Skip to main content

    International Student Information

    We offer you the chance to study in paradise and explore New Zealand.

    Whether you want to achieve academic success, improve your English language skills or learn to scuba dive and kayak in the Pacific Ocean, Mercury Bay offers it all.

    International Students become an integral part of our school community, participating in full academic, sporting and cultural programmes.

    English Language

    International Students will have their level of English assessed prior to enrolment. Course and class placement are conditional on English proficiency. This could be after school or holiday English classes at a local language school funded by the student. Entry into senior school must be at least intermediate level.

    ELA (English Language) classes will be provided, dependent on numbers, for senior students.

    Pastoral Care

    We operate excellent support systems for all our students. We have an extensive pastoral care system based around our learning coaches, deans, counsellor and our International Student Director.

    Homestays

    Quality homestay accommodation is offered within Mercury Bay for International Students. Flatting is not permitted.

    School Year

    School hours and terms for Area Schools are generally the same as for Secondary Schools.

    Year 11,12 and 13 students will finish classes before the end of Term 4 and go on Exam Study Leave. International students not taking examinations will take part in an exciting International Activities Programme. 

    Term Dates & Schedule

    Code of Practice

    Mercury Bay Area School is a signatory to the "Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students" published by the NZQA. All procedures relating to the enrolment of International Students are carried out in accordance with the Code. Copies of the Code are available on request from MBAS or from the New Zealand NZQA website

    Code of Practice

    International Student Fees

    The cost of study, programmes and living expenses at Mercury Bay Area School.

    We are fully booked for 2024, places still available for 2025. Fees for 2026 will be listed soon.

    Study & Living Fees

    International Student Experiences

    Who wouldn't want to study in our stunning environment? Mercury Bay Area School welcomes international students from around the world to participate in the life of the school and to enjoy our unique learning programmes. 

    Read what our students say

    Marine Academy

    Our students have the unique opportunity to gain dive training and internationally recognised qualifications as part of their schooling, including open, advanced and rescue diving certification.

    Find out more

    Enrolment Procedures for International Students

    1. Complete the application form.
    2. Provide the documents listed.
    3. The written statement should be a statement by the student about him/herself, his/her interests and hobbies.
    4. Upon receipt of the application, we evaluate the application and send an offer of place along with an invoice.
    5. When the invoice is paid, we send a Confirmation of Place letter and a receipt. You need these two documents to apply to the nearest New Zealand Embassy for a student visa.
    6. The visa application form is generally on the website of the Embassy. 
    7. Students are provided with a full orientation programme on arrival.
      International Student Application Form
      For more information about becoming a international student at Mercury Bay Area School, please contact the International Director.
      MBAS International Director

      MBAS HOUSE POINTS

      House points after the Year 3-8 Cross Country.

      Buffalo 1573 points

      63/100

      Tainui 1617 points

      65/100

      Mercury 1829 points

      73/100

      Matahaorua 1141 points

      46/100