Study in New Zealand

Discover your potential and build your future at the New Zealand’s premier universities

New Zealand Study Abroad 2025

New Zealand is renowned for its high-quality, English-medium education system, featuring eight world-class universities and a strong vocational sector through Te Pūkenga’s 16 institutes of technology and polytechnics. With its safe, welcoming communities and innovative research environment, New Zealand offers an exceptional study abroad experience.

The New Zealand Education System

Universities

8 Institutions

New Zealand’s eight universities provide a broad range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, emphasizing academic excellence and cutting-edge research.

• 3-4 year Bachelor’s programs
• 1-2 year Master’s programs
• 3-5 year Doctoral programs

Institutes of Technology & Polytechnics

16 Institutions

Te Pūkenga’s network of 16 institutes delivers practice-oriented vocational education with strong industry connections and apprenticeship pathways.

• Industry partnerships
• Hands-on applied learning
• Work-integrated curricula

Degree Programs in English

All degree programs in New Zealand are offered in English, providing a seamless academic experience for international students without additional language requirements.

Bachelor's

1000+

programs

Master's

800+

programs

PhD

300+

programs

Short Courses

200+

programs

100%+

English-taught

Programs

International Student Statistics

New Zealand welcomed 69,135 international student enrolments in 2023, a 67% increase over 2022 and restoring enrolments to 60% of pre-pandemic levels.

In the first eight months of 2023, international student enrolments totalled 59,306, with universities enrolling 27,535 (46%), schools 12,662 (21%), Te Pūkenga 6,560 (11%), PTEs 5,671 (10%), and English Language Schools 7,001 (12%).

Top Source Countries

China
36%
India
10%
Japan
10%
South Korea
5%
Thailand
4%

Fields of Study Distribution

Management & Commerce27.9%

Society & Culture17.2%

Information Technology12.2%

Natural & Physical Sciences11.9%

Engineering & Related Technologies8.8%

International Students by Subsector

46%

Universities

27,535 students

21%

Schools

12,662 students

11%

Te Pūkenga

6,560 students

10%

PTEs

5,671 students

12%

English Language Schools

7,001 students

Research & Innovation Excellence

New Zealand invests over NZ$3.7B annually in business R&D (1.47% of GDP), supported by government and higher education research funding.

$3.7B+

Business R&D

Expenditure 2023

National Science Challenges

The Government has invested NZ$680.8 million over ten years across 11 National Science Challenges addressing key issues like health, environment, and primary sector innovation.

Centres of Research Excellence

Ten Centres of Research Excellence receive funding of NZ$49.8 million per annum to drive world-class interdisciplinary research.

Industry–Academia Collaboration

New Zealand’s seven Crown Research Institutes partner with universities and industry—such as AgResearch with Fonterra and Callaghan Innovation—to translate research into commercial solutions.

Key Research Areas

Health & Ageing Well

Medical research, biotechnology, and health innovation

Primary Sector & Environment

Sustainable agriculture, land and water systems

Climate Change & Resilience

Environmental modeling, disaster preparedness

Tech Innovation & AI

Digital technologies, artificial intelligence, cyber-physical systems

New Zealand Higher Education System

Guide to New Zealand universities, degree structures, and academic programs for international students

Types of New Zealand Institutions

Universities

Key Statistics

Domestic Tuition

NZ$6,000-9,000*

International Tuition

NZ$22,000-45,000

Employment Rate

95%

International Students

120,000+

More Statistics

Number of Institutions

Research Funding

NZ$500M+

Average Class Size

20 students

Student:Faculty Ratio

18:1

Key Features

Globally recognized qualifications

Research-intensive education

Strong emphasis on critical thinking

Practical learning approaches

Post-study work opportunities

Vibrant student community

Leading Institutions

University of Auckland

#1 New Zealand University • Est. 1883

80%

Avg. Salary: NZ$70K

Notable: Top 100 global university

University of Otago

#2 New Zealand University • Est. 1869

85%

Avg. Salary: NZ$66K

Notable: New Zealand's oldest university

Victoria University of Wellington

#3 New Zealand University • Est. 1897

90%

Avg. Salary: NZ$68K

Notable: Top-ranked for research quality

Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics

Key Statistics

Domestic Tuition

NZ$4,000-7,000*

International Tuition

NZ$18,000-25,000

Employment Rate

93%

International Students

35,000+

More Statistics

Number of Institutions

Research Funding

NZ$50M

Average Class Size

25 students

Student:Faculty Ratio

20:1

Key Features

Industry-focused qualifications

Hands-on practical training

Work-integrated learning

Strong industry connections

Flexible study options

Pathway to further education

Leading Institutions

Unitec Institute of Technology

#1 ITP in New Zealand • Est. 1976

90%

Avg. Salary: NZ$58K

Notable: Largest ITP in Auckland

Ara Institute of Canterbury

#2 ITP in New Zealand • Est. 2016

92%

Avg. Salary: NZ$55K

Notable: Excellence in vocational training

Waikato Institute of Technology

#3 ITP in New Zealand • Est. 1968

95%

Avg. Salary: NZ$57K

Notable: Strong connections with Waikato industries

New Zealand Degree Structure

Undergraduate Education

New Zealand undergraduate degrees typically take 3-4 years, following the British education system structure

Bachelor's Degrees

3-4 years

Structure

Core papers (60%)
Major/specialized papers (30%)
Electives/minor subjects (10%)

Popular Programs

Bachelor of CommerceBachelor of ScienceBachelor of ArtsBachelor of Engineering

Program Focus:

Comprehensive academic knowledge and skills development

Diplomas & Certificates

6-24 months

Structure

Technical competencies (70%)
Theoretical knowledge (30%)

Popular Programs

Diploma in BusinessNew Zealand Certificate in ITDiploma in Tourism and TravelCertificate in Health Sciences

Program Focus:

Practical skills and specialized knowledge

Postgraduate Education

Advanced programs focusing on specialized knowledge, research and professional development

Master's Degrees

1-2 years

Structure

Advanced coursework (50%)
Research project/thesis (50%)

Popular Programs

Master of Business AdministrationMaster of EngineeringMaster of ScienceMaster of International Relations

Program Focus:

Advanced specialization and research competencies

PhD/Doctoral Degrees

3-4 years

Structure

Independent research (90%)
Seminars and presentations (10%)

Popular Programs

PhD in SciencesPhD in ArtsDoctor of Business AdministrationPhD in Engineering

Program Focus:

Original research contribution to knowledge

Popular Academic Programs in New Zealand

Bachelor of Commerce

AccountingMarketingFinance

A comprehensive business program covering management principles, economics, accounting, and marketing with real-world case studies and internship opportunities in New Zealand's business sector.

Details and Requirements

Prerequisites

University Entrance qualification or equivalent, NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits in relevant subjects

Tuition Fees

Domestic: NZ$6,500-7,500 per year; International: NZ$32,000-36,000 per year

Career Outcomes

Business analysis and strategy skills
Financial and commercial acumen
Management and leadership capabilities

Bachelor of Science

Environmental ScienceComputer ScienceBiology

A versatile science degree offering theoretical knowledge and practical application across various scientific disciplines, with strong emphasis on New Zealand's unique environmental contexts.

Details and Requirements

Prerequisites

University Entrance qualification or equivalent, NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits in science subjects

Tuition Fees

Domestic: NZ$7,000-8,500 per year; International: NZ$33,000-39,000 per year

Career Outcomes

Scientific research and analytical skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Laboratory and field research techniques

Bachelor of Tourism Management

Sustainable TourismHospitality ManagementAdventure Tourism

A specialized program focusing on New Zealand's leading tourism industry, combining business principles with sustainable tourism practices and cultural understanding of Māori tourism perspectives.

Details and Requirements

Prerequisites

University Entrance qualification or equivalent, NCEA Level 3

Tuition Fees

Domestic: NZ$6,000-7,000 per year; International: NZ$29,000-33,000 per year

Career Outcomes

Tourism industry analysis and planning
Sustainable tourism development
Cross-cultural communication skills

Important Note: Tuition fees marked with * are subject to annual adjustments. International students should also budget for visa costs, insurance (approx. NZ$600 per year), and living expenses (NZ$15,000-25,000 per year).

New Zealand Study Cost Calculator

All amounts are in New Zealand Dollar (NZ$)

Program Level

Program Type

City

Include Additional Costs

First Year Cost

$0 - $0

Full Course (3 years)

$0 - $0

Monthly Living in Auckland

$0 - $0

Note: These are estimated costs as of April 2025. New Zealand universities charge annual tuition fees that vary by program type and institution. PhD students may be eligible for domestic tuition rates. Actual costs may vary by specific institution, program, and personal lifestyle. International students are required to have sufficient funds to cover living expenses (NZ$20,000 per year is the immigration requirement).

Study in New Zealand

World-class education in nature's paradise with exceptional quality of life

✓ Safe environment

✓ Work while studying

✓ Pathway to PR

Spaces limited • 100% free assessment • Immigration-qualified advisors

New Zealand Study Requirements Guide

Undergraduate Programs

New Zealand Academic Requirements

NCEA Level 3 or equivalent foreign secondary school qualification
IB accepted (minimum 24 points depending on university)
Foundation courses available for international students not meeting direct entry

Language Requirements

IELTS Academic

6.0-6.5 overall

TOEFL iBT

80-90

PTE Academic

50-58

Application Process

Apply directly through the university's online portal or through an authorized education agent

Submit certified academic documents, language certificates, and statement of purpose

Complete online application form and pay application fee (NZ$75-100)

Key deadlines: October 31 for Semester 1 (February start); May 31 for Semester 2 (July start)

Postgraduate Programs

Entry Requirements

Master's Degrees

Bachelor's degree with a B average or better (NZ grading system; equivalent to 2.8-3.0 GPA)

Doctoral Programs

Master's degree or honours degree with B+ or higher average, research proposal, and acceptance by a supervisor

Language Requirements for Postgraduate

IELTS Academic

6.5-7.0 overall

TOEFL iBT

90-100

PTE Academic

58-65

Application Strategy

✓

Direct university applications

Apply through university online portals or through authorized agents

✓

New Zealand scholarship deadlines

New Zealand Scholarships, University Doctoral Scholarships, NZ Excellence Awards (apply 6-9 months ahead)

✓

PhD supervisors

Contact potential supervisors 2-3 months before application deadline

Professional Programs

Medicine (MBChB)

One-year Health Sciences First Year program with excellent grades
UCAT ANZ requirement for domestic students
Limited places for international students with higher tuition fees

Law Programs

LLB: First-year law courses with competitive entry based on grades
LLM: Law degree with B+ average or higher
Advanced English language skills (IELTS 6.5-7.0) required for all programs

MBA Programs

Bachelor's degree, 3-5+ years work experience
GMAT 550-600+ for top schools (some offer GMAT waivers)
New Zealand MBAs: 12-18 months duration

New Zealand Student Visa Information (Updated 2024)

Requirements

→
University offer of place/admission letter
→
Financial proof: NZ$20,000/year for living expenses plus tuition fees
→
Comprehensive medical and travel insurance
→
Valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond intended stay)

Key Information

→
Application fee: NZ$495 (online application)
→
Apply at least 8-10 weeks before your program starts
→
Post-study: 1-3 year open work visa available after graduation (depending on study level)
→
Work rights: 20 hours per week during term, full-time during scheduled breaks

Important Update (October 2024)

Accredited Employer Work Visa available after graduation with job offer from an accredited employer. Fast-track residence pathway possible through the Skilled Migrant Category with minimum 160 points or through the 2021 Resident Visa for those who have lived in NZ for 3+ years.

New Zealand University Application & Visa Process

A comprehensive guide to university applications and student visa procedures for international students seeking to study in New Zealand.

New Zealand University Application Process

Undergraduate Studies

1. Qualification Check

Verify entry requirements through NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority) and research programs on Education New Zealand's official website.

2. Application Submission

Apply directly through university portals or via nominated agents. Main intakes in February and July with deadlines 3-4 months prior.

3. English Proficiency

Demonstrate English via IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (80+), or PTE Academic (50+). Some universities accept internal tests.

4. Personal Statement

Submit a 500-1000 word statement outlining academic goals and relevant experiences.

5. Documentation

Provide certified transcripts, passport copy, NCEA Level 3 equivalence proof, and reference letters.

6. Conditional Offers

Complete any foundation programs or English courses if required before degree admission.

Postgraduate Studies

1. Programme Selection

Research programs through Universities New Zealand and contact potential supervisors for research-based degrees.

2. Academic Requirements

Most Master's programs require a relevant Bachelor's degree with B+ average or higher.

3. Research Proposal

Submit detailed research outline (1500-2000 words) for thesis-based programs including methodology and timelines.

4. Work Experience

Provide CV and professional references for MBA and specialized programs requiring work history.

5. Scholarships

Apply for NZ International Scholarships, University-specific awards, and Commonwealth Scholarships.

6. Interview Preparation

Attend virtual interviews for competitive programs like clinical psychology or MBA.

New Zealand Student Visa Process

1. Offer of Place

Obtain unconditional admission letter from a NZQA-approved education provider.

2. Financial Evidence

Show NZD $20,000/year for living costs plus tuition fees through bank statements or financial guarantees.

3. Health Requirements

Complete medical exam and chest X-ray if staying over 6 months. Purchase approved health insurance.

4. Character Certificates

Provide police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for over 5 years.

5. Online Application

Submit visa application through Immigration NZ's online portal with scanned documents.

6. Visa Conditions

Maintain full-time enrollment and work up to 20 hours/week during studies (40hrs in holidays).

Key Timelines & Important Considerations

12+

12+ Months Before

Research programs and English test preparation.

6 Months Before

Submit university applications (Oct/Nov for Feb intake).

3 Months Before

Lodge visa application (processing takes 4-6 weeks).

1 Month Before

Arrange accommodation and travel insurance.

Arrival

Attend orientation and validate visa at border.

Critical Deadlines

1 October: Main deadline for February intake at most universities
1 April: Deadline for July intake applications
Varies: Scholarship deadlines typically 6-8 months before intake

Regional Considerations

Auckland: Highest living costs (~NZ$25,000/year)
South Island universities offer lower living costs
Wellington: Strong for IT and government-related studies

Current Policies (2024)

Post-study work visa valid 1-3 years depending on qualification level
Partners of students can apply for open work visas

Students must maintain full-time enrollment for visa compliance
Mandatory health insurance for international students

Student Life in New Zealand

Your essential guide to thriving at a New Zealand university, with official data on costs, requirements, and opportunities from Immigration NZ and Education New Zealand.

1. Pre-Arrival Planning

Visa & Health Insurance

Student Visa: Processing time 20-25 working days; fee NZD $430; requires proof of enrollment.
Funds Requirement: NZD $20,000/year for living costs + tuition proof.
Health Insurance: Mandatory for international students; approved providers like Southern Cross or Allianz (NZD $500-$700/year).
Travel Insurance: Recommended for first 2-3 weeks until NZ policy activates.

Financial & Documentation

Proof of Funds: Bank statements showing NZD $1,667/month or sponsorship documents.
Bank Accounts: Open with ANZ, ASB, or Westpac using passport and enrollment letter.
IRD Number: Required for part-time work; apply via Inland Revenue.
Academic Documents: Certified translations of qualifications if not in English.

2. Arrival & Orientation

First Week Checklist

Activate NZ SIM (Spark/Vodafone: NZD $30-50/month plans)
Complete university enrollment and collect student ID
Attend mandatory international student briefing
Set up campus wifi and learning platforms (Canvas/Moodle)
Register with local medical center

O-Week Structure

Day 1: Pōwhiri (Māori welcome ceremony) & campus tour
Days 2-3: Academic orientation and course approval
Day 4: Clubs Day with 100+ society stalls
Day 5: City safety workshops and public transport guide
Weekend: Beach cleanups and social mixers

3. Housing & Cost of Living

Accommodation Options

University Halls: NZD $300-$450/week (meal plans included)
Flatting: NZD $150-$250/week in shared houses
Homestay: NZD $280-$350/week including meals
Studio Apartments: NZD $400-$600/week in cities

Monthly Budget Guide

Accommodation: NZD $600-$1,200
Groceries: NZD $100-$150
Transport: NZD $50-$100 (AT HOP card in Auckland)
Utilities: NZD $80-$120
Leisure: NZD $200-$300

4. Academic Structure & Support

Degree Framework

Bachelor's: 3-4 years (360-480 credits)
Master's: 1-2 years (120-240 credits)
Assessment: Mix of exams, practical work, and continuous assessment

Support Services

Māori student support (Marae-based services)
Academic skills workshops and writing centers
Career Development and Employment Services
24/7 mental health support line

5. Campus Life & Extracurriculars

Clubs & Culture

200+ student clubs including Kapa Haka groups
Cultural festivals like Polyfest and Diwali celebrations
Student associations (NZUSA) organizing events
Outdoor clubs offering tramping and kayaking

Sports & Adventure

University gym memberships: NZD $150-$300/year
Inter-university competitions in rugby and netball
Ski trips to Queenstown/Ruapehu (NZD $300-$500)
Weekly social sports leagues

6. Work & Career Development

Work Rights: Up to 20 hrs/week during semester, full-time in holidays for degree students.

Career Services: Internship programs with 500+ employers nationwide.

Post-Study Work Visa: Up to 3 years for bachelor's/master's graduates.

Industry Partnerships: STEM students access to 100+ research internships.

7. Health, Wellbeing & Safety

Health Services

Campus medical centers: NZD $40-$60 consultation (insurance covered)
24/7 mental health support: 1737 free call/text
ACC coverage for accidental injuries
Mandatory travel insurance for international students

Safety & Emergency

Emergency number: 111 for police/fire/ambulance
Safe Walk services on campus 24/7
Natural disaster preparedness workshops
Student safety app with campus alerts