Ara Institute of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand
Quick facts
- World rank
- #2,000
- Acceptance rate
- 85%
- Students
- 17,000
- International students
- 10%
- Institution type
- Public
- Founded
- 2016
Overview
Ara Institute of Canterbury is the largest institute of technology in the South Island of New Zealand, providing a wide range of vocational and academic qualifications. It is known for its practical, industry-focused approach to education, preparing students for success in their chosen careers.
Fields of study
- Animal and Laboratory Science
- Architecture and Construction Management
- Art and Design
- Business
- Digital Technologies
- Engineering
- English
- Hospitality, Food and Beverage
- Foundation Studies
- Hair, Beauty and Massage
- Health
- Health Promotion, Nutrition, Sport and Exercise
- Language and Education
- Māori and Pacific
- Music
- Music Theatre
- Broadcasting
- Trades
- Sustainability and Outdoor Education
- Social Work
Accreditation: New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
Admissions requirements
- IELTS (minimum)
- —
- TOEFL iBT (minimum)
- —
- GPA (minimum)
- —
- Intakes
- February, July
- Application deadlines
- Varies by course; rolling admissions for many programs.
- Rolling admissions
- Yes
- Admissions contact
- info@ara.ac.nz
Requirements differ between programs. Check the program page and the university's admissions office for the latest criteria.
Tuition & costs
International students
NZ$20,000 – NZ$40,000 / year
From about $12,000 / year
Domestic students
NZ$15,000 – NZ$35,000 / year
Fees vary significantly between vocational certificates and professional degrees. International fees include Student Services Levy.
Tuition varies by program. Confirm with the university before applying.
Official fee source (opens in a new tab)Programs
| Program | Level | Duration | Tuition | Deadline | Intakes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Architectural Studies (opens in a new tab)English · Full Time | Bachelor's | 3 years | NZ$27,500 / year | Varies | February |
| Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) (opens in a new tab)English · Full Time | Bachelor's | 3 years | NZ$27,500 / year | Varies | February |
| Bachelor of Information Technology (opens in a new tab)English · Full Time/Part Time | Bachelor's | 3 years | NZ$24,500 / year | Varies | February, July |
| Bachelor of Nursing (opens in a new tab)English · Full Time | Bachelor's | 3 years | NZ$26,800 / year | Varies | February |
| Master of Applied Professional Practice (opens in a new tab)English · Full Time | Master's | 18 months | NZ$32,000 / total | Varies | February, July |
Last updated Oct 14, 2026. Fees, deadlines and requirements change — always confirm with the university.