Study in New Zealand
Research-led universities, practical qualifications and breathtaking landscapes — in one of the world’s safest and most peaceful countries.
- Intakes: Feb · Jul
- 8 universities
- Up to 3 years post-study
Study in New Zealand to unlock new possibilities
New Zealand is a safe, welcoming country known for its stunning landscapes, friendly people and practical, research-led teaching. All eight of its universities are government-funded and internationally ranked, while its institutes of technology and polytechnics offer hands-on, career-focused qualifications.
Smaller class sizes mean closer contact with lecturers, and eligible graduates can stay on with a Post-Study Work Visa to build experience in their field.
Why study in New Zealand?
- Post-study work: a Post-Study Work Visa of up to 3 years, depending on your qualification.
- Work while you study: part-time work during term and full-time during scheduled holidays for eligible students.
- Personal teaching: smaller classes and close contact with lecturers.
- Peaceful & safe: consistently ranked among the most peaceful countries in the world.
Key facts
Key facts to study in New Zealand
Education
Country stats
Weather
Weather shows typical average winter lows and summer highs.
Requirements
What you’ll need
Exact requirements depend on your course and university. Your counsellor will give you a personalised checklist and review every document with you.
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Valid passport
- English test score (IELTS, PTE or TOEFL)
- Statement of purpose (SOP)
- Letters of recommendation
- Offer of place
- Proof of funds for tuition & living costs
- Medical & police certificates (if required)
- Health & travel insurance
Intakes
When can you start?
Planning around the right intake gives you more course choice, better scholarship chances and time for your visa.
February
Main intakeThe widest choice of programmes at universities and polytechnics.
July
Second intakeA good range of courses, particularly at postgraduate level.
Other dates
Selected coursesSome polytechnic and institute programmes start at other times of the year.
Costs
What will it cost?
Indicative figures to help you plan. We’ll build an exact budget for every university on your shortlist.
| Tuition — undergraduate | ≈ NZ$22,000 – NZ$35,000 per year |
|---|---|
| Tuition — postgraduate | ≈ NZ$26,000 – NZ$40,000 per year |
| Living costs (visa requirement) | Set by Immigration New Zealand — currently NZ$20,000 per year for most students |
| Insurance | Approved medical and travel insurance for your stay |
Figures are approximate and change regularly. Always confirm current fees and visa requirements with your counsellor before you apply.
Work rights
Working during and after your studies
Work rights help you gain experience and support your living costs. Here’s how it works in New Zealand.
While you study
Eligible students can work part-time during term and full-time during scheduled holidays. Immigration New Zealand sets the weekly limit and has changed it recently, so we’ll confirm the current rule for your course.
After you graduate
The Post-Study Work Visa allows eligible graduates to work for almost any employer for up to 3 years, depending on the level and length of their qualification.
Universities
Universities & colleges in New Zealand
We guide applications to a wide range of institutions in New Zealand. Tell us your course, academic profile and budget, and your counsellor will share a shortlist of options that genuinely fit.
FAQs
Questions about studying in New Zealand
Can’t find your answer? Ask your counsellor — we’re happy to help.
Is New Zealand a good choice for a master’s?
Yes — many master’s programmes are 1–2 years long with strong research components, and eligible graduates can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa.
How safe is New Zealand for international students?
New Zealand is consistently ranked among the most peaceful countries in the world, and education providers follow a government code of practice for the wellbeing of international students.
Can I work while studying in New Zealand?
Most students on eligible courses can work part-time during term and full-time during holidays. We’ll confirm your exact work rights when we review your offer.
Want to study in New Zealand?
Get a free counselling session
Speak to a Voco Vision counsellor about courses, costs, scholarships and visas for New Zealand.