How do I Apply to Study at Whitireia?

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.

What do I need to Apply?

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 authorized and if your application is successful you will be issued an Offer of Place Letter. This will set out your fees for your programme of study, a quote for compulsory insurance, other related costs and provide details of how to pay this money.

You will either need to pay by bank transfer (details are listed in the Offer of Place) or come into 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 the 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.

How do I get my Student Visa?

Once you have received your Offer of Place Letter, you pay your fees to Whitireia New Zealand. 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.

 How and when do I get an ID card?

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?

You must inform your tutor or Faculty, fill in an International Refund Policy form and discuss your requirements with the International Unit.

What is Whitireia New Zeland's Refund Policy?

Please look at Whitireia New Zealand's 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.

Can I use my outstanding English fees towards another course?

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.

What about homestays?

Our International marketing Department can arrange a homestay for you if you request this or tick 'yes' for homestay on the application/enrolment form. The cost for homestay in the Porirua, Wellington and Kapiti areas is NZ$180 per week. In Auckland it is NZ$200 a week. Students must stay a minimum of four weeks in a homestay before choosing other accommodation.

How do I pay the homestay?

You can pay the homestay directly, two weeks in advance.

Do you have any hostels at Whitireia Community Polytechnic?

We have a hostel close to Whitireia. It costs NZ$160 per week in Porirua. Students are provided with two meals per day.

What happens when I arrive at Wellington Airport? Will someone meet me?

Your homestay or hostel parent will be there to meet you. They will be carrying a Whitireia New Zealand sign with your name on it to identify themselves.

Can I drive in New Zealand?

If you have an up-to-date drivers licence, you can drive for up to 12 months on your foreign licence. Then you must sit a New Zealand licence.

Can I work in New Zealand?

You can work up to 15 hours per week if you are enrolled in a full time Diploma or Degree programme. You cannot work if you are only studying English unless you are on a special working holiday visa.

Whom can I phone or see if I have any queries?

Please feel free to telephone International Marketing Department
+64 4 237 3100 or visit us in the Student Services Block, Porirua Campus. We are open from 8.30am to 5pm weekdays.

What support is available to International Students at Whitireia Polytechnic?

At Whitireia we have a number of staff who are there to support you. Chrissie Wolfensohn is the International Student Support Coordinator in Wellington and Christina Honan is the counsellor in Auckland. Chrissie and Christina are there to discuss any personal problems you may have. The rest of the department can help with academic matters, visas, etc.

We also offer support from a nurse, a counsellor and a financial advisor and a doctor (whose visits are heavily subsidised).

We look forward to welcoming you to Whitireia New Zealand.