Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers some frequently asked questions
How do I Apply to Study at Whitireia?
International Students
You can apply yourself or by using an agent. Your application/enrolment form can be posted, you can apply online or you can come in to our International Marketing Office on campus where you can fill out the application/enrolment form.
Domestic Students
You apply by filling in an application/enrolment form. This can be posted, you can apply online or you can fill it in and drop it off at the office of any Whitireia campus.
What do I need to Apply?
International Students
You or your agent needs to complete the application/enrolment form. You must supply a copy of your latest IELTS result (no more than 2 years old) and a copy of your valid passport. You may also wish to supply documentation relating to other relevant qualifications, or work experience and career wishes.
Your information will be assessed and authorised and if your application is successful you will be issued an Offer of Place Letter. This will include the fees for your programme of study, a quote for compulsory insurance and other related costs and provide details of how to pay these charges.
You will need to pay by bank transfer (details are listed in the Offer of Place) or come in to the International Office and pay the cashier. You will not be enrolled in your programme of study until you have paid in full the amount stated on your Offer of Place Letter. You will need to pay for your programme of study at least two weeks before your programme commences. If you have supplied all the relevant information your enrolment will be processed within 42 hours.
Domestic Students
You need to complete an application/enrolment form. You must supply documentation to establish citizenship and verification of your identity, like a passport or birth certificate. If your name is different than that on your birth certificate, you need to enclose your marriage or deed poll certificate. Depending on the criteria for the course you are enrolling in, you might need to supply other documentation, such as proof of educational achievements. A verified copy of an original document is acceptable (that is, a copy endorsed by a JP, Registrar or Deputy Registrar of the Court.)
How do I get my Student Visa?
International Students
Once you have received your Offer of Place Letter, you pay your fees to Whitireia Community Polytechnic. When you have received your receipt, you can take your Offer of Place letter and receipt to the New Zealand Immigration Office in your country. They will issue you with a visa and you can start your course. You must then give a copy of your student visa to the International Staff to keep on your file.
Domestic Students
Not applicable.
How and when do I get an ID card?
International Students and Domestic Students
When your enrolment has been processed and your course is about to start, please come to Customer Services to have an ID card issued. We will take your photo and print your card while you wait. You need an ID card to access the library, the learning management systems and to log in to the computers at the polytechnic.
What happens if I decide to withdraw from all or part of my programme?
International Students
You must inform your tutor or faculty, fill in an International Refund Policy form and discuss your requirements with the International Unit.
Domestic Students
Inform your tutor and faculty. You must also complete and sign a withdrawal form.
What is Whitireia Community Polytechnic's Refund Policy?
International Students
Please look at the International Student Refund Policy. If you think you are entitled to get a refund, you must complete an International Refund Policy form and discuss your requirements with the International Marketing team.
Domestic Students
If you enrolled in a full-time course and withdraw within two weeks of the course start date, you will receive a full refund minus an administration fee. If you withdraw within a month after course start date, you will receive an 80% refund minus administration costs. Withdrawals after that will still require full payment of fees. If you enrolled in a short course, please consult the enrolment and administration staff.
Can I use my outstanding English fees towards another course?
International Students
If you are accepted onto a mainstream Whitireia course, you can credit any outstanding ESOL fees towards the cost. We charge a NZ$75 administration fee.
Domestic Students
Discuss with Customer Services as decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
What about home stays?
International Students
Our International Marketing Department can arrange a home stay for you if you request this or tick 'yes' for home stay on the application/enrolment form. The cost at the Porirua, Wellington and Kapiti campuses is NZ$180 per week. At Auckland it is NZ$200 a week. Students must stay a minimum of four weeks in a home stay before choosing other accommodation.
Domestic Students
We do not arrange home stays for domestic students.