Study MBBS in New Zealand

New Zealand boasts one of the highest doctor-to-patient ratios in the world, with approximately 3.7 doctors per 1,000 people. This impressive statistic reflects the country's commitment to quality healthcare and medical education.

MBBS in New Zealand is a highly sought-after programme, offering world-class facilities, excellent research opportunities, and a curriculum designed to produce highly skilled medical professionals. Here's an overview of MBBS in New Zealand:

Let us explore all we need to know about pursuing an MBBS in New Zealand from courses and schools to study costs and career scope after graduation.

Course Structure of MBBS in New Zealand

Here is the detailed programme structure for MBBS in New Zealand for international students:

Classroom Learning: Years 1-2
Focus on fundamental medical sciences such as biochemistry, physiology, and anatomy, alongside an introduction to clinical systems including cardiology and endocrinology, which covers diabetology. The coursework includes lectures, seminars, and laboratory sessions to build a strong foundation in medical knowledge and ethics.

Practical Training: Years 3-4
Emphasise clinical skills and practical training. Students engage in small-group tutorials and practical exercises to develop their clinical competencies. They begin to interact with patients under supervision, practising essential skills such as history-taking, physical examination, and diagnostic procedures.

Clinical Rotations: Years 5-6
Students undertake clinical rotations across various specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, psychiatry, and obstetrics. These rotations provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in diagnosing and treating patients. They work in hospitals and clinics, gaining exposure to different medical disciplines and patient care scenarios.

Additional Aspects

• Exams and Assessments: Throughout the programme, students must pass various exams, including written, practical, and clinical assessments.
• Internship: After completing the MBBS programme, graduates are required to undertake a year of supervised practice, known as an internship, to obtain full medical registration.

Related Read: Best Universities to Study in New Zealand

Is your profile competitive for the University of Auckland or the University of Otago? With only two major medical schools in New Zealand, the bar is set high: a minimum 6.0 GPA (on 7.0) in core pre-med papers and a strong UCAT ANZ percentile (Verbal Reasoning & Situational Judgement) are non-negotiable.

Register now to assess your academic standing and English proficiency with a free Clinical Profile Audit followed by end-to-end career guidance ahead. Our experts will ensure your application meets the rigorous standards of New Zealand’s medical boards.

Eligibility Requirements for MBBS in New Zealand

To pursue an MBBS in New Zealand, international students must meet several academic and non-academic criteria. Here are the essential eligibility requirements:

Academic Prerequisites

• Completion of 10+2 or equivalent education with a strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
• High academic performance in relevant subjects.

Age Limits

• In general, there is no specific age limit, but applicants must meet all academic and examination requirements.

Required Examinations

• UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand) is mandatory.

English Proficiency Tests

• IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.0 bands
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
• TOEFL PBT: Minimum score of 550
• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58

Documents

• Transcripts of previous education
• Proof of English proficiency
• Copy of your valid passport
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Personal Statement or SOP
• Health and character certificates (if required by the university)

Other Prerequisites

• Completion of 10+2 education with a focus on science subjects
• Meeting the specified English language proficiency scores
• Successful completion of entrance examinations (UCAT ANZ) and interviews

By meeting these requirements, students can enhance their chances of securing admission to prestigious MBBS programmes in New Zealand.

Admission Process for MBBS in New Zealand

Here is a step-by-step guide to the admission process for MBBS in New Zealand:

Research and Prepare

• Research the MBBS programmes offered by universities in New Zealand.
• Ensure eligibility by reviewing academic prerequisites, required examinations, and other criteria.

Complete Prerequisite Courses

• For the University of Auckland: Complete 08 core courses under BHSc or BSc Biomedical Science full-time in the year of application.
• For the University of Otago: Complete the Health Sciences First Year Course, achieving at least 70% in each course on the first attempt.

Take Required Examinations

• Register for and take the UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand).
• Take an English proficiency test such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic, if applicable.

Check out the complete list of exams required to study in New Zealand for international students.

Gather Required Documents

• Collect transcripts of previous education.
• Obtain proof of English proficiency.
• Prepare letters of recommendation and a personal statement.
• Ensure a valid passport and other necessary identification documents are ready.

Submit Applications

• Apply online through the university's application portal.
• Pay the application fee and submit all required documents.

Application Review

• The university admissions office reviews applications based on academic performance, UCAT ANZ scores, and other criteria.

Interview Invitation

• Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview (for the University of Auckland, this includes a multi-mini interview).

Attend Interview

• Prepare for and attend the interview, focusing on communication skills, critical thinking, and motivation for studying medicine.

Receive Admission Decision

• Admission decisions are based on a combination of GPA, UCAT ANZ scores, and interview performance.
• Successful applicants will receive an offer of admission.

Accept Offer and Enrol

• Accept the offer by the specified deadline.
• Complete the enrollment process, including payment of tuition fees and submission of any additional required documentation.

Prepare for Arrival

• Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa.
• Arrange accommodation and travel to New Zealand.
• Attend orientation sessions and begin the MBBS programme.

Applying for an MBChB in New Zealand is a two-step marathon. You must first excel in a Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) or Biomedical Science year before facing the MMI interviews and the UCAT ANZ exam. UCAT ANZ bookings open in March and close in May.

Don't let the first-year hurdle stop your medical career. Register with AECC today for a Pre-Med Strategy Session. Our experts will help you map out your first-year core subjects and provide resources for UCAT success.

MBBS Intakes in New Zealand

In New Zealand, several top-ranked universities offer MBBS programmes with three intakes: February, July, and Rolling Intakes. These intakes provide flexibility for students to study MBBS in New Zealand at various times throughout the year.

Check out the upcoming intakes in New Zealand for detailed planning of your application for an MBBS in New Zealand.

MBBS Fees in New Zealand

Outlined below are the estimated costs associated with pursuing an MBBS in New Zealand, including tuition fees, study material costs, application fees, living costs, and insurance-related expenses.

Combining tuition fees and additional costs, students should expect to budget approximately NZ $90,000 - $110,000 per year, depending on their living arrangements and lifestyle choices.

An MBBS in New Zealand is a premium investment, with international tuition fees ranging from NZ $70,000 to over NZ $80,000 per year. However, high-achieving students can qualify for International Excellence Scholarships that ease the burden.

Register with AECC and get a medical budget planner created by our experts and explore scholarship opportunities at Auckland and Otago specifically for medical studies. Secure your academic future without financial stress.

MBBS Scholarships in New Zealand

New Zealand offers several scholarships for international students pursuing an MBBS degree, providing valuable financial support to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. Here are some prominent New Zealand scholarships available for international students:

New Zealand International Scholarships (NZIS)

Offered By: New Zealand Government

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a citizen of an eligible country
• Must have completed secondary education with good academic standing
• Must meet the university’s entry requirements for the MBBS programme

Application Procedure

• Applications are typically open from February to April each year
• Apply through the New Zealand Government's official scholarship website
• Submit required documents including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a personal statement

University of Otago International Excellence Scholarship

Offered By: University of Otago

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an international student
• Must have an offer to study MBBS at the University of Otago
• Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement

Application Procedure

• Apply for the MBBS programme first, then apply for the scholarship
• Submit the scholarship application through the university’s online portal
• Provide academic transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and a personal statement

University of Auckland International Student Scholarships

Offered By: University of Auckland

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an international student
• Must be enrolled in the MBBS programme
• Academic excellence and demonstrated leadership qualities are preferred

Application Procedure

• Apply for the MBBS programme at the University of Auckland
• Submit the scholarship application through the university’s scholarship portal
• Include academic records, proof of English proficiency, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Aotearoa New Zealand International Excellence Scholarship

Offered By: Aotearoa New Zealand (various institutions)

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an international student
• Demonstrate exceptional academic performance and potential
• Enrolled in a full-time MBBS programme

Application Procedure

• Application deadlines vary by institution; check specific deadlines on their websites
• Apply through the respective institution’s scholarship application portal
• Provide necessary documentation including academic transcripts and a personal statement

Career After MBBS in New Zealand

After completing an MBBS in New Zealand, fresh graduates can pursue a career in surgery. Initially, due to limited experience, doctors participate in group surgeries rather than performing solo operations. However, the demand for medical professionals is high due to a shortage of doctors in the country.

Here’s a breakdown of the various job roles available along with an estimation of the average salaries:

Source: Indeed, ZipRecruiter

For aspiring MBBS students in New Zealand, the journey offers a wealth of opportunities and challenges. The MBBS programmes span 6 years, combining rigorous classroom learning, hands-on practical training, and extensive clinical rotations.

Graduates can pursue diverse career paths, including specialisation in fields such as surgery, general medicine, and psychiatry. The demand for medical professionals in New Zealand is high, with competitive salaries depending on the role and sector.

The medical profession is a top priority on the New Zealand Green List, offering a straight-to-residence pathway for qualified doctors. Your 6-year journey, including the Trainee Intern (TI) year, is designed to lead directly into New Zealand's healthcare system.

From medical student to registered NZ resident, get your PR & medical career roadmap. Register with AECC experts and learn how the MCNZ registration and the NZREX Clinical exam work for international graduates.