International students eager to study in New Zealand can apply for a student visa. New Zealand is known for its world-class education, globally recognized degrees, friendly people, and safe environment.

The New Zealand education system is ranked among the top 20 nations offering the best quality education. Every year, over 20,000 vacancies are open for international students, which makes it one of the preferred choices for academics. 

Why study in New Zealand?

Several reasons why international scholars opt to study in New Zealand include its academic reputation and post-study work options. Mentioned below are some of the major reasons to study in New Zealand:

• World-class education system 

The New Zealand education system and universities ranked in the top 3% in the world according to the QS World University ranking. New Zealand education is unique, as it encourages students to work individually, find solutions, and develop unique ideas. Students have a wide range of programs to study. 

• Worldwide Recognized Degree

All qualifications from New Zealand are globally recognized, which helps international students to work in any part of the world. 

• Broad Opportunities for Study and Research

The New Zealand University provides broad opportunities to students for study and research in areas like environmental science, agriculture, and sustainability. With access to several facilities and opportunities, it allows scholars to work closely with experienced professionals and faculty on their projects.

• Duration of stay

Once international students complete a course, which is typically valid for the length of the course, they must renew it if they want to stay longer. After graduation, students can apply for a post-study work visa, which is valid for 3 years, depending on their qualification level and duration of stay, allowing them to stay and work in New Zealand. 

• Safe and Welcoming Environment

New Zealand is known for its safety and welcoming environment to live and study in the country with locals. Not only this, but it also helps students to experience a country's unique culture and helps them to explore tradition, language, and values.

Education System in New Zealand

The New Zealand education system distinguishes between different institutions on levels of education.

The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) is a system that acknowledges the level and quality of education offered by the education provider in the country (New Zealand). 

The New Zealand qualification framework has 10 levels:

• Level 1-4 includes the national certificate of educational achievement, which is the main qualification in secondary schools and basic vocational training.

• Level 5-6 includes vocational certificates and diplomas.

• Level 7-10 includes degree, graduate, and postgraduate studies and qualifications.

Top Courses in New Zealand

Some of the top courses offered for international students are below:

• MBA

• Information Technology

• Supply Chain Management

• Computer Science

• Aeronautical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Nursing

• MBBS

• Graphic Designing

Cost of Studying in New Zealand 2025

The cost of studying in New Zealand ranges between NZD 20,000 and NZD 55,000. It also depends on the duration and level of the course, and the university students applying. 

Take a look below to have a better idea of the amount to study in New Zealand.

Intakes in New Zealand Universities

New Zealand offers two main intakes:

• February intake (Semester 1)

• July intake (Semester 2)

Many universities and institutions also provide September or November admissions, along with rolling admissions for certain programs.

Scholarships to Study in New Zealand

1. Fulbright New Zealand US Graduate Awards

This scholarship is for students from the United States who want to pursue postgraduate or research programs in any discipline at universities in New Zealand. These awards cover tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and additional costs.

2. New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade Scholarships

A range of scholarships is offered at all levels of study for students from various nations in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. These scholarships are fully funded, encompassing tuition fees, a biweekly living allowance, and other related expenses.

3. New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships 

This scholarship is best for international students enrolled in PhD programs as it covers full tuition fees and living costs for a duration of up to three years at New Zealand universities. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit.

QS Rankings of New Zealand Universities

• Auckland University of Technology

• Lincoln University

• University of Waikato

• University of Canterbury

• Victoria University of Wellington

• Massey University

• The University of Auckland

• University of Otago

Post-Study Work Permit in New Zealand

The post-study work permit allows international students to work in the country for up to 3 years. However, to apply for a PSWP, international students must meet the eligibility requirements, which include

• Must have studied a level 7 degree qualification

• If studying a non-degree qualification below Level 7, then the qualification must be listed on the qualifications eligible for a post-study work visa list.

• Your occupation must be a related subject if applying through the non-degree level 7 option. 

Requirements for the New Zealand student visa

To apply for a New Zealand study visa, an international student needs a

• Valid passport 

• Offer letter

• Financial proof 

• Health and travel insurance 

• Medical certificate 

• Police clearance certificate 

• Proof of English language proficiency

How to apply for a New Zealand study visa?

1. Get an offer letter 

International students must enroll in a program and receive an offer letter from an approved New Zealand education institution. 

2. Gather documents 

To attach the documents with the visa application form, it is essential to collect all required documents, including a valid passport, proof of funds, a medical certificate, a police clearance certificate, a return ticket home, and a cover letter. 

3. Complete the application 

Visit the official website of Immigration New Zealand and create an account. Then, fill out the application form with the required information and documents. 

4. Submit and pay 

Submit the visa application and pay a non-refundable fee.

5. Wait for the decision 

Wait for the immigration authority to process your application, and you will be notified via email.

Summary

New Zealand is certainly an outstanding option for higher education for those students seeking to study abroad.

It stands as one of the most favored choices among students and holds the second position on the Global Peace Index 2025.

With a remarkable education system, globally recognized qualifications, abundant research opportunities, and a high quality of life, New Zealand presents numerous advantages, especially through its prestigious universities.

Izago Immigration can assist you in studying in New Zealand with their expertise and knowledge to help clients. We help you obtain a New Zealand student visa on time, and then you can immigrate to New Zealand.