Programme overview
Important notice
Applications for the BBiomedSc are temporarily paused while updated programme information is being published. Applications will reopen on 22 May. Please check back then to apply.
You'll gain a strong and practical grounding in biomedical science through integrated case-based learning that shows how molecular and cellular discoveries become real medical advances. With hands-on learning across key areas of human biology, you'll build adaptable skills that prepare you for careers in research, biotech, diagnostics, health tech, communication and policy, as well as pathways to further study.
The BBiomedSc provides a Year 1 entry pathway into Year 2 clinical programmes, in Medical Imaging, Medicine, Optometry, and Pharmacy, giving you the opportunity to work towards professional clinical health careers.
Programme structure
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science is a three-year degree (360 points).You will be doing a range of core courses across Stages I, II and III which are aimed at developing your biomedical knowledge and professional skills throughout the degree.
The programme also has space for you to select elective courses from a wide range of options.
For detailed information about a specific programme, including its courses and regulations, visit the Curriculum Catalogue. For the general university requirements for admission, enrolment and fees, visit the University Calendar.
Most students need to take one General Education course.
Students should also be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement.
2026 entry requirements
My highest qualification is from:
Secondary school qualifications
If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.
You are guaranteed entry to this programme if you meet these requirements.
- First, you must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard.
- You must also meet the rank score for this programme. Not sure about your rank score? Use our rank score calculator.
- You may need to have studied certain subjects or achieved credits in particular subjects.
- Some programmes have additional requirements, such as an interview, portfolio or references.
Guaranteed rank score, subject and other requirements
If your rank score is slightly lower than the guaranteed score, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be able to apply under our Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.
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QualificationNCEA National Certificate of Educational AchievementScore required200
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QualificationCIE Cambridge International ExaminationsScore required200
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QualificationIB International BaccalaureateScore required28
Read more about entry requirements for New Zealand secondary school applicants.
Tertiary qualifications
If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.
You can transfer from another tertiary institution, or another University of Auckland qualification, if you meet these requirements.
Minimum grade requirements
These are the minimum grades required for consideration for entry to this programme but they do not guarantee entry.
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Grade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 3.5
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Grade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 3.5
Further requirements
You must have a minimum of one semester (usually 6 months) of full-time study in an undergraduate degree programme from a recognised university (or similar institution), with a minimum GPA or GPE of 3.5 or higher, either across your last semester of full-time study, or across your entire degree so far.
Transfer of Credit - You can apply for transfer of credit for tertiary courses completed elsewhere as part of your application to the University of Auckland. For more information, please see External transfer of credit.
If you have completed study at another New Zealand University, get an estimate of the transfer credit you may be eligible for, using our Transfer Credit Calculator.
Other pathways to study
You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:
- See if you meet the criteria for the Undergraduate Targeted Admission Scheme (UTAS).
- Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme.
- If you are under 20, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for discretionary entrance.
- If you can demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and maturity, we offer admission to applicants under 16.
2027
- See if you meet the criteria for the Undergraduate Targeted Admission Scheme (UTAS).
- Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme.
- You can gain entry to the BBiomedSc if you complete the Certificate of Health Sciences with a GPA of 4.5 or higher.
- You can gain entry to the BBiomedSc if you complete the Tertiary Foundation Certificate with a GPA of 35.5 or higher.
My highest qualification is from this country or region:
Secondary school qualifications
If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.
You need to have one of the following:
- International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24.
- General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects.
- Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.
GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA and Pearson Education Limited taken outside of New Zealand.
Guaranteed grade, subject and other requirements
These are the grades required for guaranteed entry to this programme. If your grades are slightly lower, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available.
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QualificationIB International Baccalaureate DiplomaScore required28QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
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QualificationGCE A Level/CIE General Certificate of Education Advanced LevelScore required200
You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects.
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
Further requirements
Minimum grade, subject and other requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place. Your CIE/GCE A level score is calculated on the best three academic subjects and General Studies cannot be included.
Tertiary qualifications
If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.
You can transfer from another tertiary institution if you meet these requirements.
You need to have the following:
One year successful bachelor-degree level study at a recognised university (or similar institution) overseas.
Minimum grade requirements
These are the likely grades required, but they do not guarantee entry. Applicants may require higher grades to gain entry to this programme.
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Grade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 3.5
-
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
Other pathways to study
You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:
- Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme.
- If you have an offer of place from us that is conditional on meeting English language requirements, you may be considered for English Pathway courses from the University of Auckland English Language Academy (ELA)
How much does a Bachelor of Biomedical Science cost per year?
2026 fees
- Domestic students
- NZ$7,616.40 – $10,158*
Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $9.44 per point, estimated at $1,132.80 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.
*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.
Find out about financial support information
Scholarships and awards
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.
Student loans and allowances
Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.
Cost of living
Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.
Key dates
Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
Start dates
Here are the start dates for the programme.
| Semester One | Starts – 2 March |
|---|---|
| Ends – 29 June |
| Semester One | Starts – 1 March |
|---|---|
| Ends – 28 June |
Other important dates
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
How to apply
Applying for an undergraduate programme? Check out our step-by-step guide.
Where could this programme take you?
The BBiomedSc opens doors to careers in research, biotechnology, diagnostics, health technology, science communication, and policy, as well as being a pathway to entry into clinical programmes. With strong transferable skills at its core, the degree empowers graduates to thrive and adapt in a fast‑evolving biomedical landscape.
Jobs related to this programme
- Biomedical researcher
- Laboratory scientist
- Biotechnology specialist
- Pharmaceutical industry professional
- Clinical trials coordinator
- Diagnostic scientist
- Regulatory affairs officer
- Science communicator and policy advisor
Student career planning service
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
Do you need help?
Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?
Need to speak to someone?
You can phone us directly.
- Auckland:
- (09) 923 5025
- Outside Auckland:
- 0800 61 62 63
- International:
- +64 9 373 7513