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With postcard-worthy landscapes, picturesque towns and world-class education institutions, New Zealand is a special study destination for students with IELTS scores. 

If you’re planning to head to this beautiful country to further your studies, you might be looking for which universities stand out. 

From a tech-focused university with state-of-the-art facilities or the chance to pursue an agricultural degree and tap into the country’s vast land space, there are some interesting New Zealand institutes that might catch your eye. 

This list will show you what IELTS scores you need to get into some of New Zealand’s most unique universities! 

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5 unique New Zealand universities to discover

1. The University of Otago 

With Scottish-influenced architecture, The University of Otago’s Dunedin campus is known as one of the most beautiful campuses in the world, with beaches, wildlife, a forested hill and a natural harbour right at its doorstep. 

It is New Zealand’s oldest university and has a history dating as far back as 1869. Fast forward to today, it now has campuses in the North and South Islands in addition to its Dunedin one. 

The University of Otago is also ranked among the top 1% of universities around the world and has built a reputation for offering strong research and teaching. 

Required IELTS score: 6.0 overall 

The University of Otago

2. Auckland University of Technology 

If you’re looking to pursue your studies in tech, look no further than the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). 

As its name suggests, AUT is a tech-focused university fuelled by innovation. 

It has three modern campuses that are fully equipped with world-class facilities including the state-of-the-art Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences building, which features spaces that turn it into a ‘living lab’, where students can get hands-on experience. 

Besides that, AUT is ranked one of the world’s best modern universities and among the top 40 universities under 50 years old around the world. 

Required IELTS score: 6.5 overall 

Auckland University of Technology

3. Lincoln University 

Do you have an interest in agriculture and the environment? 

If so, Lincoln University could potentially be an ideal place for you to pursue your degree. It focuses on agricultural degrees and capitalises on New Zealand’s vast land space, offering a unique experience for those who choose to pursue it. 

Based in the region South of Christchurch, Lincoln University is ranked the 17th best small university in the world and has been educating students for 144 years. 

With lots of exciting activities – from white water rafting to bungee jumping – around campus, there’s never a dull moment here. 

Required IELTS score: 6.0 overall 

Lincoln University

4. Victoria University of Wellington 

Based in the vibrant city of Wellington, the Victoria University of Wellington is ranked in the top 2% of the world’s universities and is the top university in New Zealand for the intensity of high-quality research. 

As it has strong connections to leading national organisations, various industries and the government, students seeking internships or work opportunities have a better chance of securing a good spot. 

Its multicultural campus is located near galleries, museums, beaches, nature trails and also exciting events, so you can explore during the weekends. 

Required IELTS score: 6.5 overall 

Victoria University of Wellington

5. University of Canterbury 

Located at the heart of Christchurch, the University of Canterbury enables you to experience university life in the centre of the bustling city while being close to nature and the coast. 

If you want to experience the perfect mix of urban living before catching the waves during surf breaks down the beach, this might just be the perfect university for you. Who says you can’t mix study with play! 

With a community made up of over 100 nationalities, you can expect an inclusive, international experience that exposes you to people from different cultures and backgrounds. 

Required IELTS score: 7.0 overall 

University of Canterbury

Successfully study in New Zealand with IDP 

With this unique range of universities to choose from, it’s exciting how vast the opportunities you can unlock in New Zealand with your IELTS score are. 

If you’re planning to head there, we’re happy to help! 

At IDP, we have a team of qualified education counsellors who can offer tailored guidance on how you can ace your IELTS test and study in the university of your dreams. 

When you’re ready, take the first step by acing the IELTS test. From our convenient test locations to free test preparation materials to support you, here’s why you should take your IELTS test with us

Book your IELTS test today to get started!