It is my pleasure as CEO to introduce you to an exciting range of education solutions that Ara has created to challenge minds and promote passionate learning. Our dedication and commitment to being the best in all that we do has kept Ara at the forefront of applied, vocational learning globally.
Nurturing great thinkers requires individual attention. We pride ourselves on having classes that ensure a personal learning experience and we are in the business of shaping lives, creating leaders and cultivating social pioneers; we look forward to sharing our wealth of knowledge and experience with you.
- New Zealand Government-owned
- The largest institute of technology in the South Island
- Established 1906
- More than 100 years of applied vocational learning
- Member of International Association of Universities
- Longstanding international teaching and research partnerships
- Number of students: 19,000/year
- International students: 1,800 (from over 50 countries)
- NZQA Category 1 institution
- Approved provider for Pathway visas under the Immigration NZ pilot programme
- Class size: range from 16 – 100, average 20
- Minimum age: 17 years old; no maximum age
- Hours per week: 15-20 hours lecture time, additional 20-40 hours of self-study time
- Seamless Pathways
- More than 150 qualification programmes
Admission and Entry requirements
All Ara mainstream programmes have academic entry requirements and English language requirements. Students from non-English speaking backgrounds must provide evidence of their English ability. This must be an accepted English language test or evidence of your previous study in English (please note: we do not accept Medium of English as acceptable evidence). Specific entry and English requirements are listed in the information section for each programme of study.
How to apply
Read our application process diagram to find out what you need to do to apply to study with us. We’ll guide you through submitting your application, preparing your visa and getting to New Zealand. See the application process diagram (PDF0.1MB).
You can apply to study through our how to apply.
Alternatively, you can fill out our PDF application form and email it to [email protected].
Students in organised groups should fill out the PDF application form available here. All group applications should be emailed to [email protected]
Contact details
Phone: 03 940 8389
International: +64 3 940 8000
Email: [email protected]