Applying to New Zealand universities

Why study in New Zealand?

There are many great reasons to consider studying for your degree in New Zealand. These include:

1. Internationally recognised universities
2. Lower tuition fees and living expenses than other destinations such as the U.S and Canada
3. High quality education
4. Advanced facilties
5. Less competition and lower entry requirements
6. Safe and peaceful environment
7. A stunning country with beautiful scenery

For more information, please see our Why Study In New Zealand? guide.

What is the New Zealand higher education system like?

New Zealand has eight state-funded universities, 16 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) and about 550 Private Training Establishments (PTEs), which include English language schools.

Universities offer higher degree-level education. Programmes are research-led and generally academic rather than vocational. In the 2020 QS World University Rankings, seven of New Zealand’s universities were in the top 100 in at least one subject.

ITPs and a few larger PTEs offer vocational degree-level education.

PTEs tend to offer specific vocational programmes, mainly at certificate and diploma level.

Discover more in our guide to the New Zealand higher education system.

How do I choose a New Zealand university?

When deciding which universities to apply to in New Zealand, think about the following factors:

1. Reputation and academic excellence
2. Strengths and research interests
3. Course content
4. Location
5. Costs
6. International student support
7. Funding options
8. Graduate employment record

For more help and advice, please see our choosing a New Zealand university guide.

How do I apply to a university in New Zealand?

For those who have decided to apply to university in New Zealand, you will need to:

1. Check the deadlines
2. Take an English proficiency test (if necessary)
3. Plan your finances
4. Sort out your documentation
5. Complete your application online
6. Fill out and submit your student visa application.

For more information and advice, please see our applying to university in New Zealand guide.

What are the entry requirements for a New Zealand university?

Students from overseas need to be able to show they’ve achieved a similar university entrance level of education.

This includes GCSE A levels for students from the UK, Hong Kong ‘A’ Levels, STPM /Malaysian Higher School Certificate Australian Matriculation Year 12 Certificate.

You will also need to be able to prove your English skills (if it isn't your first language).

Find out more about New Zealand entry requirements.

What documentation do I need to study in New Zealand?

One of the most important things you will need as an overseas student is a study visa. To apply for this, you will need:

• Valid passport – Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your period of stay in New Zealand
• Completed Student Visa Application Form (INZ 1012)
• Application fee payment receipt, as you are required to pay 330 NZD + Rs. 722 (approximately) before your interview
• An offer of a place – You need to have an offer of a place from a New Zealand institute/university. The forms are usually issued after the tuition fees have been received.
• Letter from your current institution confirming status as a study abroad student
• Health insurance receipt
• You may be required to show Health and Character certificates, to prove that your intention of staying in New Zealand is genuine
• Two passport-sized photographs.

Additional documentation required could include:

• Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended
• Scores from tests that your college required, such as TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT
• How you will pay for all educational, living and travel costs.

For more help and advice, take a look at our New Zealand study visas guide.

How can I fund my New Zealand degree?

As a rough guide, you can expect to pay between NZD $26,000 and NZD $37,000 (USD $17,170-24,435) per year as an international student in New Zealand.

For postgraduate students, you will pay between $26,000 and $37,000.

This means you will need solid funding arrangements in place if you are going to study at a Canadian university. Possible options include:

• Funding sources from your home country
• Financial aid from international organisations
• International scholarships and awards from your chosen Canadian universities
• Help from family and/or relatives

For more information and advice on funding your degree in New Zealand, please see our funding guide.