Visa implications when changing the programme of study

Before deciding to change your programme, keep in mind the following:

Plan ahead. Programme changes should be planned for a future semester or quarter.

You should allow sufficient time for both the admission process and any visa application that may be required before your intended programme start date.

• Immigration New Zealand: Student visa wait times
• University of Auckland: Important dates

Do not assume you can change your programme after the semester/quarter has commenced.

Immigration New Zealand visa processing times vary. If your visa has not been
approved before teaching begins, you may not be able to commence your new
programme in the intended semester or quarter and you may miss important enrolment deadlines.

When to enrol and changing your enrolment

Your student visa must allow you to study your intended programme.

Your student visa usually states the programme that you are allowed to study. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to obtain a new student visa or other immigration permission before commencing your new programme.

Changing your programme may affect your future immigration pathways, including eligibility for a Post-Study Work Visa.

For further information, please refer to Immigration New Zealand. 

Discuss your options before making any changes.

Visit your nearest Student Hub for advice on your academic options and the University's processes before submitting a new programme application. It is vital to discuss these before making any changes.

Once you have decided to change your programme, follow these steps:

Step 1: Apply for your new programme for the next semester or quarter

Submit an application for admission to your new programme. Please refer to the How to apply for admission guide.

Step 2: Accept your Offer of Place

An Offer of Place is generally required to support a student visa application.

Step 3: Apply for your visa

Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to apply for a new student visa or a Variation of Conditions before commencing your new programme.

Check or change your student visa conditions: Immigration New Zealand

Step 4: Wait for Immigration New Zealand's decision

Do not commence your new programme until you hold the appropriate immigration permission for that programme.

Step 5: Supply evidence of your visa

Once your visa has been granted, provide a copy of your visa to the University through the Supply evidence of your visa page so your student record can be updated.

Step 6: Commence your new programme

You may only commence your new programme after you hold the appropriate student visa or a variation of the condition.
You are able to commence your programme within the University's add/drop enrolment deadline for that semester or quarter.
If your immigration permission is not granted before the relevant enrolment deadline, you may not be able to commence your new programme in the intended semester or quarter.