the entry requirements for Ara Institute of Canterbury?
A: 

International students who wish to study at Ara Institute of Canterbury meet the entry requirements as per the course. We have mentioned below the general entry requirements for undergraduate and graduate admission below:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements at Ara

  • Complete high school in a relevant discipline with required score
  • Meet the English language requirements
  • Submit a portfolio of work (if asked)

Graduate Admission Requirements at Ara

  • Complete a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline with required score
  • Meet the English language requirements
  • Submit a portfolio of work (if asked)

Read more about the New Zealand Master Degree Requirements for International Students

Q:   How much does the Ara Institute of Canterbury cost for international students?
A: 

The Ara Institute of Canterbury cost of studying for international students is ranges from INR 9 L to INR 12 L. The Ara tuition fees vary by programs. The below table includes the first year Ara Institute of Canterbury fees:

Courses

1st Year Tuition Fees

BE/BTech (2 courses)

INR 10 L - 11 L

PG Diploma (14 courses)

INR 10 L - 12 L

BBA (1 course)

INR 9 L

BDes (1 course)

INR 10 L

UG Diploma (6 courses)

INR 9 L - 11 L

BSc (1 course)

INR 12 L

Check the Cost of Studying in New Zealand for International Students 2023

Q:   What is Bachelor of Design course at Ara Institute of Canterbury?
A: 

The Ara Institute of Canterbury Bachelor of Design is undergraduate degree in Applied Visual Art. The Ara Institute of Canterbury BDes fees for international students is INR 10.9 L for first year and the duration of the programme is three years. The course helps to develop core technical skills and gain an understanding of the current influences that underpin 2D and 3D design. Ara Bachelor of Design is available in below specializations:

  • Visual communication
  • Motion design
  • Applied visual art
  • Photography
  • Fashion  

Check the other Options to Study in New Zealand after 12

Q:   What is the requirement for Ara Institute of Canterbury Bachelor of Design?
A: 

International students must complete their high school education and get a qualified score in a relevant discipline. The general Ara Institute of Canterbury requirements for admission in Bachelor of Design is mentioned below:

·      Complete high school in a relevant discipline with a qualified score

·      Meet the English language requirements

·      Submit academic transcripts and Written statement

·      Applicants need to submit a portfolio of their work

Q:   What is Ara Institute of Canterbury Bachelor of Design fees?
A: 

The Ara Institute of Canterbury Bachelor of Design fees is INR 10.9 L for first year of education. The complete first year package require to study BDes at Ara Institute of Canterbury is mentioned below:

Fees components

Amount

Tuition & fees

INR 10,90,813

Hostel & Meals

INR 4,28,534

Insurance

INR 26,860

Transportation

INR 52,285

Student Services Fee

INR 12,815

Total

INR 16,11,307

Q:   Which institute in New Zealand should I prefer for a Graduate Diploma in hospitality - Manukau Institute of Technology or Ara Institute?
A: 

Both Manukau Institute of Technology and Ara Institute Of Canterbury are among the popular universities to study Diploma in Hospitality in New Zealand. We have compared them in the below table in terms of their tuition fees for Graduate Diploma in hospitality and ranking:

Universities

Tuition Fees

Manukau Institute of Technology

INR 10.7 L

Ara Institute of Canterbury

INR 10.7 L

As per the above table, both universities offer the hospitality programme at same rate. Hence, its on you in which institute you would like to apply.

Also check the Study in New Zealand: Application process to Postgraduate courses

Q:   Is there any scholarship or financial aid available for international students at Ara University of Canterbury?
A: 

The Ara University of Canterbury provides several scholarships to students that can save them a good amount on their tuition fees. Ara University of Canterbury scholarships are based on sporting achievements, community leadership, and academic excellence of the students. We have mentioned below some of the popular scholarships at the

Ara Advantage Scholarship: It consists of various scholarships funded by Ara, such as:

·      Equity Scholarship: A scholarship of NZD 4,000 is offered to undergraduate and graduate students facing financial challenges or inequitable circumstances to study at the university.

·      Excellence Scholarship: A scholarship of NZD 4,000 is offered to undergraduate and graduate students based on their high academic achievements at the university. It is given for up to 12 months.

·      Leadership Scholarship: A scholarship of NZD 4,000 is offered to support undergraduate and graduate students who exhibit leadership potential at the university.

Hardship Scholarships: Hardship scholarships are offered to students who require financial assistance. The scholarship amount varies according to the financial conditions of students. It includes the following financial aid options:

·      Emergency Assistance Grant

·      Ara Hardship Grant

·      Ara Completion Grant

·      Study and Living Scholarship

Focus Scholarships: Community donors and industries offer Focus Scholarships. It is generally offered in a specific study area, level of study, or purpose. The scholarships are:

·      Beca Engineering Scholarship

·      Freemasons Christchurch Nursing Scholarship

·      Gordon Fairweather Engineering Scholarship

·      Graduate Women Placement Support

Read more about the Scholarships to Study in New Zealand

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Ara Institute of Canterbury

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Ara Institute of Canterbury
Location

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University CityChristchurch, Other - New Zealand, New Zealand
Size of cityMedium
Population of City3,81,500

Ara Institute of Canterbury
Contact Information

Address

City Campus, Madras Street
PO Box 540, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand

Christchurch ( Other - New Zealand)

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