If you want to study medicine in New Zealand, you have to meet certain requirements. The qualifications required vary from one medical school to another.
Before applying to a medical school, you should have at least a two-year bachelor’s degree in a science subject. You will also need to have a high-level of English proficiency. This is usually reflected in an IELTS score of 7.0 or higher.
There are a number of scholarships available for international students. For example, the Mirror on Society pathway is open to refugees and applicants with socioeconomic problems. In addition, the University of Otago offers scholarships for MB ChB / PhD students.
A typical six-year New Zealand medical course is challenging and rewarding. In the first year, you will be immersed in a variety of clinical experiences. In the second and third years, you will learn about general and specialized medicine. The fourth and fifth years involve more practical and hands-on work. These years involve clinical placements in hospitals, public health facilities and smaller rural practices.
During the sixth and final year of the MBBS programme, you will become a trainee intern. In this position, you will be placed in a hospital for an extended period of time. Depending on the hospital, you will rotate between specialties, and will be given a modest tax-free stipend.
Once you have completed your degree, you will be registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand. Registration allows you to practice medicine in NZ.