New Zealand

Study in New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the safest, most welcoming, and fastest-growing study destinations for international students. Known for its world-class universities, innovative teaching, strong industry connections, and breathtaking natural beauty, New Zealand offers globally recognised qualifications and an excellent quality of life. The government actively supports international education, making it an attractive choice for Indian students.

Intakes

• February: Major intake with wide program options.
• July: Secondary intake across most universities.
• October/November: Limited intake for select courses.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Programs

• Successful completion of Class 12 from a recognised board.
• Minimum 65–75% overall (varies by course and institution).
• Proof of English language proficiency.

Postgraduate Programs

• Recognised Bachelor’s degree with strong academic record.
• Minimum 55–65% overall (depending on program).
• English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or equivalent).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and Resume/CV.
• Work experience or portfolios may be required for some specialised courses.

English Language Proficiency

• IELTS Academic: 6.0–6.5 overall, no band less than 5.5/6.0.
• TOEFL iBT: 80–95 overall.
• PTE Academic: 50–58 overall.
• Duolingo English Test: 105–120 (accepted by many institutions).

Education Costs (Approximate, Per Year)

• Tuition Fees:
• Undergraduate: NZD 20,000 – 30,000
• Postgraduate: NZD 22,000 – 35,000
• Medicine & MBA: NZD 40,000 – 60,000
• Living Expenses (as per 2025 visa rules):
• Minimum funds required: NZD 20,000 per year for living.
• Average monthly expenses: NZD 1,500 – 2,000 depending on city.
• Other Costs:
• Student Visa Application Fee: ~NZD 430
• Health and Travel Insurance: NZD 600 – 1,200 per year

Recent Visa & Immigration Rules (2025–26)

• Students changing their provider or lowering their level of study must apply for a new student visa.
• Work rights expansion: More students (especially tertiary level) are now allowed to work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during holidays.
• Indian qualifications are officially recognised under New Zealand’s List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) – no extra assessment required for many degrees.
• Students are advised to apply for their visa at least three months before the course start date.

Post-Study Work Visa & PR Pathway

• After completing eligible programs, graduates can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (up to 3 years, depending on qualification).
• Work visas in Green List occupations help create a pathway toward Skilled Migrant Category Residence (PR).
• Relevant work experience in New Zealand greatly improves chances of securing permanent residency.

Top Courses in New Zealand That Lead to PR

Choosing programs in high-demand sectors improves long-term residency opportunities:

• Information Technology (Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, AI)
• Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Environmental)
• Healthcare (Nursing, Public Health, Aged Care, Allied Health)
• Business Analytics, Project Management, Supply Chain Management
• Teaching (Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary)
• Agriculture, Horticulture, Food Technology
• Hospitality and Tourism Management

NZ–Australia Embassy & Visa Updates (2025–26)

• New Zealand and Australia continue to maintain close travel and migration cooperation.
• Students and residents with valid Australian visas may benefit from simplified transit or entry into New Zealand under NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) rules.
• Both countries coordinate closely on security checks, making background verification and financial proof requirements stricter.
• Indian students applying for New Zealand visas through embassies in India should expect more detailed checks on funds, intent, and academic records, similar to Australia’s tightened rules.

Popular Universities in New Zealand

• University of Auckland
• University of Otago
• Victoria University of Wellington
• University of Canterbury
• Massey University
• University of Waikato
• Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
• Lincoln University

Scholarships for Indian Students

• New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
• Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
• University-specific merit scholarships
• Research grants for PhD and postgraduate students

Document Checklist

1. Valid Passport
2. Offer letter from NZ university/college
3. Academic transcripts (10th, 12th, Bachelor’s as applicable)
4. Degree certificates
5. English test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo)
6. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
7. Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
8. CV/Resume (if applicable)
9. Proof of funds (tuition + living)
10. Health and travel insurance documents
11. Police clearance & medical certificate
12. Passport-size photographs
13. Completed visa application & fee receipts