Quality-assured education
Qualifications sit on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework, so levels, learning outcomes, and progression pathways are clear.
Study destination · New Zealand
Study in New Zealand.
Quality assured.
Build an internationally focused education journey through quality-assured qualifications, practical learning, and diverse study options.
8 universitiesplus institutes, vocational providers and private colleges
Feb & Julythe main intakes, with extra start dates at some providers
25 hourspossible weekly work limit for eligible students*
Up to 3 yearspossible post-study work visa for eligible graduates*
Why New Zealand
Quality-assured.
Practically taught.
New Zealand offers international students a high-quality, globally recognised education system, practical learning opportunities, and a welcoming study environment. Choose from universities, institutes of technology, vocational providers, private training establishments, and English-language schools across major cities and regional centres.
Practical, career-focused
Many programmes build in projects, laboratory and research work, industry engagement, internships, and work-integrated learning.
Support that is required
Providers must meet the Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners Code of Practice, so student support is a condition of enrolment.
Your New Zealand journey
Clear steps.
One trusted team.
Discuss your goals
Talk through your academic background, English level, interests, budget, preferred location, and intake.
Compare and apply
Shortlist suitable courses and approved providers, confirm academic and English requirements, then prepare your application.
Offer and visa
Review your offer of place and its conditions carefully, then prepare the financial, health, identity, and travel evidence your student visa needs.
Arrive and connect
Arrange accommodation, insurance, and travel — then stay connected through Grace International's Auckland office after you land.
Education system
Every level,
a clear pathway.
New Zealand offers study pathways from English and foundation programmes through to bachelor’s, postgraduate, master’s and doctoral study. The right pathway depends on your academic background, English proficiency, budget, interests, and future goals.
| Study pathway | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| English & foundation | Build English and academic skills before progressing to further study. |
| Certificates & diplomas | Practical and career-focused qualifications that may also provide pathways to higher-level study. |
| Bachelor’s degrees | Undergraduate programmes that develop knowledge and skills in a chosen field. |
| Graduate & postgraduate | Advanced qualifications for students looking to specialise, change direction or continue their studies. |
| Master’s degrees | Higher-level study through coursework, research or a combination of both. |
| Doctoral / PhD | Advanced research-focused study at the highest qualification level. |
Universities & providers
Eight universities.
Many more providers.
In addition to its eight universities, New Zealand has institutes of technology, vocational education providers, private training establishments, specialist colleges and English-language schools. Before applying, verify that the institution and qualification are approved and that the provider is authorised to enrol international students.
01University of Auckland
02Auckland University of Technology
03University of Waikato
04Massey University
05Victoria University of Wellington
06University of Canterbury
07Lincoln University
08University of Otago
Quality assurance and qualification recognition sit with the relevant national education authorities under the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework — see NZQA.
Choose the
right fit.
The best institution depends on your academic background, interests, budget, career goals and future plans — not just a familiar name.
What to compare
- Course content, available majors and qualification level.
- Entry and English-language requirements.
- Tuition fees and additional course expenses.
- Campus location, accommodation and living costs.
- Intakes and application deadlines.
- Progression opportunities and professional accreditation.
- Internships, placements and industry-related learning.
- International-student support and scholarship eligibility.
- Graduate outcomes and post-study work eligibility.
Study acrossNew Zealand
Where to study
Find your
New Zealand pace.
Study opportunities run across major cities and regional centres, each with a different student environment, cost profile, and industry focus.
Intakes
Two major starts.
One clear calendar.
01
February
The main intake, usually offering the widest range of programmes.
02
July
Another major intake, with many courses available across institutions.
03
Additional starts
Some providers offer extra start dates throughout the year, depending on the course and campus.
Begin preparing several months in advance. Application, scholarship and deposit deadlines may all differ, and popular programmes can close when places are filled.
Admission requirements
What most programmes
will ask for.
Entry requirements vary by institution, programme, study level and your previous education. You may be asked to provide:
Valid passport.
Academic certificates and transcripts.
English-language proficiency evidence.
Statement of Purpose or personal statement.
CV and work experience, where applicable.
References, portfolio, or research proposal for selected programmes.
English-language evidence
Institutions may accept IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT, or other approved evidence. Required scores vary by programme, so always check the specific course requirements. Some programmes — including nursing, teaching, healthcare and other regulated fields — may have additional academic, professional, or placement requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Fees & budget
Cost of studying
in New Zealand.
Tuition fees depend on the institution, qualification, subject, programme duration and location. The ranges below are broad planning estimates — not quotations or guarantees — and should be reviewed at least annually.
| Study level | Indicative tuition | Important information |
|---|---|---|
| English-language programme | Usually charged per week | Duration and packaged-study arrangements affect the total cost. |
| Certificate or diploma | Approximately NZD 18,000–28,000 per year | Fees vary by level, subject and provider. |
| Bachelor’s degree | Approximately NZD 22,000–40,000 per year | Clinical, laboratory and specialist programmes may cost more. |
| Postgraduate coursework | Approximately NZD 26,000–45,000 or more per year | Programme length and discipline affect the total. |
| Doctoral degree | Varies by university | Eligible international PhD students may receive domestic-equivalent tuition fees under university rules. |
Medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, aviation and certain professional or laboratory-based programmes may cost considerably more. Always use the institution’s current official fee schedule and your formal offer when making financial decisions.
Also budget for
Application or enrolment fees, medical and travel insurance, textbooks and course materials, computer or specialist equipment, laboratory or placement expenses, accommodation, food, transport, electricity and internet, student visa fees, medical examinations, police certificates and air travel.
Living costs & proof of funds
Proof you can
fund the year.
Living expenses differ according to the city, accommodation type and personal lifestyle. Auckland and other major centres can cost more than smaller cities.
This is a visa-related financial minimum. It does not guarantee that the amount will cover every student’s actual living expenses.
Financial evidence for a Fee Paying Student Visa
NZD 20,000
per year of study · or NZD 1,667 per month if the programme is shorter than one year
Applicants also need evidence covering tuition fees and outward travel. Prepare a realistic personal budget and do not depend on part-time employment to pay tuition fees or essential living expenses.
Immigration New ZealandIndicative living-cost examples
| Shared-room accommodation | from approximately NZD 140 per week |
| Catered halls of residence | up to approximately NZD 484 per week |
| Basic groceries | approximately NZD 80–120 per week |
| Electricity (private house, usually shared) | approximately NZD 200–300 per month |
| Public transport | up to approximately NZD 37 per week |
| Mobile plans | from approximately NZD 19 per month |
| Unlimited internet (shared flat) | approximately NZD 90 per month |
Financial requirements and living-cost examples can change. Verify them immediately before publishing and review them at least every three months.
Scholarships & funding
Published awards,
real deadlines.
International students may be eligible for scholarships offered by universities, institutes and other education providers. Depending on the institution and programme, awards can range from around NZD 7,000 to NZD 15,000 or more.
01
Academic performance
Awards based on past academic results.
02
Course or faculty
Funding tied to a specific course or faculty.
03
Research
Support for research students and projects.
04
Nationality
Awards open to students from particular countries.
05
Leadership
Recognising demonstrated leadership and community involvement.
06
Other eligibility
Value, eligibility and deadlines vary by institution.
Check whether an award needs a separate application, whether it is renewable and what it covers. Admission does not automatically include a scholarship, and scholarship decisions are made by the awarding institution or organisation.
Student visa
The visa that
makes it real.
International students generally need a valid student visa and an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider. Applications are decided by Immigration New Zealand — approval is not guaranteed.
Duration
Up to 4 years
Fee Paying Student Visa.
Application fee
From NZD 850
Check the current fee schedule.
Timing
~3 months
Apply around 3 months before travel.
Offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider.
Valid passport.
Tuition and living-fund evidence.
Sponsor or financial documents, where applicable.
Medical and travel insurance.
Health or police documents, where required.
Evidence of onward travel.
Other documents requested by Immigration New Zealand.
No guaranteed outcomes
An offer of place or paid deposit does not guarantee visa approval. Every application is considered individually by Immigration New Zealand.
Work while you study
Work rules,
clearly explained.
Eligible international students may be allowed to work while studying, depending on their visa conditions. Always follow the conditions stated on your eVisa or visa letter.
Part-time while studying
25hours / week
with full-time work allowed during eligible scheduled breaks.
Research Master’s & PhD
No
limit
Students enrolled full-time in an eligible research programme may have no limit on work hours while continuing their studies.
Minimum wage & realities
The adult minimum wage is currently NZD 23.95 per hour before tax from 1 April 2026. Employment is not guaranteed, and students must always follow the conditions stated on their visa.
Student life
A place to
settle in.
01
Halls of residence
Campus-adjacent halls with meals, utilities and support often included.
02
Homestays
Live with a host family — commonly includes meals and local guidance.
03
Shared apartments or houses
A common student option with separate rent and bills.
04
Private rentals
Independent leasing with responsibilities and fixed-term conditions.
Before confirming accommodation, compare the cost, distance from campus, transport, facilities and agreement conditions — including deposits, cancellation terms and what is covered by the rent.
After graduation
Post-study work,
on the right terms.
Eligible graduates may be able to apply for a Post Study Work Visa and stay to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on their qualification and study duration.
01
Study duration
Degree-level 7 or higher qualifications generally require at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand.
02
Non-degree conditions
Eligible non-degree qualifications have additional conditions, including work related to the field of study.
03
Master’s & doctoral
Eligible Master’s and Doctoral graduates may receive up to 3 years.
04
Changes from 16 November 2026
Eligibility will expand for certain Level 7 Graduate Diploma holders, and a new Short-term Graduate Work Visa will offer eligible graduates up to 6 months of open work rights.
Responsibly framed
Completing a New Zealand qualification does not guarantee employment, residence or another visa. Check the exact qualification requirements on the official Post Study Work Visa page.
Grace support
How Grace International
can support you.
Grace International supports students throughout their New Zealand study journey. Admission, scholarship and visa decisions are made by the relevant institutions and authorities — the student remains responsible for truthful information and genuine documents.
Course and institution selection.
Application support.
Scholarship guidance.
Student visa documentation guidance.
IELTS and PTE preparation.
Pre-departure support.
Connection to Grace International Auckland.
Grace International Auckland
Established in Auckland in August 2024, Grace gives students a local point of contact in New Zealand. Our team can help you connect with available support and services after arrival.
Suite 202, 87–93 Queen Street · Dingwall Building · Auckland, New Zealand
FAQs
Questions students
actually ask.
Quick answers to the questions we are asked most about studying in New Zealand.
What are the main intakes in New Zealand?
February and July are the main intakes. Selected institutions and programmes may also offer additional start dates.
How much does it cost to study in New Zealand?
Tuition fees vary by institution, programme and study level. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transport, insurance, visa costs and travel.
How much money do I need for a New Zealand student visa?
For tertiary and other non-compulsory study, students generally need to show NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses, or NZD 1,667 per month for study shorter than one year, in addition to tuition and travel funding.
Can international students work while studying?
Eligible students may be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week while studying and full-time during eligible scheduled breaks, depending on their visa conditions.
Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. Scholarships may be available through universities and other education providers. Eligibility, value and deadlines vary by scholarship.
Is IELTS required to study in New Zealand?
Not in every case. Accepted English tests and required scores depend on the institution and programme.
Can I apply with a study gap?
Yes, depending on the institution and your circumstances. Your academic history, work experience, reason for the gap and selected programme may be considered.
Can I stay and work in New Zealand after graduation?
Eligible graduates may qualify for post-study work rights, depending on the qualification completed and the immigration rules at the time of application.
Does studying in New Zealand guarantee permanent residence?
No. Studying in New Zealand does not guarantee employment, a work visa or permanent residence.
Official resources
Fees, financial-evidence amounts and visa rules change — verify the current official requirements with Immigration New Zealand and your chosen provider before applying.
Start your New Zealand journey
Ready to explore
New Zealand?
Speak with a Grace International counsellor about study options that match your academic profile, interests, goals, and budget — with a Grace presence in Auckland after you arrive.
Book free counselling