UCIC Headstart

How it works

The UCIC Headstart pathway allows you to start your first semester of study (60 points) in October, instead of having to wait until February (S1) to start your studies. This means you can finish your degree at the same time as if you started at UC in July (S2), and enables you to finish your bachelor's degree almost six months earlier than if you start the following February (S1).

BCom Headstart courses are taught by UCIC on the UC campus. The remainder of your BCom courses (from February the following year onwards) are taught by UC. 

Who is eligible

This pathway is available to international students with University Entrance, or those who have already received an unconditional offer of place for the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) at UC. 

Which courses you will take

You will enrol in the V3 occurrence for the following courses:

MGMT100 Fundamentals of Management

STAT101 Statistics 1

ACCT102 Accounting and Financial Information

INFO123 Business Information Systems and Technology

How much it will cost

2025 tuition fee estimate: $19,102
2025 Student Services Levy (SSL) estimate: $583.20
2025 Studentsafe insurance estimate: $427.50
ESTIMATED TOTAL: $20,112.70

How to apply

Talk to one of our registered agents in your country or apply directly in myUC for the Bachelor of Commerce, choosing the 'UCIC Headstart' study option in your application. 

FAQs

What if I fail one or more of my Headstart courses?

You will be able to repeat or take alternative courses in S1 the following year. As you will not receive credit for failed courses, the length of time taken to complete a BCom will be longer.

What if I don’t get admission?

If you do not meet the requirements for admission to the BCom at UC, you will be directed to consider completing a Diploma in University Studies in October instead.  The Diploma in University Studies is a full year of study (120 points) taught by UCIC on the UC campus, and successful completion allows you to transfer to the second year of a bachelor's degree at UC. 

Can I live on the UC campus?

We can help you to apply to stay in one of UC’s halls of residence. Contact admissions@ucic.ac.nz

Can I get a Pathway Visa?

We recommend that you apply to Immigration New Zealand for a Pathway Student Visa, which will allow you to secure your right to study up to three consecutive qualifications via a single application. Let us know when you are applying for your visa so that we can provide you with a supporting letter.