Main intakes
| Intake | Who it suits |
|---|---|
| February / March | The main intake. Most degrees start here, and the choice of courses and scholarships is greatest. The New Zealand academic year runs from February to November. |
| July | A second major intake for many bachelor’s, master’s and diploma courses. |
| Other start dates | Polytechnics, institutes and private providers often have several starts in the year, including trimesters or a September or November start. |
Timeline for a February start
- 8–10 months before: choose courses, book the English test, request transcripts.
- 6–8 months before: apply and apply for scholarships.
- 4–5 months before: accept the offer, arrange fees and insurance, book medical checks.
- 3 months before: lodge the visa. INZ recommends applying at least three months before the start.
- 1–2 months before: housing, flights and orientation.
New Zealand’s seasons are the opposite of Nepal’s, so a February start is the middle of summer there.
Check before you rely on it. Every provider sets its own deadlines and visa processing times change during busy months. Rules, fees and dates are changed by governments often. We last reviewed this page in October 2026. Confirm the current position on Study in New Zealand or ask our counsellors, who check it again before your file is submitted.
Talk to WIEC about New Zealand
Our Lalitpur counsellors can review your marks, English score and finances and tell you honestly which courses and universities fit. Book a free appointment, start your file online at Apply Online, or practise for the English test with IELTSWIZZ.
Last updated 29 Oct 2026