Study destination
Study in New Zealand
Eight public universities, small classes and a safe, relaxed pace of life.
- Main intakes
- Feb, Jul
- Bachelor’s
- 3 years
- Master’s
- 1 to 2 years
- English tests
- IELTS, PTE
01
Why study in New Zealand
New Zealand has eight public universities, alongside polytechnics and private institutions, with small classes and a relaxed pace of life. Students can work up to 25 hours a week during term, and bachelor’s and master’s graduates can stay for up to three years to work.
Eight public universities
Every university is public, so standards are consistent across the country.
Practical learning
Polytechnics offer applied diplomas and degrees with industry placements.
Work after you graduate
A post-study work visa of up to three years after a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Safe and relaxed
Small cities, a relaxed pace of life and easy access to the outdoors.
02
Universities
| University | Known for |
|---|---|
| University of AucklandAuckland | Research, engineering, business |
| University of OtagoDunedin | Medicine, health sciences |
| Victoria University of WellingtonWellington | Law, public policy, sciences |
| University of CanterburyChristchurch | Engineering, sciences |
| Massey UniversityPalmerston North | Agriculture, business, aviation |
Also on our list
- Ara Institute of Canterbury
- Auckland University of Technology
- Lincoln University
- Otago Polytechnic
- Unitec Institute of Technology
- University of Waikato
03
Intakes and deadlines
February
- Classes start
- February to March
- Apply
- August to November
The main intake, with the widest choice.
July
- Classes start
- July
- Apply
- February to April
Most universities, with a smaller choice of courses.
04
Tuition and living costs
Typical figures for international students. Fees and visa amounts change every year, so a counsellor confirms the current figures for your course.
- Bachelor’s tuitionMedicine and veterinary science cost more.
- NZD 22,000 to 45,000 a year
- Master’s tuition
- NZD 26,000 to 50,000 a year
- Living costsThe amount you show for the visa, on top of tuition.
- NZD 20,000 a year
05
Entry requirements
English
- IELTS Academic 6.0 for bachelor’s and 6.5 for master’s, at most universities
- PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT also accepted
Academic
- Bachelor’s: HSC or equivalent; a foundation programme for lower results
- Master’s: a relevant bachelor’s degree with good grades
Student visa
- An offer of place and proof of tuition payment
- NZD 20,000 for each year of living costs
- A chest X-ray, and a full medical for courses over a year
06
How to apply, step by step
- 01
Choose courses
Compare universities and polytechnics by subject, budget and city.
- 02
Take an English test
IELTS Academic, PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT.
- 03
Apply and receive an offer of place
Send your certificates, transcripts and English score.
- 04
Pay the tuition
Your institution then sends the receipt you need for the visa.
- 05
Complete your medical checks
At a clinic in Dhaka approved by Immigration New Zealand.
- 06
Apply online for the student visa
Upload your documents; Immigration New Zealand may ask for an interview.
07
Fee Paying Student Visa
You apply online to Immigration New Zealand with your offer of place, proof of tuition and funds, and medical results from an approved clinic in Dhaka. The visa is issued electronically.
- Visa feeFees depend on where you apply from; check the current amount when you apply.
- From NZD 750
- Processing timeApply at least three months before your course starts.
- Varies
Documents you need
- Valid passport
- Offer of place
- Proof of tuition payment
- Proof of funds
- Medical and chest X-ray certificates
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- English test result
- Police certificate, for courses over two years
08
Working during and after study
While you study
Up to 25 hours a week during term since November 2025, and full time during scheduled holidays.
After you graduate
A post-study work visa of up to three years after a bachelor’s or master’s degree, with any employer.
09
Common questions
Compare
Other destinations.
Every country has its own intakes, costs and visa rules. Compare them side by side before you decide.
Free counselling
Plan your studies in New Zealand.
Book a free counselling session. We check which universities and courses fit your grades and budget, and give you a timeline for the next intake.
