FAQs about applying to NZBS

TV500 Studio 2 — *Do you have questions?* *FAQs*

If you have questions about applying to study the Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications at the New Zealand Broadcasting School, you might find the answers below.

If your question is not answered here, please get in CONTACT with us.

Application

When do applications close?: For the February intake, the deadline is September 30th. However, there is flexibility. Please get in contact if you would like to apply after this date.
When should I submit my application? We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as applicants who meet the requirements for admission are accepted in the order their applications are received.
Do you set aside places for priority learners? Yes
I want to apply for more than one specialisation, what do I do? You may submit an application for more than one specialisation. If you are accepted by more than one specialisation we can help you decide which would be a better fit for you.
What supporting evidence do you suggest I bring to the kōrero? It is not a requirement that you show us any work but we invite you to do so. If you decide to show us, bring material that you are proud of and demonstrates your interest in media. Depending on your area of interest, items such as poetry, stories, radio shows, short films, photography portfolio.
What is the kōrero? Conversations are conducted either online or face-to-face and helps us understand you, so we can provide you with tailored advice on your study pathway.
If I am accepted into one specification and want to change to another, is that possible? This is not unheard of. We will work with you to see if this is a possibility for you.
When will I find out if I have been accepted? It will vary depending on your situation and if you meet the requirements. You may find out quickly or you may need to wait until NCEA results come through.
I have been accepted by another institution and I'm still waiting to hear from NZBS, what do I do? Get in contact with us so we can talk through your options.
Do you have a waitlist? Yes.
What is the likelihood of me coming off the waitlist? Each waitlisted person is equal and if a place frees up the tutors select the best fit from the waitlist pool.

Academic

What are the academic entry requirements? University Entrance.
What subjects should I be taking at school, to give me the best chance of being accepted at NZBS? English or English-rich subjects, Media studies and relevant industry experience.
I don't have my NCEA results yet, what do I do? We understand that results are released in January. You may receive a conditional offer based on passing University Entrance.
I didn't pass all my NCEA subjects, does that mean I cannot begin at NZBS? We will work with you to determine if it is possible to make up the shortfall. There are summer school options and often your school will help.
Do you take international students? Yes, there are some additional steps to take if you are an international student. Please see the International Application Form for more details.

Financial

How much does it cost? The fees information is on the application page for each specialisation. (Find those HERE)
Am I eligible for Free Fees? Please check here for more information.
Are there scholarships available? Yes, Ara has several scholarships that are available. We also highly recommend that you seek out scholarships in your own community. We also award prizes (with a cash component) to high performing students during the year.

#NZBSLife

What is the degree structure? You will complete 120 credits per year for a total of 360 credits. This includes a 6 month paid professional placement.
What does a typical day look like? Because of the nature of the programme, we expect you to be engaged with learning Monday to Friday 9am-4pm. However, we emulate the media industry, this means at times there will be early mornings and late nights, as well as high pressured situations.
What is the social life like? You will become close with your peers while on campus. Life-long friendships are often forged during this time.
Where are the placements? Most placements occur in the North Island. However, we have students on placement all over NZ.
Can I do the degree online? No. The degree is hands-on using industry-standard equipment.
Is there student accommodation? Yes, Ara has Otautahi House, which is adjacent to NZBS. Apply for 'O House' at the same time you apply for NZBS and before their 31st October deadline.
Can I come and visit the school? Yes. Please get in contact with us to arrange a visit.
Do you have any short 'taster' courses? Yes, we have a 4-day 'On-Air Workshop' that covers all specialisations. Please get in contact if you would like to know more.

Other

Why should I attend NZBS rather than places like AUT? We are world-class and have been in the business since the 1980s. We have very strong connections to the media industry and our success rate speaks for itself.
I've heard it's really hard to get accepted, is this true? It is not any harder than other institutions.
I've heard a lot of negative press about jobs in the media, is it sensible to even consider a career in media? Yes. It is disheartening that we live in a world of 'fake news' and economic turmoil, but the media is not going to go away. Media is evolving, it always has evolved and always will. We work with industry to make sure our graduates are ready no matter what!
I'm not from Christchurch, is it really cold? No, but we're a little biased. A warm jacket is a wise investment, but most people say the weather in Christchurch is lovely. Come and find out! Keep in mind that you will only be on campus for two years and then you will be off on your Placement.