Study in New Zealand
Eight universities, all in the world's top 500, a post-study work visa of up to three years, and the most relaxed pace of any destination.
Why students choose New Zealand
New Zealand is small enough that lecturers know your name and safe enough that families relax the moment you land. All eight universities rank in the world's top 500, the Post-Study Work Visa gives up to three years, and skilled graduates have a clear residence pathway. Choice is narrower than in Australia or the UK, so we match you carefully to the university that is strong in your subject.
Intakes
Main intake. Apply by October to December.
Second semester intake at all universities.
Some polytechnic and business programmes.
What international students study in New Zealand
After you graduate
Graduates of a bachelor's degree or higher get a Post-Study Work Visa of up to three years, open to any employer. Master's and PhD graduates in skilled roles score well under the Skilled Migrant Category, and partners of postgraduate students can usually get open work visas.
Post-Study Work Visa
Up to 3 years for bachelor's degrees and above; shorter for some diplomas. Apply within 3 months of your visa expiry (6 months for PhD). Work for any employer.
Part-time work
25 hours a week during term (raised from 20 in November 2025), full time in scheduled holidays. Wages of NZ$23.50 an hour adult minimum wage (2025).
Employment by sector
Construction and engineering (high), IT and software (high), Healthcare and nursing (high). Full picture.
What it costs to study in New Zealand
Living costs of NZ$1,600 to NZ$2,400 a month; immigration expects NZ$20,000 a year. Tuition of NZ$25,000 to NZ$40,000 for undergraduate and NZ$28,000 to NZ$45,000 for postgraduate study. PhD students pay domestic fees, around NZ$7,000 to NZ$9,000 a year.
| Monthly cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | NZ$800 to NZ$1,400 (Auckland highest) |
| Food and groceries | NZ$350 to NZ$500 |
| Transport | NZ$80 to NZ$150 with tertiary concession |
| Utilities and phone | NZ$120 to NZ$200 |
| Health insurance | About NZ$60 to NZ$80, compulsory |
Fees and costs are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Fee Paying Student Visa
Documents you will need
- Offer of place from an approved provider
- Evidence of fee payment or funds
- Proof of funds for living costs
- Medical and chest X-ray certificates for stays over 6 months
- Police certificate for stays over 24 months
- English test where required, IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 typical
Funding for international students in New Zealand
| Scholarship | What it offers | Who awards it |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships | Full tuition plus a stipend for PhD study. | Education New Zealand |
| Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships | Fully funded for students from eligible Pacific, Asian, African and Latin American countries. | New Zealand Government |
| University excellence scholarships | NZ$5,000 to NZ$20,000 for international students with strong results. | Universities |
New Zealand in eight facts
The University of Auckland and the University of Otago are the two largest and oldest universities.
The polytechnics return to standalone status from 2026 after a period merged as Te Pūkenga.
New Zealand is one of the least corrupt and safest countries in global indices.
The Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Learners is a legal standard every provider must meet.
Māori culture is woven into university life, from welcome ceremonies to language courses.
Most cities are within a short drive of mountains, beaches or both.
Summer runs December to February, so Christmas is a beach holiday.
PhD students pay domestic fees and their children can attend school as domestic students.
Where to study in New Zealand
Everything else about studying in New Zealand
Student visa
How to get a New Zealand student visa: fees, funds, documents and timeline
Cost of studying
What it costs to study in New Zealand: tuition, living and one-off fees
Cost of living
Monthly cost of living for students in New Zealand
Scholarships
Scholarships for international students in New Zealand
Work after graduation
Working in New Zealand during and after your degree
Education system
How the New Zealand education system works
Student life
Student life in New Zealand: housing, work, weather and culture
Best student cities
Best cities to study in New Zealand
Exams required
Which exams you need to study in New Zealand
Master's degrees
Studying a master's in New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand: what students ask
How long can I stay in New Zealand after studying?
Up to three years on the Post-Study Work Visa if you complete a bachelor's degree or higher. Some lower-level qualifications qualify for shorter periods only if they are on the Green List.
How much money must I show for a New Zealand student visa?
NZ$20,000 a year for living expenses (NZ$1,667 a month for shorter periods) plus evidence that tuition is paid or funds to pay it.
Are New Zealand degrees recognised internationally?
Yes. All eight universities sit in the QS top 500 and qualifications are recognised across the Commonwealth, the US and Europe.
Ready to plan New Zealand?
A counsellor who knows this country's rules builds you a shortlist and a timeline. Free.