Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for University of Waikato College

To enrol at the University of Waikato College, you need to have a minimum level of English language proficiency (IELTS score or equivalent). You will also need to meet the academic entry requirements for your home country listed below. Entry requirements vary by programme.

When you have completed your programme at the University of Waikato College, you can progress to a degree at the University of Waikato, provided you meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Undergraduate entry requirements

Foundation Studies

CountryFoundation programme (Standard)Foundation programme (Accelerated)
New Zealand (international student only)40 credits at NCEA Level 2 with 12 credits in each of three University Entrance approved subjects at Level 2NCEA Level 2 certificate with 12 credits in each of three University Entrance approved subjects at Level 2
ArgentinaTítulo de Bachiller - Grade 7.0 in any three academic subjectsTítulo de Bachiller - Grade 8.0 in any three academic subjects
AustraliaCompletion of Senior High School Year 11 - 55% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Senior High School Year 11 - 70% in any three academic subjects
Bangladesh1Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) - 50% in any three academic subjectsHigher Secondary Certificate (HSC) - 70% in any three academic subjects
BrazilCompletion of Ensino Médio (Secondary Education) Year 11 - Grade 5.5 in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Ensino Médio (Secondary Education) Year 11 - Grade 7.5 in any three academic subjects
BhutanBhutan Certificate of Secondary Education (BCSE) - 45% in any three academic subjects
Indian Certificate of Secdondary Education Examination (ICSEE) - Grade 6 in any three academic subjects
Bhutan Certificate of Secondary Education (BCSE) - 60% in any three academic subjects
Indian Certificate of Secdondary Education Examination (ICSEE) - Grade 4 in any three academic subjects
Canada2Completion of Senior High School Year 11 - 55% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Senior High School Year 11 - 70% in any three academic subjects
ChileLicencia de Educación / Enseñanza Media - Grade 4.5 in any three academic subjectsLicencia de Educación / Enseñanza Media - Grade 5.5 in any three academic subjects
ChinaCompletion of Gaozhong (Senior High School) Year 2 - 65% in any three academic subjects
Completion of Gaozhong (Senior High School) Year 3 - 60% in any three academic subjects
Completion of Gaozhong (Senior High School) Year 2 - 80% in any three academic subjects
Completion of Gaozhong (Senior High School) Year 3 - 75% in any three academic subjects
China (vocational)Completion of Zhongzhuan / Zhongzhi (Vocational Senior High) Year 2 - 70% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Zhongzhuan / Zhongzhi (Vocational Senior High) Year 2 - 85% in any three academic subjects
ColombiaBachiller Académico - Desempeño básico or 60% in any three academic subjectsBachiller Académico - Desempeño alto or 80% in any three academic subjects
FijiFiji Year 12 Examination Certificate / Fiji School Leaving Certificate – an aggregate of 165 across any three academic subjectsFiji Year 12 Examination Certificate / Fiji School Leaving Certificate – an aggregate of 210 across any three academic subjects
Hong Kong SARCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 - 55% in any three academic subjects

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) - Level 2 in any three academic subjects
Completion of Senior High School Year 2 - 70% in any three academic subjects

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) - Level 2 in one academic subject and Level 3 in two academic subjects
IGCSEO Level - Grade D in any three academic subjectsO Level - Grade B in any three academic subjects
IndiaCompletion of Year 11 - 70% in any three academic subjects
Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (Year 10) - Grade 6 in any three academic subjects

All India Senior School Certificate (AISSC), Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC), or Indian School Certificate (ISC) from selected state boards (Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal) - 45% in any three academic subjects
AISSC, HSC, or ISC from other state boards - 50% in any three academic subjects
Completion of Year 11 - 85% in any three academic subjects
Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (Year 10) - Grade 4 in any three academic subjects

All India Senior School Certificate (AISSC), Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC), or Indian School Certificate (ISC) from selected state boards (Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal) - 55% in any three academic subjects
AISSC, HSC, or ISC from other state boards - 60% in any three academic subjects
IndonesiaCompletion of Sekolah Menengah Atas / Madrasah Aliyah (SMA / MA) Year 2 - 60% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Sekolah Menengah Atas / Madrasah Aliyah (SMA / MA) Year 2 - 75% in any three academic subjects
International Baccalaureate (IB)Year 1 - 12 points across six subjects with 6 points from higher level subjectsYear 1 - 18 points across six subjects with 9 points from higher level subjects
IranCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 - Grade 12Completion of Senior High School Year 2 - Grade 16
JapanCompletion of Kōtō Gakkō (Senior High School) Year 2 - Grade 3 in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Kōtō Gakkō (Senior High School) Year 2 - Grade 4 in any three academic subjects
KenyaKenya Certificate of Sceondary Education (KCSE) - Grade D in any three academic subjectsKenya Certificate of Sceondary Education (KCSE) - Grade C in any three academic subjects
KuwaitShahadat Al-thanawaya Al-a’ama (General Secondary School Certificate) - 60% in any three academic subjectsShahadat Al-thanawaya Al-a’ama (General Secondary School Certificate) - 70% in any three academic subjects
MacauCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 or Form 5 Certificate - 55%* in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 or Form 5 Certificate - 70%* in any three academic subjects
MalaysiaSijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) - Grade C in any three academic subjects

Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) - 3 points across any three academic subjects
(Calculated on the basis that A = 5, A- = 4, B+ = 4, B = 3, B- = 2, C+ = 2, C = 1)
Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) - 24 points across any three academic subjects
Matrikulasi Certificate - Grade D+ in any three academic subjects
Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) - Grade B in any three academic subjects

Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) - 4 points across any three academic subjects
(Calculated on the basis that A = 5, A- = 4, B+ = 4, B = 3, B- = 2, C+ = 2, C = 1)
Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) - 20 points across any three academic subjects
Matrikulasi Certificate - Grade C in any three academic subjects
MexicoTítulo Académico de Bachiller / Diploma de Bachiller / Bachillerato General - Grade 6.5 in any three academic subjectTítulo Académico de Bachiller / Diploma de Bachiller / Bachillerato General - Grade 8.0 in any three academic subject
MongoliaCertificate of Complete Secondary Education - 65% in any three academic subjectsCertificate of Complete Secondary Education - 80% in any three academic subjects
MyanmarBasic Education High School Examination / Matriculation Examination - 60% in any three academic subjectsBasic Education High School Examination / Matriculation Examination - 75% in any three academic subjects
NepalSecondary Education Examination Year 10 - Grade 2.4 in any three academic subjects

Secondary Leaving Certificate Class 11 and 12 - GPA 2.0 across any three academic subjects
School Leaving Certificate Examination Year 10 - Grade 3.2 in any three academic subjects

Secondary Leaving Certificate Class 11 and 12 - GPA 2.4 across any three academic subjects
NigeriaSenior School Certificate / West African Senior School Certificate - 45% or D7 in any three academic subjectsSenior School Certificate / West African Senior School Certificate - 60% or C4 in any three academic subjects
OmanGeneral Education Diploma - Grade C in any three academic subjectsGeneral Education Diploma - Grade B in any three academic subjects
PakistanHigher Secondary School certificate / Intermediate - 45% in any three academic subjectsHigher Secondary School certificate / Intermediate - 60% in any three academic subjects
PeruCertificado de Educación Secundaria Común Completa - Grade 13 in any three academic subjectsCertificado de Educación Secundaria Común Completa - Grade 16 in any three academic subjects
PhilippinesCompletion of Year 11 - 75% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Year 11 - 85% in any three academic subjects
RussiaAttestat o Srednem Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary General Education) - Grade 3 in any three academic subjectsAttestat o Srednem Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary General Education) - Grade 4 in any three academic subjects
SamoaSamoa Secondary Leaving Certificate (SSLC) - 55% in any three academic subjectsSamoa Secondary Leaving Certificate (SSLC) - 70% in any three academic subjects
Saudi ArabiaTawjihiyah (General Secondary Education Certificate) - 60% in any three academic subjectsTawjihiyah (General Secondary Education Certificate) - 75% in any three academic subjects
SingaporeCambridge O Level - Grade C6 in any three academic subjectsCambridge O Level - Grade B4 in any three academic subjects
South AfricaCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 - 45% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 - 60% in any three academic subjects
South KoreaCompletion of Godeung Hakgyo (Senior High School) Year 2 - Grade D in any three academic subjects or Rank 7 overallCompletion of Godeung Hakgyo (Senior High School) Year 2 - Grade B in any three academic or Rank 4.5 overall
Sri LankaGeneral Certificate of Education O Level - Grade C in any three academic subjectsGeneral Certificate of Education O Level - Grade B in any three academic subjects
Taiwan ROCCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 - 65% in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Senior High School Year 2 - 80% in any three academic subjects
ThailandCompletion of Matthayom 5 (Maw 5) - Grade 1.5 in any three academic subjectsCompletion of Matthayom 5 (Maw 5) - Grade 3.0 in any three academic subjects
TürkiyeLise Diploması (High School Diploma) - 55% in any three academic subjectsLise Diploması (High School Diploma) - 70% in any three academic subjects
UAETawjihiya / General Secondary School Education Certificate - 65% in any three academic subjectsTawjihiya / General Secondary School Education Certificate - 80% in any three academic subjects
UKGeneral Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) - Grade 2 or E in any three academic subjectsGeneral Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) - Grade 5 or C in any three academic subjects
USA3High School Graduation Diploma -  65% in any three academic subjectsHigh School Graduation Diploma -  80% in any three academic subjects
VietnamYear 11 – Grade 6.5 in any three academic subjectsYear 11 – Grade 8.0 in any three academic subjects

1 HSC awarded by Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education or Bangladesh Technical Board (BTEB).

2 Secondary school diploma is awarded after 11 years of education in Quebec hence students from Quebec with secondary school diploma are not eligible for Accelerated or Diplomas.

3 The programme must be studied at a provider that is nationally recognised or accredited by the government or goverment-mandated authority.

Certificate of Attainment in English Language (CAEL) / Certificate of Attainment in Academic English (CAAE)

English language requirements

All test results are valid for two years from the date of the test to the proposed start date at the University of Waikato. The requirements must be met within one test sitting or on one certificate.

 CAFS (accelerated)CAFS (standard)
IELTS (Academic)IELTS score of 5.5 (with at least 5.5 in the Writing and one other band, and no band less than 5.0)IELTS score of 5.5 (no band less than 5.0)
iBT TOEFL (internet based)Overall score of 46 with a writing score of 14Overall score of 46 with a writing score of 14
Pearson (PTE)PTE Academic overall score of 42 and no band score lower than 38PTE Academic overall score of 36 and no band score lower than 29
Waikato Certificate of Attainment in Academic English  (CAAE)B grade or better with a B in Writing at level 6B grade or better at level 6
NZCELLevel 3 AppliedLevel 3 Applied
Trinity ISEISE II with no less than merit in any bandISE II with no less than pass in any band
Language Cert - International ESOLB1 Achiever IESOL (LRWS) with High Pass and no less than Pass in each skillB2 Communicator IESOL (LRWS) with Pass and no less than Pass in each skill
Cambridge EnglishB1 & B2: overall score of 162 and no bands below 154B1 & B2: overall score of 162 and no bands below 154
Michigan English Test7550
Accredited Pathways Assessment (APA)1 English NZ accredited schoolsEnglish New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 1English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 1

All other evidence is considered on a case-by-case basis

Certificate of Attainment in Foundation Studies

To provide flexibility to students during COVID-19 who are affected by the closure of testing centres, the University of Waikato will accept the following alternative tests for all 2023 intakes. Please note this policy is subject to review.

COVID-19 English language requirements

 CAFS (accelerated)CAFS (standard)
IELTS IndicatorIELTS score of 5.5 (with at least 5.5 in the Writing and one other band, and no band less than 5.0)IELTS score of 5.5 (no band less than 5.0)
TOEFL iBT Home (Plus)Overall score of 46 with a writing score of 18Overall score of 46 with a writing score of 14
DuolingoAn overall score of at least 95 (equivalent to an IELTS score of 5.5)An overall score of at least 95 (equivalent to an IELTS score of 5.5)

International Diplomas

CountryAcademic requirements
New Zealand (international students)NCEA Level 3 certificate with 32 credits across three University Entrance approved subjects at NCEA Level 3, and 10 numeracy credits at Level 1
ArgentinaPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
AustraliaCompletion of Senior High School Year 12 - 60% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
ATAR - 60% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
BangladeshPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
BrazilCompletion of Ensino Médio (Secondary Education) Year 12 - Grade 6.5 in any three academic subjects and Grade 5.0 in Mathematics
BhutanBhutan Higher Secondary Education Certificate - 50% in any three academic subjects and 40% in Mathematics
Indian School Certificate (Year 12) - 60% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
Canada1Completion of Senior High School Year 12 - 60% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
ChileCompletion of Year 2 of Grado de Bachiller - Grade 5 in any three academic subjects and Grade 4 in Mathematics
ChinaCompletion of Gaozhong (Senior High School) Year 3 - 70% in any three academic subjects and 65% in Mathematics
Gaokao Tier 2 score (for the required score by province, please click here) and 60% Mathematics
China (vocational)Completion of Zhongzhuan / Zhongzhi (Vocational Senior High) Year 3 - 75% in any three academic subjects and 65% in Mathematics
Completion of Year 3 of a five-year Dazhuan (Vocational Tertiary) - 65% in any three academic subjects and 60% in Mathematics
ColombiaPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
FijiFiji Year 13 Certificate / Fiji Seventh Form Examination Certificate – an aggregate of 165 across any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
Certificate in Foundation Studies - Grade C+ in any three academic subjects and Grade C in Mathematics
Hong Kong SARHong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) - Level 3 in any three academic subjects, and Level 2 in Mathematics
IGCSEAS Level - Grade B in any three academic subjects and Grade D in Mathematics
A Level - Grade C in any three academic subjects and Grade D in Mathematics
IndiaAll India Senior School Certificate (AISSC), Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC), or Indian School Certificate (ISC) from select state boards (Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal) - 55% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
AISSC, HSC, or ISC (other boards) -  60% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics
IndonesiaCompletion of Sekolah Menengah Atas / Madrasah Aliyah (SMA / MA) Year 3 - 70% in any three academic subjects and 60% in Mathematics
International Baccalaureate (IB)Year 2 - 18 points across six subjects with 9 points from higher level subjects including 3 points from Group 5 (Mathematics)
IranPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
JapanCompletion of Kōtō Gakkō (Senior High School) Year 3 - Grade 3 in any three academic subjects and Grade 3 in Mathematics
Upper Secondary School Equivalency Examination - Grade 3 in any three academic subjects and Grade 3 in Mathematics
KenyaKenya Certificate of Sceondary Education (KCSE) - Grade C+ in any three academic subjects and Grade D in Mathematics
KuwaitPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
MacauSenior Secondary Graduation Certificate - 65% in any three academic subjects and 60% in Mathematics
MalaysiaSijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) - 4 points across any three academic subjects and 1 point in Mathematics
(Calculated on the basis that A = 5, A- = 4, B+ = 4, B = 3, B- = 2, C+ = 2, C = 1)
Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) - 20 points across any three academic subjects and 6 points in Mathematics
Matrikulasi - Grade C in any three academic subjects and Grade D+ in Mathematics
MexicoPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
MongoliaUniversity Entrance Examination - pass in any three academic subjects and Mathematics
MyanmarPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
NepalSecondary Leaving Certificate Class 11 and 12 - GPA 2.4 across any three academic subjects and Grade 2.0 in Mathematics
NigeriaPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
OmanPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
PakistanAssociate Degree - Grade C+ in any three academic subjects and Grade C in Mathematics
PeruPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
PhilippinesSenior High School Katunayan / Katibayan (Certificate / Diploma) (Academic track) - 80% in any three academic subjects and 75% in Mathematics
RussiaSvidetel'stvo o Rezul'tatakh YGE (Certificate of Unified State Examination) - successfully complete with a pass in Mathematics
SamoaPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
Saudi ArabiaPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
SingaporeCambridge A Level - Grade D in any three H2 Level subjects and Grade D in Mathematics
NUS High School Diploma - Cumulative average point (CAP) 2.0 in any three academic subjects and CAP 2.0 in Mathematics
South AfricaNational Senior Certificate - 50% in any three academic subjects and 40% in Mathematics
South KoreaCompletion of Godeung Hakgyo (Senior High School) Year 3 / High school certificate - Grade C in any three academic subjects or Rank 5.5 and Grade C in Mathematics
CSAT - Rank 6 in any three academic subjects and Rank 7 in Mathematics
Sri LankaGeneral Certificate of Education (GCE) A level - Grade S in two academic subjects and Grade C in one academic subject and Grade S in Mathematics
Taiwan ROCCompletion of Senior High School Year 3 - 70% in any three academic subjects and 60% in Mathematics
ThailandCompletion of Matthayom 6 (Maw 6) - Grade 2.4 in any three academic subjects and 2.0 in Mathematics
TürkiyeLise Diploması (High School Diploma) - 70% in any three academic subjects and 50% in Mathematics, and completion of either Higher Education Examination or Undergraduate Placement Examination
UAEPlease contact anzadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements
UKGeneral Certificate of Education (GCE) A level - Grade C in any three academic subjects and Grade D in Mathematics
USA2Advanced Placement (AP) Examination - GPA 2.5 across any three academic subjects and Grade 2 in Mathematics
American College Test (ACT) - Score of 18 in any three sections and 12 in Mathematics
SAT-1 - Score of 800 including 200 for Mathematics
VietnamHọc Bạ Trung Học Phổ Thông (High School Report) - Grade 7 in any three academic subjects and Grade 6 in Mathematics

1 Secondary school diploma is awarded after 11 years of education in Quebec hence students from Quebec with secondary school diploma are not eligible for Accelerated or Diplomas.
2 The programme must be studied at a provider that is nationally recognised or accredited by the government or goverment-mandated authority.

All test results are valid for two years from the date of the test to the proposed start date at the University of Waikato. The requirements must be met within one test sitting or on one certificate.

  • an Academic IELTS overall score of 5.5 (with no less than 5.0 in any band) or equivalent.
  • an iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) minimum score of 46 with a Writing score of 14, or
  • a B grade or better with a B in Writing at Level 6 in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic English, or
  • a PTE Academic overall score of 36 and no band score less than 29, or
  • a Language Cert International ESOL (LRWS) B1 Achiever with a high pass and no less than pass in each skill, or
  • a Language Cert International ESOL (LRWS) B2 Communicator with a pass and no less than pass in each skill, or
  • awarded a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Applied) (Level 3), or
  • a Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE) II with no less than a merit in any band, or
  • a B1 and B2 (formally known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)) with an overall score of 162 and no bands below 154, or
  • a Michigan English Test (formally known as Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)) minimum score of 50.

To provide flexibility to students during COVID-19 who are affected by the closure of testing centres, the University of Waikato will accept the following alternative tests for all 2023 intakes. Please note this policy is subject to review.

 
DuolingoAn overall score of at least 95 (equivalent to an IELTS score of 5.5)
IELTS IndicatorIELTS score of 5.5 (no band less than a 5.0)
TOEFL iBT Home (Plus)Overall score of 46 with a writing score of 14
* Subject to approval by Academic Board

Diploma in Postgraduate Preparation – Pre-Masters

CountryAcademic requirements 
New ZealandTwo years full time qualification at NZQF Level 6 
ArgentinaPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
AustraliaAssociate Degree or Advanced Diploma 
BangladeshFour-year Bachelors Degree 
BrazilTítulo de Tecnólogo / Grau de Tecnólogo 
BhutanThree-year Bachelors Degree 
CanadaThree-year Diploma 
ChileThree-year Grado de Bachiller 
ChinaJunior College Programme (Zhuanke) Graduate Certificate

From a recognised degree awarding institution, sub-degree awarding institution, or higher education self-study examinations committee
 
ColombiaEspecialista Tecnológico / Tecnólogo Especialist

Qualifications awarded by Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje (SENA) will be assessed on a case-by-case scenario
 
FijiHigher Education Diploma

Fiji National University or the University of Fiji is acceptible.
 
Hong Kong SARAssociate Degree or Higher Diploma

Higher Diploma must be at least two years.
 
IndiaTwo years of succesful completion of a recognised Bachelor Degree or a recognised Bachelor Degree with a third or pass class 
IndonesiaAhli Madya (Diploma III) 
IranPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
JapanPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
KenyaHigher Diploma

Awarded by the Kenya National Examinations Council, recognised polytechnics, or training institutions approved by the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK).
 
KuwaitPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
MacauDiploma de Bacharelato (Higher Diploma)

From Instituto de Formação Turística (Institute for Tourism Studies), Universidade de Macau (University of Macau), or Universidade Politécnica de Macau (Macao Polytechnic University).
 
MalaysiaAdvanced Diploma

From an MQA registered institution with accredited programmes at level 5 within the MQR.
 
MexicoPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
MongoliaPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
MyanmarFour-year Bachelor (Pass) Degree, Bachelor (Honours) Degree, or Bachelors Degree in professional subjects

Bachelors degrees in professional subjects include Bachelor of Technology, Law, Pharmacy, Medical Technology, Nursing, Community Health Nursing and Education.
 
NepalThree-year Bachelors Degree 
NigeriaHigher National Diploma (HND)

Must be at least two years in duration; also applies to awards by a recognised polytechnic, monotechnic, or specialised institution.
 
OmanThree-year Higher / Advanced Diploma 
PakistanPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
PeruTitulo de Profesional 
PhilippinesBachelors Degree

Awarded by higher education institutions with accredited programmes at Level II by Federation of Accrediting Agencies (FAAP) or Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities. A pass in the Professional Regulation Commision (PRC) exams is not required.
 
RussiaPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
SamoaBachelors Degree

The National University of Samoa is acceptable.
 
Saudi ArabiaPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
SingaporePolytechnic Specialist Diploma or Polytechnic Advanced Diploma 
South AfricaDiploma or three-year National Diploma

Diploma must be awarded by universities and registered private higher education institutions after three years of full-time study.
 
South KoreaThree-year Associate Degree or Junior College Diploma 
Sri LankaNational Diploma NVQ Level 6*, Higher National Diploma**, Higher Diploma in Social Work***

* Awarded by the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) in conjunction with recognised public or private training providers.
** Awarded by the Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technological Education (SLIATE).
*** Awarded by the National Institute of Social Development.
 
Taiwan ROCTwo-years of succesful completion of a Bachelor Degree 
ThailandPlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
TürkiyePlease contact anziscadmissions@studygroup.com for up-to-date requirements 
UAEHigher College of Technology Higher Diploma 
UKDiploma of Higher Education (DipHE), Foundation Degree*, or Higher National Diploma (HND)

* England, Wales, and Northern Ireland only.
 
USATwo-years of succesful completion of a Bachelor Degree 
VietnamBằng Tốt Nghiệp Cao Đẳng (College Diploma / Associate Degree)

Awarded from a recognised university that offers degrees up to a doctoral level.
 

All test results are valid for two years from the date of the test to the proposed start date at the University of Waikato. The requirements must be met within one test sitting or on one certificate.

  • An Academic IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in any band) or equivalent.
  • An iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) score of 80 with a writing score of 21, or
  • A TOEFL iBT Home-based overall score of 80 with a writing score of 21, or
  • A B grade or better at Level 7 in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic English, or
  • A PTE Academic overall score of 46 with a band no less than 36, or
  • A Language Cert International ESOL (LRWS) B2 Communicator with 33-37 score per skill, or
  • Awarded a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 4), or
  • a Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE) II with distinction in all four components, or
  • A B2 (formally known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)) with an overall score of 169 and no bands below 162, or
  • A C2 Proficiency (formally known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)) with an overall score of 169 and no bands below 162, or
  • A Michigan English Test (formally known as Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)) minimum score of 54.

All other evidence is considered on a case by case basis.

To provide flexibility to students during COVID-19 who are affected by the closure of testing centres, the University of Waikato will accept the following alternative tests for all 2023 intakes. Please note this policy is subject to review.

  
IELTS Indicator (this is an online version of the regular IELTS test)6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5) 
TOEFL iBT Home (Plus) (this is an online version of the regular TOEFL test)80 with a score of 21 in writing 
Duolingo English Test (DET) with the following scoresDET score of 105 for undergraduate programmes (excluding those listed below) 

Certificate of University Preparation

The entry requirements listed below are a guide, but applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

  • NCEA Level 3 30 credits in approved subjects for university entry with numeracy and literacy.
  • NCEA Level 2 certificate and 12 credits each in three approved subjects for university entry with numeracy and literacy.  Students must not have been enrolled in a high school within the last 12 months.
  • Successful completion of an NZQCF Level 3 or 4 tertiary certificate, or equivalent.

When it’s time to apply, please include a personal statement to support your application. This should include a bit about you and what you would like to do after your complete the Certificate of University Preparation programme.

CAEL & CAAE

All test results are valid for two years from the date of the test to the proposed start date at the University of Waikato. The requirements must be met within one test sitting or on one certificate.

IELTS AcademicTOEFL iBTPearson (PTE)1NZCELTrinity ISELanguage CertCambridge English 
CAAE level 1

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

 
CAAE level 2

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

 
CAAE level 3

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

IELTS score below 4.0 or Duolingo score less than 55 -

please contact the College to arrange testing

 
CAAE level 4IELTS score of 4.0 overallOverall score of 28-31Scores under 23 will be considered at the discretion of the College DirectorLevel 12ISE I with a pass in all bands

B1 Achiever IESOL (LRWS) with a Pass and no less than a Pass in each skill

25-32

 
CAAE level 5IELTS score of 4.5 overall (4.5 in the writing band and no less than 4.0 in the other bands)Overall score of 32-34 overall, with a writing score of 12PTE Academic overall score of 23 and no band score lower than 23Level 2ISE I with no less than a merit in any band

B1 Achiever IESOL (LRWS) with a Pass and no less than a Pass in each skill

33-37

 

CAAE level 6

 

 

 

 

IELTS score of 5.0 overall (5.0 in the writing band and no less than 4.5 in the other bands)Overall score of 35 overall with a writing score of 14PTE Academic overall score of 29 and no band score lower than 29Level 3 (General)ISE I with no less than distinction in any band

B1 Achiever IESOL (LRWS) with a Pass and no less than a Pass in each skill

38-50

 
CAAE level 7IELTS score of 5.5 overall (5.5 in the writing band and no less than 5.0 in the other bands)Overall score of 46 overall with a writing score of 14PTE Academic overall score of 36 and no band score lower than 29Level 3 (Applied)ISE II with no less than pass in any band

B2: Communicator IESOL (LRWS) with a Pass and no less than a Pass in each skill

25-32

 
CAAE level 8IELTS score of 6.0 overall (6.0 in the writing band and no less than 5.5 in the other bands)Overall score of 80 overall, with a writing score of 21Overall score of 46 and no band score lower than 36Level 4 (Academic)ISE II with distinction in all 4 components

C1 Expert IESOL (LRWS) with a Pass and no less than a Pass in each skill

33-37

 

To provide flexibility to students during COVID-19 who are affected by the closure of testing centres, the University of Waikato will accept the following alternative tests for all 2023 intakes. Please note this policy is subject to review.

IELTS IndicatorTOEFL iBT Home (Plus)Duolingo 
CAAE level 1IELTS score below 4.0IELTS score below 4.0 
CAAE level 2IELTS score below 4.0IELTS score below 4.0 
CAAE level 3IELTS score below 4.0IELTS score below 4.0 
CAAE level 4IELTS score of 4.0 overall (4.0 in the writing band and no less than 3.5 in the other bands), or equivalent assessed on a case-by-case basisIELTS score of 4.0 overall (4.0 in the writing band and no less than 3.5 in the other bands), or equivalent assessed on a case-by-case basis 
CAAE level 5IELTS score of 4.5 overall (4.5 in the writing band and no less than 4.0 in the other bands)Overall score of 32-34 overall, with a writing score of 12 
CAAE level 6IELTS score of 5.0 overall (5.0 in the writing band and no less than 4.5 in the other bands)Overall score of 35 overall with a writing score of 14 
CAAE level 7IELTS score of 5.5 overall (5.5 in the writing band and no less than 5.0 in the other bands)Overall score of 46 overall with a writing score of 14 
CAAE level 8IELTS score of 6.0 overall (6.0 in the writing band and no less than 5.5 in the other bands)Overall score of 80 overall, with a writing score of 21 

1 PTE updated the scale on 1st December 2020, the scores in this table are the new scores
2 Not NZCEL Level 1 (Foundation)

Students whose first language is English or te reo Māori

English will be considered the first language of citizens (passport holders) of the following countries, regardless of their actual place of residence and, who have evidence of successful tertiary study or a senior secondary qualification in the English medium:

  • The United Kingdom
  • NZ
  • Australia
  • The Republic of Ireland
  • The United States of America
  • Canada (including all provinces, if the qualification has been taught in English)
  • Singapore

New Zealand and Australian citizens and permanent residents are not included as they are domestic students and therefore do not fall under the international student language requirement.

International applicants with te reo Māori as their first language will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Divisions.

Equivalent qualifications

If you have successfully completed study in the English medium, you may not have to take a language test. This document also includes all approved alternatives to our IELTS requirements.
University of Waikato pre-degree English language requirements