Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, and choosing the right institution is key to making the most of your time abroad. If you’re considering studying in New Zealand, the Ara Institute of Canterbury might be a great option for you. Known for its practical, hands-on approach to education, Ara provides students with the skills they need to thrive in their careers. Whether you’re looking for a top-tier education or planning to explore the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand, Ara offers an excellent platform for both. In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the acceptance rate, rankings, courses, and fees at Ara Institute of Canterbury to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Ara Institute of Canterbury
Located in Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Ara Institute of Canterbury is one of the country’s leading polytechnics. The institute offers a diverse range of programs from undergraduate to postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Ara is well-regarded for its innovative teaching methods and strong connections to industry, giving students hands-on learning opportunities that help them build practical skills.
- Location: Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand
- Student Body: Ara welcomes international students from all over the world, providing a vibrant and diverse environment for learning.
- Reputation: Known for its commitment to student success, Ara has earned recognition for delivering high-quality vocational and academic education.
Ara Institute of Canterbury Acceptance Rate
Understanding the acceptance rate of a university or institute helps you gauge your chances of being admitted, especially as an international student. The acceptance rate varies by program, but Ara Institute of Canterbury is known for being accessible to many students who meet the basic academic requirements.
| Program Type | Acceptance Rate |
| Undergraduate Programs | 70% |
| Postgraduate Programs | 65% |
| Diploma & Certificate | 80% |
- Undergraduate Programs: Ara has a relatively high acceptance rate of around 70% for international students applying for undergraduate programs. Applicants who meet the academic requirements and show a strong interest in their chosen field typically have a good chance of acceptance.
- Postgraduate Programs: The acceptance rate for postgraduate programs is slightly lower at 65%, as these programs tend to be more competitive, especially for courses like business and engineering.
- Diplomas & Certificates: If you’re applying for a diploma or certificate, the acceptance rate is higher at 80%. These programs are ideal for students looking to gain specialized skills in a short period.
Rankings of Ara Institute of Canterbury
Ara Institute of Canterbury is a polytechnic and doesn’t typically appear in global university rankings, but it has an excellent reputation within New Zealand and internationally, particularly for its vocational training programs. Ara is well-regarded for producing industry-ready graduates and offering courses that are directly aligned with market demands.
| Rank Type | Rank/Recognition |
| National Ranking | Not ranked in top universities but highly respected for vocational education. |
| International Reputation | Recognized for vocational training and applied learning programs. |
| Industry Connections | Strong connections with New Zealand businesses for hands-on training opportunities. |
- National Reputation: While Ara doesn’t typically appear in global rankings like larger universities, it is highly respected for its industry connections and vocational education programs. Many students choose Ara for its practical, career-oriented approach to education.
- International Recognition: Ara has built a solid reputation internationally, particularly for its programs in health, engineering, and design. Its partnerships with businesses and industry leaders provide students with excellent career prospects.
Courses Offered at Ara Institute of Canterbury
Ara Institute of Canterbury offers a broad range of programs across various fields, from short certificate courses to full bachelor’s degrees. One of the key benefits of studying at Ara is the practical focus of its courses, designed to prepare students for real-world challenges.
| Course Field | Program Levels | Tuition Fees (Annual) |
| Business and Management | Certificate, Diploma, Degree | NZD $18,000 – NZD $25,000 |
| Health and Nursing | Degree, Diploma | NZD $20,000 – NZD $27,000 |
| Engineering and Trades | Diploma, Degree | NZD $18,000 – NZD $23,000 |
| Creative Arts and Design | Diploma, Degree | NZD $17,000 – NZD $22,000 |
| Information Technology | Degree, Diploma | NZD $19,000 – NZD $24,000 |
| Hospitality and Tourism | Certificate, Degree | NZD $16,000 – NZD $21,000 |
Popular Courses at Ara:
- Business and Management: Ara offers a wide variety of business-related programs, including a Bachelor of Applied Management that provides students with a strong foundation in leadership and business strategy.
- Health and Nursing: Ara offers nursing and healthcare programs, with a focus on practical experience in real healthcare settings. The Bachelor of Nursing is one of the institute’s most sought-after programs.
- Engineering and Trades: Ara offers programs in engineering, including mechanical and civil engineering, and also has a strong focus on trades such as plumbing and electrical work.
- Creative Arts and Design: Whether you’re interested in graphic design, fashion, or digital media, Ara’s Bachelor of Design program offers the skills necessary to excel in these creative fields.
- Information Technology: Ara’s Bachelor of IT provides students with the skills needed to thrive in the tech industry, including software development and network systems.
- Hospitality and Tourism: As New Zealand’s tourism industry continues to grow, Ara’s programs in hospitality management provide students with the practical skills needed to succeed in this thriving sector.
Qualification Levels:
- Certificates: Short programs focused on developing specialized skills.
- Diplomas: Programs that provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
- Bachelor’s Degrees: Comprehensive academic programs that lead to undergraduate degrees.
- Postgraduate Programs: Higher-level programs designed for those with a bachelor’s degree looking to specialize further.
Tuition Fees at Ara Institute of Canterbury
Understanding tuition fees is crucial when planning your finances for studying abroad. Ara Institute of Canterbury offers competitive fees, particularly for vocational courses and certificates. Below is an overview of tuition fees for international students:
| Program Type | Tuition Fees (Annual) | Additional Costs |
| Certificate & Diploma | NZD $15,000 – NZD $20,000 | Student Services Fee: NZD $500 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | NZD $20,000 – NZD $25,000 | Accommodation: NZD $200 – NZD $300 per week |
| Postgraduate Programs | NZD $22,000 – NZD $30,000 | Health Insurance: NZD $500 – NZD $700 per year |
- Certificate & Diploma: Tuition fees range from NZD $15,000 to NZD $20,000 per year. These are typically shorter programs aimed at equipping students with industry-specific skills.
- Bachelor’s Degrees: For a Bachelor’s Degree, the fees typically range from NZD $20,000 to NZD $25,000 per year. These programs offer more comprehensive learning and longer durations.
- Postgraduate Programs: Postgraduate programs are generally more expensive, with fees ranging from NZD $22,000 to NZD $30,000 per year.
Additional Costs:
- Student Services Fee: Around NZD $500 per year.
- Accommodation: University-managed accommodation typically costs NZD $200 to NZD $300 per week.
- Health Insurance: International students are required to have health insurance, which can cost between NZD $500 and NZD $700 per year.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Ara offers a variety of scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships are available for international students and can help reduce tuition costs.
| Scholarship Type | Amount/Details | Eligibility |
| Ara International Scholarship | Up to NZD $3,000 off tuition fees | For new international students |
| New Zealand Government Scholarships | Full coverage of tuition & living expenses | For students from selected countries |
| Pacific Islands Scholarship | NZD $2,000 – NZD $5,000 | For Pacific Islands students |
Be sure to check the Ara website for the most up-to-date scholarship information and application deadlines.
Accommodation Options at Ara Institute of Canterbury
Finding suitable accommodation is one of the biggest challenges for international students. Ara offers on-campus housing as well as options for private rentals.
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Cost | Location |
| University-managed Housing | NZD $200 – NZD $300 | On-campus or nearby |
| Private Rentals | NZD $150 – NZD $350 | Off-campus, shared/private |
Conclusion
Ara Institute of Canterbury offers a high-quality, practical education in a variety of fields, making it an excellent choice for international students. With competitive fees, a supportive environment, and a strong focus on industry connections, Ara provides an ideal platform for students to build successful careers. Whether you are pursuing a business degree, training in a trade, or aiming to enter the tech industry, Ara has the programs and resources to help you succeed.