A full-time course is generally between 54 and 72 points in any one semester or 108 and 144 points in any one year. Each paper has a points value where one point generally represents 10 hours of work for an average student.
As a guide, based on an 18-point paper, this usually works out to a minimum of 14 hours work per paper per week. Work is made up of formal contact time (lectures, tutorials, laboratories, etc) and independent study (studying, revision, assignments, reading, etc).
Most students take 108 to 126 points per year. Very able students may take up to 144 points annually with the load spread as evenly as possible between both semesters.
Part-time study is considered as taking fewer than 54 points in any one semester or 108 points in any one year. Part-time students may not be eligible to receive student allowances, and take longer to complete degrees.
If you have a disability that restricts your working capacity, you should contact Disability Information and Support for advice and assistance.
Maximum workloads
Enrolment Period | Points to be full-time* | Maximum points permitted |
Summer School | 18 points | 36 points – requires additional approval |
Across Semester one and Semester two | 108 points | 162 points – requires additional approval |
Pre-Christmas Summer School | 18 points | 18 points |
*International students must consult with International Student Support to confirm their full-time status.
Seeking approval to study the maximum points permitted
We do not recommend students enrol in the maximum points. This is a heavy workload. If you do plan to study 36 points at Summer School or 90 points in Semester one or two you will need to apply to have this heavy workload approved.
Your ability to take on extra study will be considered based on your past academic performance (results and associated workloads) and any additional information you provide.
A heavy workload will not be considered for students:
- Who have not successfully passed four papers in one semester
- Want to catch up for points missed by failing a paper
- Want to take papers additional to their degree requirements
- Are in their first year of study at Ōtakou whakaihu waka
Applying for a heavy workload
If you believe that you have a compelling case to enrol in a heavy workload, we recommend you speak with a Senior Student Adviser in Student Development. They will talk you through eligibility and the process of applying for a heavy workload.
Once you’ve spoken with an Adviser, and you’ve decided you wish to continue with a heavy workload you’ll need to formally apply.
To do this
- select your papers in eVision and submit for approval
- you will be sent a heavy workload request form to complete via eVision
- complete the form and return via your eVision portal.
Your request will be assessed by Student Development, and you will be notified of your outcome via eVision.
Guide to enrolment
Helping you through the enrolment process