International Information & Resources

We warmly welcome applications across all year levels for entry at the beginning of Terms 1, 2, and 3. However, due to national NCEA senior examinations and study leave occurring at the end of the year, Term 4 entry is strictly limited to Years 7–9 (Junior School). Senior students (Years 10–13) are only accepted in Term 4 if they are enrolling specifically for our specialised 3-week end-of-year EOTC (Education Outside of the Classroom) programme and are not sitting formal exams.

To ensure our international students have adequate time to settle into Kiwi life, build meaningful friendships, and benefit academically, our minimum individual enrolment period is 4 weeks. For group study tours or custom school cohorts, please contact our team directly at international@cathcollege.school.nz to discuss tailored options.

No. While our school culture is deeply rooted in our Catholic Special Character and universal values of hospitality and mutual respect, we warmly welcome international students of all faiths, backgrounds, and cultures.

Student wellbeing is our absolute priority. We are a proud signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021  meaning we have a dedicated support network looking after you. You will be paired with a local student "buddy" from day one, and you will have direct, daily access to our Director of International Students, and our professional on-site Guidance Counsellor.

Because of our central city location, Catholic Cathedral College is incredibly well-connected to the Christchurch public transport network. Most of our international students walk to school if their homestay is nearby, or they take a short, direct trip on the local bus network. During your orientation week, our team will help you get a Metrocard (the local bus smartcard) and show you exactly which bus route to take from your host family's home.

Yes. Catholic Cathedral College operates a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. We recommend a lightweight, reliable laptop or Chromebook with a good battery life that can connect to our campus Wi-Fi network. Your device will be used daily for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and staying in touch with your teachers through our digital learning platforms.

We strongly advise against carrying large amounts of cash. During your first week, our International Student team will assist you in visiting a local central bank to set up a secure New Zealand bank account and debit card. This allows your parents to transfer funds safely from home, and gives you an easy way to pay for everyday items, bus fares, and school activities.

Absolutely. While there are a few core foundational subjects depending on your year level (such as English language support and Mathematics), we offer a wide range of exciting options. Students can choose from subjects across the Visual and Performing Arts, Sciences, Technology, and Humanities. Our International team will sit down with you on your first day to review your personal goals and help you select a customised timetable that matches your interests and future pathways.

New Zealand has a 2-week break between Terms 1, 2, and 3. During these holidays, most international students remain with their warm and welcoming host families, relaxing and exploring the Canterbury region. If you wish to travel within New Zealand during the holidays, you must submit a formal travel request form to the school for approval, as your safety and welfare remain our legal responsibility under the Code of Practice.