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Discover the Path to Your Medical Career in New Zealand!

Nestled in the serene landscapes of New Zealand, two esteemed universities offer an exceptional MBBS program designed to shape the future of aspiring doctors. With a comprehensive six-year curriculum that seamlessly blends advanced technology with world-class facilities, studying medicine here is not just an education—it's an experience!

Both universities rank prominently in the prestigious QS Rankings for MBBS colleges in New Zealand (2020), ensuring that you receive a quality education. While each institution features its own medical college, it’s worth noting that the University of Otago’s medical college holds recognition from the Medical Council of India (MCI), making it a top choice for international students.

(Read More: Why New Zealand is an exceptional choice for overseas education?)

To embark on this journey, prospective students should have completed their 12th grade with a strong focus on science, particularly Biology. The investment in your future is also manageable, with estimated costs for pursuing the MBBS program ranging from NZ$70,000 to NZ$80,000. Plus, graduates can look forward to lucrative opportunities, with an anticipated annual income of approximately NZ$150,000 to NZ$160,000.

Take the first step towards a rewarding medical career in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand!

Overview of the MBBS Program in New Zealand

• Studying MBBS in New Zealand entails a six-year curriculum focusing on the study of medicine and surgery.
• The program includes a two-year pre-clinical theoretical phase followed by a three-year clinical practice component.
• In the final year, students can select elective subjects based on their preferred specialization.
• The clinical practice component covers a range of disciplines including general medicine, emergency medicine, general surgery, psychiatry, dentistry, and general practice, among others.
• Upon completion of the fifth year, the college conducts an entrance examination to assess eligibility for the sixth year.
• During the course, students have the option to undertake a four-week elective program in a specific subject during the fifth year and an eight-week program in the sixth year.

Indian students aspiring to study MBBS in New Zealand should familiarize themselves with the educational structure, which differs slightly from that of their home country. The inclusion of the two colleges within the purview of the New Zealand Qualification Authority ensures that despite the variance in course structure, students receive high-quality education.

(Read More: List of countries to study MBBS Abroad)

Duration of the MBBS Program in New Zealand

The MBBS program in New Zealand spans six years. Here are the specifics regarding the duration of the MBBS course:

• The MBBS program in New Zealand extends over a period of five years, followed by a mandatory one-year internship program for every medical student.
• All courses are delivered in the English language.
• During their studies, students undergo an advanced training program organized by the medical universities in New Zealand.

Requirements for Admission to MBBS Programs in New Zealand

In addition to completing 12th grade with Science subjects, including Biology and English, with a minimum aggregate of 75%, the essential eligibility criteria for the two universities differ. The specifics are outlined as follows:

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 17 years old and no more than 25 years old before the 31st of December in the admission year.
• Qualification Criteria: Applicants must have completed the 10+2 level or possess a bachelor's degree in the field of science or an equivalent discipline to be eligible for application.
• UCAT: Applicants must clear the mandatory entrance exam, UCAT, before applying for MBBS programs in New Zealand.
• IELTS/TOEFL: Applicants must pass the English language proficiency test as a mandatory requirement for applying to MBBS programs in New Zealand.
• NEET: Clearing the NEET entrance test is mandatory for all medical aspirants before applying to study medicine in New Zealand.

Verification of English Language Proficiency for International Students

International students must provide IELTS or TOEFL scores as evidence of their English language proficiency. The minimum score requirements for pursuing MBBS in New Zealand are as follows:

• IELTS: 6.0
• TOEFL (iBT): 80

The general prerequisite for gaining admission to MBBS programs in New Zealand typically involves either possessing a prior bachelor's degree or completing a foundational year at the respective university with a specific GPA. Non-native English-speaking students are required to submit proof of language proficiency along with other necessary documents. Additionally, you will need to take the UMAT exam (now UCAT), a medical entrance test.

Best Universities for Pursuing MBBS in New Zealand

Both the University of Otago and the University of Auckland offer MBBS programs for those interested in studying medicine abroad.

MBBS Program at the University of Otago

Similar to the University of Auckland, admission to the University of Otago for international students pursuing medicine can be obtained through one of the following pathways:

• Health Sciences First Year: Aspirants are required to be enrolled in the university's health sciences program. To qualify for the M.B. ChB program, one must achieve a minimum of 70% marks in all prescribed papers and meet the entry requirements of the medical admissions committee. It is crucial to pass all courses in the first attempt while pursuing the program full-time.
• Graduate Entry: Applicants should possess a prior bachelor's degree or bachelor's with honors from any university in New Zealand. The degree must be completed within the minimum duration, and the GPA must meet the standards set by the medical admissions committee.

Admissions are solely based on the individual's academic achievements. In cases where interviews are conducted, your admission decision may be influenced by your performance during the interview.

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MBBS Program at the University of Auckland

To secure admission into the MBBS program at the University of Auckland, international students can apply for New Zealand education through two pathways: First-year entry from BHSc/BSc or through Graduate Entry.

• First Year Entry: For first-year applicants, the completion of eight specified courses during the initial year of BSc or Bachelor of Health Science at the University of Auckland is required. All full-time courses should be completed in the first attempt and within the application year for the M.B. ChB program.

An overall GPA of 6.0 on an 8.0 scale is mandatory across all eight courses to qualify for an interview. Additionally, the submission of the UMAT score is necessary. Admission decisions are based on the GPA (weighted at 60%), UMAT score (weighted at 15%), and performance in multi-mini interviews (weighted at 25%).

• Graduate Entry: International students aiming for graduate entry into the M.B. ChB program must hold a relevant prior degree, which can be in any pre-medical course. Shortlisted applicants, based on their academic performance, will undergo a Skype/phone interview. Admission offers are solely determined by academic excellence and performance in the interview.

MBBS in New Zealand for Indian Students Fees

Both the University of Auckland and the University of Otago comprise two affiliated colleges each. The fee structure for these colleges is outlined as follows:

• University of Auckland - Approximately 14 lakhs for the initial year and 33 lakhs for the subsequent five years.
• University of Otago - Approximately 14 lakhs for the first year and 32 lakhs for the ensuing five years.

Numerous scholarships are available to Indian and other international students, easing the financial burden associated with MBBS education in New Zealand.

The average annual living cost for students in New Zealand amounts to approximately NZ$14,000 to NZ$16,000, in addition to the MBBS program fees. This sum encompasses expenses related to accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.

Most colleges provide a hall of residence (hostel) option on a double-sharing basis, which is the most economical choice for international students. Alternatively, furnished flats are available as part of the college's private hostels. Another option is a homestay arrangement, allowing students to reside with a New Zealand family as paying guests.

Public transportation in New Zealand is reasonably priced, with standard metro ticket fares ranging from NZ$1.25 to NZ$2.00.

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Scholarships for MBBS in New Zealand

Several scholarships for international students studying in New Zealand are offered by various universities, some of which also cover travel and miscellaneous costs.

These scholarships substantially alleviate the financial burden of pursuing an MBBS in New Zealand for Indian students.

Some examples of these scholarships include:

1. New Zealand Excellence Award

Eligibility: Must be an Indian citizen; Minimum GPA should be B+ in the highest qualification.

Annual Stipend (In NZ$): 18,000

1. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship

Eligibility: Must be a new, full fee-paying international student; Must be enrolled as an 'on-campus' student.

Annual Stipend (In NZ$): 10,000

1. Generation Study Abroad Excellence and Travel Awards (only for U.S. students)

Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen; Minimum GPA-3.0

Annual Stipend (In NZ$): 3458 for the travel award; 865 for the excellence award

1. TWJ Johnson Scholarship in Clinical Medicine

Eligibility: Completed part 3 of the MBChB degree at the University of Auckland; Required GPA - 7.0

Annual Stipend (In NZ$): 6000

1. University of Auckland MBChB Graduate Entry-International student scholarship

Eligibility: Pursuing MBChB; Admission through the international graduate entry category

Annual Stipend (In NZ$): up to 70,000

Career Prospects following MBBS in New Zealand

Post-MBBS, individuals can opt for surgical practice with certain limitations on performing independent surgeries. Given the limited experience, participation in group surgeries is encouraged. Due to a shortage of doctors in the country, there is a high demand for medical professionals.

Upon completion of the degree, the average annual income for a doctor ranges from NZ$100,000 to NZ$250,000. The advanced technology available in New Zealand presents excellent earning prospects for medical graduates.

Competent candidates recruited by the District Health Board receive an annual salary of approximately NZ$150,000 to NZ$200,000. Physicians employed in the private sector can earn an additional NZ$20,000, as private hospitals offer competitive remuneration packages in the country.

MBBS in New Zealand is a six-year program, paving the way for graduates to begin practicing in the country with a lucrative income. Currently, approximately 30,000 international students are pursuing MBBS and similar undergraduate courses at universities in New Zealand.

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The MBBS degree from New Zealand is internationally recognized and highly esteemed. Graduates from New Zealand universities find it easier to pursue a master's degree in the country as these institutions favor candidates who have completed their undergraduate education in New Zealand.

Admission Procedure for MBBS Programs in New Zealand

To apply for MBBS in New Zealand, students are required to have a minimum aggregate of 75% in their 12th-grade examinations. However, the admission criteria to study in New Zealand may differ depending on the specific medical college.

Amenities Offered to Indian Students Studying MBBS in New Zealand:

• Diverse food options are available.
• The country is known for its overall safety and stability.
• The crime rate is exceptionally low.
• Indian students are permitted to work while pursuing their studies.