Study in New Zealand

Education system in New Zealand

Tertiary education in New Zealand is provided by:

• Universities
• Institutes of technology and polytechnics
• Private training establishments
• Industry training organisations

There are eight universities in New Zealand that are governed by the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. The universities are located in various parts of the country including in main cities such as Auckland and Wellington. The programmes on offer and the cost of fees vary across the different schools. However, no matter where you study, you’ll be getting a high-quality education.

New Zealand universities have an academic year that runs from February to November, with the semesters split during June and July.

Cost of studying in New Zealand

One of the advantages of studying in New Zealand is value for money. While tuition fees differ across institutions, they are comparatively affordable.

Tuition Fees in New Zealand start at NZD 19,000 per academic year and accommodation starts at around NZD 190 per month to rent a room. It’s important to note that tuition and accommodation fees will depend on your location, and your university and course choice may further impact your tuition fees.

The cost of living is somewhat high, so you need to take this into account when you make the choice to study abroad. Immigration New Zealand’s requirement for students is NSD 15,000 per year plus return airfare or additional NZD 2,000.

Student visas for New Zealand

To be able to apply for a New Zealand student visa, you will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself while you’re living and studying in the country. This includes things such as your living expenses, education costs and travel costs for the duration of your stay.

You may also need the following documents:

• An offer letter from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) that is provided to international students.
• Students under 18 will need a Guarantee of Stay from the institution or a person that states that you will have suitable accommodation to live in while in New Zealand.

A tuberculosis screening is required for students who are staying in New Zealand for more than six months. If you are staying for more than 12 months you may be required to provide medical and X-ray certificates.

Health insurance

International students will need to purchase health insurance in New Zealand as they are not covered under the national healthcare system. Although it is not required to show proof of health insurance as part of your visa application, you will need to declare that you will purchase coverage.

Working in New Zealand (as a student)

As an international student, you can work up to 20 hours a week if you're studying full time and:

• your course is at least 2 years long, or
• you're studying for a qualification that gives you points towards an application for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.

During holidays and between semester breaks you are allowed to work full-time. Masters and PhD students have no restrictions on the amount of hours they’re allowed to work.

Post-study opportunities in New Zealand

If you have acceptable qualifications that you completed in New Zealand, you can apply for a post-study work visa. Depending on your qualification and where you studied, you can work for any employer for between one and three years, and do almost any work.