NEW ZEALAND · CHRISTCHURCH
University of Canterbury
public · Founded 1873 · Languages: en
In short
The University of Canterbury (UC) in Christchurch, New Zealand, offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with an emphasis on student-centred learning and research. It provides international students with a vibrant campus life and opportunities for practical experience and cultural engagement.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1873
- Students
- 16,444
- International students
- 2,500
- Acceptance rate
- 60%
- Tuition (intl)
- €17–24k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Christchurch, New Zealand
The University of Canterbury (UC) is a public university located in Christchurch, New Zealand. Founded in 1873, it is the second-oldest university in New Zealand. UC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including Arts, Business, Education, Engineering, Health, Law, and Science. UC is committed to providing a student-centred learning experience, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for successful careers globally. The university's strong ties to its community and its location in Christchurch, a city undergoing regeneration, offer unique opportunities for practical experience and research. UC emphasizes research-informed teaching and provides state-of-the-art facilities for learning and innovation. The university encourages a holistic development approach, with opportunities for internships, community engagement, and cultural experiences. UC also focuses on bicultural heritage, integrating Māori language and culture into its curriculum and campus life.
Why study here
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and research opportunities across various fields.
- Emphasis on practical learning through internships, fieldwork, and real-world projects.
- A diverse range of subject areas and flexible degree options, including double degrees and minors.
- Opportunities for international exchange programs and engagement with global issues.
- A supportive learning environment that promotes critical thinking and personal development.
Student life
University of Canterbury offers a vibrant, student-centred campus life on its Ilam campus, with active clubs, societies and sports, on-campus accommodation options, and strong support services. Its location in Christchurch and the wider South Island gives students easy access to outdoor adventure, from skiing to hiking, alongside a regenerating, culturally rich city. UC also integrates Māori language and bicultural heritage into campus life.
Fees
InternationalInternational undergraduate tuition typically ranges from roughly 17,000 to 24,000 EUR per year depending on the programme, with science, engineering and health degrees at the higher end. Most international students also pay compulsory student services and insurance levies.
HomeDomestic (New Zealand and eligible Australian) students pay subsidised fees and may access the government Fees Free scheme for part of their study.
LivingInternational students should budget approximately 12,000–16,000 EUR per year for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses in Christchurch; Immigration New Zealand sets a minimum funds requirement for the student visa.
International students must hold appropriate medical and travel insurance for the duration of their study, as required under New Zealand's Education (Pastoral Care) Code. Fee figures are indicative and should be confirmed on the university's fees pages.
Admissions
IELTS AcademicSatisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
TOEFL iBTSatisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
CCEL English for Academic Purposes Level 2 (EAP Level 2)Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
C2 Proficiency (formerly Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE))Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
C1 Advanced (formerly Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE))Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE)Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL)Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
LanguageCert (International ESOL and Academic)Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
Duolingo English Test (DET)Satisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
English New Zealand Accredited Pathway AssessmentSatisfactory standard in one sitting within two years of study start date
Rankings
QS World University Rankings#261 (2025)
University scholarships
UC International First Year ScholarshipPartial tuition award
UC Connect International ScholarshipVaries
Accreditation
The UC Business School holds Triple Crown Accreditation, placing it among the top 1% of business schools worldwide.
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Canterbury · New Zealand
Anthropology and Sociology Study Options
The University of Canterbury offers study options in Anthropology and Sociology at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Anthropology delves into the study of human societies and cultures, exploring how people live around the world and providing insights into familiar concepts by examining distant ones. Sociology offers a broad range of research interests, focusing on societal structures and dynamics, and is also part of an innovative Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree. Both disciplines equip students with valuable analytical, research, and communication skills applicable to a variety of career paths.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Canterbury · New Zealand
Art History and Theory
Study Art History and Theory at the University of Canterbury (UC) to explore unique subjects within a well-resourced and dynamic department. This field of study prepares graduates for diverse careers as art writers, scholars, curators, and professionals in museum and heritage conservation. UC offers pathways from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, including a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, a Postgraduate Diploma in Art Curatorship, and Master's and PhD programs.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Canterbury · New Zealand
Arts - Research Thesis
The Faculty of Arts at the University of Canterbury (UC) offers postgraduate research degrees by thesis, including Master's and Doctoral programs. These programs span a broad range of disciplines within the social sciences, humanities, and creative and digital arts. You will be guided by experienced supervisors and have access to excellent research facilities and centres. This pathway is ideal for students passionate about in-depth research within culture, society, language, history, or creative expression. You'll join a supportive, interdisciplinary research community that encourages original thinking and critical inquiry. A research degree in Arts at UC will equip you with advanced expertise, independent thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to make significant contributions to your field and society, preparing you for careers in academia, policy, the creative sector, or global leadership.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Canterbury · New Zealand
Arts Postgraduate Study
The University of Canterbury (UC) offers a range of postgraduate study options within the Faculty of Arts. These programs are designed to deepen your knowledge and equip you to address complex challenges in your chosen field. Options include certificates, diplomas, Honours degrees, Master's degrees, and Doctoral degrees. Postgraduate study at UC Arts can range from career-oriented taught Master's programs to in-depth research-focused Master's and PhD degrees. Flexible certificates and diplomas are also available, allowing you to study around your work commitments.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Canterbury · New Zealand
Bachelor of Arts (BA) Specialisations
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) at the University of Canterbury offers a flexible degree structure where you can specialise in a themed area of study. Beyond traditional majors and minors, BA Specialisations allow you to combine courses from different disciplines around a central theme. This interdisciplinary approach equips you with diverse perspectives and problem-solving skills. Each specialisation forms a significant part of your degree, offering a deep dive into a chosen field while still allowing you to pursue a minor in another subject.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Canterbury · New Zealand
Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours
The Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours is a program designed to explore the convergence of technologies within the growing global digital screen sector. This field encompasses areas like film production, game development, augmented and virtual reality, digital storytelling, and interactive experiences. The program focuses on educating and developing the talent needed for these rapidly expanding industries, which are experiencing significant growth across cinema, streaming, gaming, and cross-reality platforms.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for New Zealand
full fundingTe Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington
Craig Buck Andrews PhD Scholarship
Open to domestic and international applicants of all nationalities who are admitted to, or enrolled in, a full-time PhD in the School of Accounting and Commercial Law at Victoria University of Wellington. The doctoral thesis must address financial reporting or financial management in developing countries, with a focus on capacity building in primary industries or industries operating under concession agreements. Preference may be given to applicants from developing nations who intend to return home after completing their studies. Applicants must meet the university's standard doctoral entry requirements.
full
Funding
€57k
Max
Oct 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingNew Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) – New Zealand Aid Programme
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
For citizens of eligible developing countries (Pacific, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean) who meet age, work-experience, and academic requirements, and who commit to returning home for at least 2 years after study. Applicants apply online and, for some countries, through local processes.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingLincoln University, New Zealand
Lincoln University New Zealand International Scholarships
Open to new international students enrolling in undergraduate, foundation/pathway, or 180-credit taught master's programmes at Lincoln University in New Zealand. Award lines have their own rules: the Taught Master's Merit Scholarship requires a B+ average in the final bachelor's year, while undergraduate awards target new school leavers and degree entrants. English language requirements are generally IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0. Each scholarship line has its own application route and deadline.
partial
Funding
€6k
Max
Jan 31, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at the University of Canterbury?
+
International undergraduate tuition fees at the University of Canterbury typically range from approximately 17,000 to 24,000 EUR per year, depending on the specific program of study. Science, engineering, and health degrees are generally at the higher end of this range.
What are the estimated living costs for international students in Christchurch?
+
International students should budget around 12,000–16,000 EUR per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses in Christchurch. Immigration New Zealand also sets a minimum funds requirement for student visas.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
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International students must demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, and the Duolingo English Test, among others, with specific score requirements to be met within two years of the study start date.
Does the University of Canterbury offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, the University of Canterbury offers scholarships such as the UC International First Year Scholarship for high-achieving students and the UC Connect International Scholarship for students from selected countries. These scholarships can provide partial tuition awards or vary in amount.
What makes the University of Canterbury unique for international students?
+
UC emphasizes a student-centred learning experience, research-informed teaching, and holistic development with opportunities for internships and community engagement. It also integrates Māori language and culture, offering a unique bicultural heritage experience.
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