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    Study in New Zealand

    Everything you need to know about studying in New Zealand as an international student.

    Find programs in New Zealand

    Why study in New Zealand?

    New Zealand has a reputation for offering a high standard of education. It’s a welcoming and safe country, making it a popular choice for international students: more than 26,000 international students are studying there.

    The country is the same size as the UK but only 4.6 million people live there, making most of the towns and cities less crowded and easier to get around.

    New Zealand has a Pastoral Care Code of Practice for international students to ensure their safety and well-being.

    Search for a university

    What are the best programs in New Zealand?

    University courses in New Zealand cover a wide range of subjects in foundation level, undergraduate level, and postgraduate level. A bachelor’s degree such as a BA or BSc will take three years to complete, while specialist vocational degrees may take longer.

    Whether you’re looking to study for a bachelor’s, master’s MBA or PhD, Studee can help you find the perfect place to study in New Zealand.

    Find a program in New Zealand

    Program level

    Popular subjects to study in New Zealand

    How Studee can help you

    1. University & program search

      Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

    2. Application guidance

      We'll get you to the right place to start your application

    3. Visa & travel advice

      Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

    Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
    Our services are 100% free for students like you because we're funded by universities.

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    What is the cost of studying in New Zealand?

    A year of a BA course is around $27,000 and up to $73,000 a year for medicine degrees after the first year. Postgraduate degrees can range between $30,000 - $40,000 a year.

    Around $15,000 a year is needed for living expenses. You must be able to show you have this for your visa application.

    International PhD candidates pay the same rate as nationals for their education.

    Student reviews for New Zealand

    • Julietha Fangidae
      Timor-Leste
      Overall experience 5 stars
      Academic
      5 stars
      University social
      5 stars
      Accommodation
      5 stars
      University facilities
      5 stars
      University of Waikato Hospitality Management
      What's it like to study in New Zealand?
      Awesome and peaceful country. After all being placed as the second safest country in the world made even safer.
    • Kiran Nanjappa
      India
      Overall experience 5 stars
      Academic
      5 stars
      University social
      5 stars
      Accommodation
      5 stars
      University facilities
      5 stars
      University of Waikato Business Management
      What's it like to study in New Zealand?
      NZ is a great country, it is known for its natural beauty and as the best tourist destination in the world. There are a few places around which are mind blowing to see. The climate also is not too bad. Great place in the world for me :)
    • Yuxin Huang
      China
      Overall experience 4 stars
      Academic
      3 stars
      University social
      4 stars
      Accommodation
      4 stars
      University facilities
      4 stars
      University of Waikato Aeronautical Engineering
      What's it like to study in New Zealand?
      It is a really beautiful multicultural friendly and peaceful land, it has brilliant natural landscapes as well as commercial areas such as Auckland city.
    • Amalachukwu Okeke
      Nigeria
      Overall experience 5 stars
      Academic
      5 stars
      University social
      5 stars
      Accommodation
      5 stars
      University facilities
      5 stars
      University of Waikato Electronic Engineering
      What's it like to study in New Zealand?
      The locals are super friendly, the country is so so beautiful, lots of natural landscape and beauty. Visited the snow mountain too and it was a good experience. I love New Zealand!
    • Yuan-ting Yang
      Taiwan, Province of China
      Overall experience 4 stars
      Academic
      3 stars
      University social
      2 stars
      Accommodation
      3 stars
      University facilities
      3 stars
      University of Waikato Business Management
      What's it like to study in New Zealand?
      The locals are really friendly and the view in South Island is beyond description.

    Key facts

    • New Zealand dollar $ Currency
    • 172,000 Student population
    • English Language
    • 8 Universities

    Where can you study in New Zealand?

    The country is split into two islands, on the North Island you’ll find cities such as Auckland and Wellington, and on the South Island the largest city is Christchurch. Wherever you live, you won’t be far from the outdoors, including stunning beaches, mountains and lakes. There’s something for everyone, whether you enjoy high-adrenalin sports or prefer to get closer to nature by hiking or cycling.

    Due to the small size of even the most modern cities in New Zealand, students are able to walk or cycle to get to university.

    A New Zealand summer starts in December and ends around February; winter is from June to August. The weather varies from warm and subtropical in the far north to cool and temperate in the far south.

    Universities in New Zealand

    What are the requirements to study in New Zealand?

    Qualifications

    Generally, you will need to have completed secondary school education in your home country to a high standard. Some universities may offer you the option of a Technical and Further Education (TAFE) university pathway course; this provides you with a New Zealand highschool qualification. You can then be enrolled at your chosen university.

    English language tests

    New Zealand universities require either an IELTS or TOEFL iBT score for university admission. An IELTS score of 6.0 (TOEFL score of 79-80) is usually the minimum language requirement for undergraduate study, however certain programs may require higher scores. A graduate’s minimum score needs to be around 6.5 (IELTS) or 90-100 (TOEFL). Always check specific program requirements on universities' websites.

    New Zealand student visa

    As an international full time student you’ll need a visa to study in New Zealand. The exact type of visa you need depends on your exact circumstances. You may need a Fee Paying Student Visa, a Foreign Government Supported Student visa, or a Pathway Student Visa. Screen reader support enabled.

    As an international full time student you’ll need a visa to study in New Zealand. The exact type of visa you need depends on your exact circumstances. You may need a Fee Paying Student Visa, a Foreign Government Supported Student visa, or a Pathway Student Visa.

    New Zealand student visa requirements

    How to study in New Zealand

    1. Find a New Zealand university program you want to study
    2. Apply through the university's online platform
    3. Fill out your personal information including educational background and finance details
    4. Submit any documents such as passport copies, official transcripts, diplomas, and certificates
    5. Submit any required reference letters and statements to outline why you are wanting to study in New Zealand
    6. Submit your application and wait for an offer
    7. Accept an offer to study and pay any necessary deposits to secure your place
    8. Start the application process for a Fee Paying Student visa
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