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Year 1 Entry Requirements for School Leavers

Thinking about studying chiropractic straight from school? This page outlines the academic requirements for Year 1 entry at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic, including NCEA, UE, Rank Score, and international equivalents - plus how we can help you check your eligibility.

If you’re finishing high school and considering a future in chiropractic, this guide helps you understand exactly what’s needed for Year 1 entry, so you can quickly see whether you meet the requirements to begin your chiropractic studies with us.

The essentials (non-negotiable)

For New Zealand high school students, entry into Year 1 requires:

  • NCEA Level 3 with a minimum Rank Score of 200
    • Calculated from Level 3 approved subjects only. Achievement standards count towards your Rank Score, unit standards do not.

And

  • University Entrance (UE) – explained below

Or either of the following:

  • International Baccalaureate – minimum overall grade of 32
  • Cambridge – 3 A-level subjects with minimum grades of B, B & C

International students: We can advise the NZ equivalency of your qualifications.

What is University Entrance (UE)?

University Entrance is the NZ benchmark for bachelor-level study. You’ll need:

  • NCEA Level 3 certificate in at least 3 UE-approved subjects
    • Minimum 14 credits at Level 3 in each subject
  • UE Literacy – 10 credits including 5 in reading & 5 in writing at Level 2 or higher
  • UE Numeracy – 10 credits at Level 1 or higher

Not sure if you meet UE? We’re happy to check.

Rank Score explained

Your Rank Score is based on your best 80 Level 3 credits in approved subjects. Credits from Level 2 or below do not count.

Points per credit:

  • Excellence = 4 points
  • Merit = 3 points
  • Achieved = 2 points

Example calculation:

If your top 80 Level 3 credits include 40 Achieved and 40 Merit credits:

  • 40 Achieved × 2 = 80 points
  • 40 Merit × 3 = 120 points

Total Rank Score = 200 points

Subjects – what should I take?

No subjects are compulsory for entry. Helpful preparation includes:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Health
  • Physical Education

Although a basic science foundation will prepare you well, your passion for a hands-on, health-focused career that truly helps people matters too.

Need help?

We’re happy to:

  • Check your UE
  • Calculate your Rank Score – use our online calculator
  • Talk through your pathway into chiropractic

Reach out to our Admissions team – we’re here to help!