University of Canterbury

Founded in 1873, the University of Canterbury (UC) is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious universities, located in the vibrant city of Christchurch. Renowned for its strong academic reputation, UC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as engineering, business, science, arts, education, and law. The university is recognized for its research excellence, innovative teaching, and commitment to sustainability.

UC provides a dynamic and inclusive learning environment, welcoming both domestic and international students. With modern facilities, strong industry links, and a picturesque campus, the University of Canterbury equips students with the skills, knowledge, and global outlook needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.


Scholarship


???? General Undergraduate Scholarships

  • UC Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship
    A merit-based scholarship valued at NZ$5,000, awarded to top-achieving students commencing their first year of an undergraduate degree at UC. No separate application is required; an approved Application to Enrol serves as the scholarship application.

  • Incoming First-Year Scholarships
    These scholarships are available annually to prospective first-year undergraduate students intending to enrol full-time in a three-year or four-year undergraduate bachelor's degree. Eligibility criteria vary and may include factors such as subject area, level, and/or qualification you plan to study at UC; your age, gender, ethnicity, and citizenship; and which high school and/or region you are coming from.

  • UC International First-Year Scholarship
    This scholarship recognizes and supports top-achieving international students commencing their first year of an undergraduate degree at UC. The scholarship is valued between NZ$10,000 and NZ$20,000. Applicants must be full-fee-paying international students and meet specific academic and admission criteria.


???? Scholarships for Specific Groups

  • UC Takere Scholarship
    Designed to support Māori and Pacific students in their transition to university study, this scholarship offers financial assistance and tailored support throughout the recipient's first year.

  • UC Alumni Scholarship
    Available to first-year undergraduate students who are children or grandchildren of UC alumni, this scholarship provides financial support to encourage continued family engagement with the university.

  • Rotary Club of Christchurch Blackgrove Scholarship
    This scholarship supports students facing challenges that might otherwise prevent them from considering entry to tertiary education. Preference is given to applicants who have been educated within the Christchurch city area.


???? Application Process

To apply for UC undergraduate scholarships, prospective students should:

  1. Complete an Application to Enrol: This serves as the initial step for both admission and scholarship consideration.

  2. Review Eligibility Criteria: Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements, including academic qualifications, citizenship status, and other factors.

  3. Submit Required Documentation: Depending on the scholarship, this may include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, or evidence of extracurricular involvement.

  4. Meet Application Deadlines: Ensure all applications and supporting documents are submitted by the specified deadlines.

    ???? Scholarships for Domestic Graduate Students

    1. UC Master's Research Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$15,000 per year for up to two years

      • Eligibility: Available to domestic students enrolled in the first year of a research-based Master's program. Applicants should have a high academic standing (typically a first-class or second-class first division degree).

      • Requirements: A research proposal and supervisor support may be required.

    2. UC Doctoral Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$25,000 per year for up to three years, plus tuition fees

      • Eligibility: Domestic students intending to enroll in a doctoral program. Applicants should have a strong academic background, usually requiring a first-class or second-class first division master's degree or equivalent.

      • Requirements: A research proposal and confirmation of a suitable supervisor at UC.

    3. UC Graduate Women New Zealand Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$2,000–NZ$6,000

      • Eligibility: Women undertaking postgraduate study, with preference given to those in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).

      • Requirements: Strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential.

    4. UC Pacific Postgraduate Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$10,000

      • Eligibility: Open to domestic students of Pacific descent enrolling in a postgraduate program. Applicants must have a record of strong academic achievement and show potential for leadership.

      • Requirements: A personal statement and recommendation from a community leader or mentor.


    ???? Scholarships for International Graduate Students

    1. UC International Master's Research Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$15,000 per year for up to two years

      • Eligibility: International students enrolled in a Master's research program. Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and a strong background in their chosen field of study.

      • Requirements: A research proposal, supervisor support, and relevant academic transcripts.

    2. UC International Doctoral Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$25,000 per year for up to three years, plus tuition fees

      • Eligibility: International students intending to enroll in a doctoral program. Applicants should have completed a Master's degree with high academic merit (equivalent to first-class honors or above).

      • Requirements: A comprehensive research proposal and supervisor agreement.

    3. UC Global Doctoral Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$20,000 per year for up to three years, plus tuition fees

      • Eligibility: Open to high-achieving international students undertaking doctoral study at UC.

      • Requirements: A solid research proposal and evidence of past research experience and academic excellence.

    4. UC International Research Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$10,000–NZ$20,000

      • Eligibility: International students enrolling in research-based master's or doctoral programs. The scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievements and supports students in various fields of research.

      • Requirements: A research proposal and a supervisor’s endorsement.


    ???? Application Process for Graduate Scholarships

    1. Complete the Application for Admission:
      All applicants must submit an application for admission to the graduate program and meet the specific requirements of their chosen degree.

    2. Review Scholarship Criteria:
      Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, research potential, and the required supporting documents (such as transcripts, recommendations, and research proposals).

    3. Submit Supporting Documents:
      Documents may include academic transcripts, a research proposal (for research-based programs), and letters of recommendation. 

    4. Meet Application Deadlines:
      Scholarship deadlines can vary, so applicants must ensure they meet the specified dates for each scholarship. Late applications may not be considered.

Courses


No results found

Eligibility criteria


???? General Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Admission

1.      Academic Qualifications

o    Domestic Students:

§  Must have completed a New Zealand University Entrance qualification (e.g., NCEA Level 3 with approved subjects), or

§  An equivalent international secondary school qualification (e.g., A-levels, IB Diploma, Australian ATAR, etc.), or

§  Completion of an accredited foundation or pathway program.

o    International Students:

§  Must have completed an equivalent secondary school qualification to New Zealand’s University Entrance (e.g., A-levels, IB, or equivalent).

2.      English Language Proficiency
All students whose first language is not English must meet one of the following criteria:

o    IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.0, with no band score less than 5.5, or

o    TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80, with at least 20 in writing, or

o    PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50, with no section score below 42, or

o    Successful completion of an approved English language program (e.g., UC Foundation Program).

3.      Age Requirement

o    Students must be at least 16 years old by the first day of their university program. If a student is under 18, a guardian or parent may be required to sign relevant documents.

4.      Program-Specific Requirements
Some degrees may have additional entry criteria or prerequisites, such as:

o    Subject requirements (e.g., Mathematics or Science for Engineering programs), or

o    A portfolio or interview for certain programs (e.g., Design, Fine Arts).

5.      Visa and Health Insurance (for International Students)

o    International students must hold a valid student visa and have approved health and travel insurance for the duration of their studies.

???? General Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Admission

  1. Academic Qualifications

    • Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, generally with a strong academic record (often a B grade average or higher).

    • For entry into a postgraduate diploma or certificate, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification is typically required.

    • For entry into a master’s degree, applicants typically need:

      • A bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (usually first-class or second-class first division), or

      • A Postgraduate Diploma or equivalent in a relevant discipline with satisfactory academic performance.

  2. Research-Based Programs (Master's and Doctoral Degrees)

    • For research-based programs (e.g., Master's with thesis or Doctoral programs), applicants may need to demonstrate:

      • A strong research background, typically through a research project or thesis at the undergraduate level,

      • A research proposal that aligns with the university’s research strengths,

      • Supervisor availability in the intended field of study (for doctoral programs, having an appropriate academic supervisor is a must).

  3. English Language Proficiency
    International applicants whose first language is not English must meet the following language requirements:

    • IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0, or

    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing, or

    • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58, with no score lower than 50, or

    • Completion of a recognized English language program.

  4. Program-Specific Requirements
    Some programs might have additional entry requirements, such as:

    • Portfolios (for programs like Fine Arts, Design),

    • Work experience (for programs like Education, Business),

    • Interviews (for certain professional programs).

  5. Visa and Health Insurance (for International Students)

    • International students must hold a valid student visa and provide proof of health and travel insurance for the duration of their study.

  6. Age Requirement

    • There is generally no age restriction for postgraduate applicants, though some programs may have specific conditions.

Accommodation


Homestay and private board are popular choices with international, study abroad and exchange students when they first arrive in Christchurch. Guaranteed places in halls of residence for international students

If you are a single international student who is over 18 and coming to study at UC and apply by the 1 December you are guaranteed a place in a single fully-furnished room in one of the self-catered apartments at Ilam Apartments. This applies to both 41 week and 48 week contracts.

Accommodation for Postgraduate students

For postgraduate students arriving outside standard semester dates (February-June or July-November), UC offers a Postgraduate Flexible contract for a minimum stay of 16 weeks from your nominated start date. A deposit is required to confirm your room with weekly payments thereafter.

Visa


University Video


???? General Undergraduate Scholarships

  • UC Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship
    A merit-based scholarship valued at NZ$5,000, awarded to top-achieving students commencing their first year of an undergraduate degree at UC. No separate application is required; an approved Application to Enrol serves as the scholarship application.

  • Incoming First-Year Scholarships
    These scholarships are available annually to prospective first-year undergraduate students intending to enrol full-time in a three-year or four-year undergraduate bachelor's degree. Eligibility criteria vary and may include factors such as subject area, level, and/or qualification you plan to study at UC; your age, gender, ethnicity, and citizenship; and which high school and/or region you are coming from.

  • UC International First-Year Scholarship
    This scholarship recognizes and supports top-achieving international students commencing their first year of an undergraduate degree at UC. The scholarship is valued between NZ$10,000 and NZ$20,000. Applicants must be full-fee-paying international students and meet specific academic and admission criteria.


???? Scholarships for Specific Groups

  • UC Takere Scholarship
    Designed to support Māori and Pacific students in their transition to university study, this scholarship offers financial assistance and tailored support throughout the recipient's first year.

  • UC Alumni Scholarship
    Available to first-year undergraduate students who are children or grandchildren of UC alumni, this scholarship provides financial support to encourage continued family engagement with the university.

  • Rotary Club of Christchurch Blackgrove Scholarship
    This scholarship supports students facing challenges that might otherwise prevent them from considering entry to tertiary education. Preference is given to applicants who have been educated within the Christchurch city area.


???? Application Process

To apply for UC undergraduate scholarships, prospective students should:

  1. Complete an Application to Enrol: This serves as the initial step for both admission and scholarship consideration.

  2. Review Eligibility Criteria: Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements, including academic qualifications, citizenship status, and other factors.

  3. Submit Required Documentation: Depending on the scholarship, this may include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, or evidence of extracurricular involvement.

  4. Meet Application Deadlines: Ensure all applications and supporting documents are submitted by the specified deadlines.

    ???? Scholarships for Domestic Graduate Students

    1. UC Master's Research Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$15,000 per year for up to two years

      • Eligibility: Available to domestic students enrolled in the first year of a research-based Master's program. Applicants should have a high academic standing (typically a first-class or second-class first division degree).

      • Requirements: A research proposal and supervisor support may be required.

    2. UC Doctoral Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$25,000 per year for up to three years, plus tuition fees

      • Eligibility: Domestic students intending to enroll in a doctoral program. Applicants should have a strong academic background, usually requiring a first-class or second-class first division master's degree or equivalent.

      • Requirements: A research proposal and confirmation of a suitable supervisor at UC.

    3. UC Graduate Women New Zealand Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$2,000–NZ$6,000

      • Eligibility: Women undertaking postgraduate study, with preference given to those in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).

      • Requirements: Strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential.

    4. UC Pacific Postgraduate Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$10,000

      • Eligibility: Open to domestic students of Pacific descent enrolling in a postgraduate program. Applicants must have a record of strong academic achievement and show potential for leadership.

      • Requirements: A personal statement and recommendation from a community leader or mentor.


    ???? Scholarships for International Graduate Students

    1. UC International Master's Research Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$15,000 per year for up to two years

      • Eligibility: International students enrolled in a Master's research program. Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and a strong background in their chosen field of study.

      • Requirements: A research proposal, supervisor support, and relevant academic transcripts.

    2. UC International Doctoral Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$25,000 per year for up to three years, plus tuition fees

      • Eligibility: International students intending to enroll in a doctoral program. Applicants should have completed a Master's degree with high academic merit (equivalent to first-class honors or above).

      • Requirements: A comprehensive research proposal and supervisor agreement.

    3. UC Global Doctoral Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$20,000 per year for up to three years, plus tuition fees

      • Eligibility: Open to high-achieving international students undertaking doctoral study at UC.

      • Requirements: A solid research proposal and evidence of past research experience and academic excellence.

    4. UC International Research Scholarship

      • Value: NZ$10,000–NZ$20,000

      • Eligibility: International students enrolling in research-based master's or doctoral programs. The scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievements and supports students in various fields of research.

      • Requirements: A research proposal and a supervisor’s endorsement.


    ???? Application Process for Graduate Scholarships

    1. Complete the Application for Admission:
      All applicants must submit an application for admission to the graduate program and meet the specific requirements of their chosen degree.

    2. Review Scholarship Criteria:
      Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, research potential, and the required supporting documents (such as transcripts, recommendations, and research proposals).

    3. Submit Supporting Documents:
      Documents may include academic transcripts, a research proposal (for research-based programs), and letters of recommendation. 

    4. Meet Application Deadlines:
      Scholarship deadlines can vary, so applicants must ensure they meet the specified dates for each scholarship. Late applications may not be considered.

No results found

???? General Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Admission

1.      Academic Qualifications

o    Domestic Students:

§  Must have completed a New Zealand University Entrance qualification (e.g., NCEA Level 3 with approved subjects), or

§  An equivalent international secondary school qualification (e.g., A-levels, IB Diploma, Australian ATAR, etc.), or

§  Completion of an accredited foundation or pathway program.

o    International Students:

§  Must have completed an equivalent secondary school qualification to New Zealand’s University Entrance (e.g., A-levels, IB, or equivalent).

2.      English Language Proficiency
All students whose first language is not English must meet one of the following criteria:

o    IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.0, with no band score less than 5.5, or

o    TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80, with at least 20 in writing, or

o    PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50, with no section score below 42, or

o    Successful completion of an approved English language program (e.g., UC Foundation Program).

3.      Age Requirement

o    Students must be at least 16 years old by the first day of their university program. If a student is under 18, a guardian or parent may be required to sign relevant documents.

4.      Program-Specific Requirements
Some degrees may have additional entry criteria or prerequisites, such as:

o    Subject requirements (e.g., Mathematics or Science for Engineering programs), or

o    A portfolio or interview for certain programs (e.g., Design, Fine Arts).

5.      Visa and Health Insurance (for International Students)

o    International students must hold a valid student visa and have approved health and travel insurance for the duration of their studies.

???? General Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Admission

  1. Academic Qualifications

    • Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, generally with a strong academic record (often a B grade average or higher).

    • For entry into a postgraduate diploma or certificate, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification is typically required.

    • For entry into a master’s degree, applicants typically need:

      • A bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (usually first-class or second-class first division), or

      • A Postgraduate Diploma or equivalent in a relevant discipline with satisfactory academic performance.

  2. Research-Based Programs (Master's and Doctoral Degrees)

    • For research-based programs (e.g., Master's with thesis or Doctoral programs), applicants may need to demonstrate:

      • A strong research background, typically through a research project or thesis at the undergraduate level,

      • A research proposal that aligns with the university’s research strengths,

      • Supervisor availability in the intended field of study (for doctoral programs, having an appropriate academic supervisor is a must).

  3. English Language Proficiency
    International applicants whose first language is not English must meet the following language requirements:

    • IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0, or

    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing, or

    • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58, with no score lower than 50, or

    • Completion of a recognized English language program.

  4. Program-Specific Requirements
    Some programs might have additional entry requirements, such as:

    • Portfolios (for programs like Fine Arts, Design),

    • Work experience (for programs like Education, Business),

    • Interviews (for certain professional programs).

  5. Visa and Health Insurance (for International Students)

    • International students must hold a valid student visa and provide proof of health and travel insurance for the duration of their study.

  6. Age Requirement

    • There is generally no age restriction for postgraduate applicants, though some programs may have specific conditions.

Homestay and private board are popular choices with international, study abroad and exchange students when they first arrive in Christchurch. Guaranteed places in halls of residence for international students

If you are a single international student who is over 18 and coming to study at UC and apply by the 1 December you are guaranteed a place in a single fully-furnished room in one of the self-catered apartments at Ilam Apartments. This applies to both 41 week and 48 week contracts.

Accommodation for Postgraduate students

For postgraduate students arriving outside standard semester dates (February-June or July-November), UC offers a Postgraduate Flexible contract for a minimum stay of 16 weeks from your nominated start date. A deposit is required to confirm your room with weekly payments thereafter.

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