About
New Zealand in the south western Pacific Ocean consists of the North Island and South Island both marked with distinctive volcanoes and glaciations. The country is a popular tourist destination with landscapes varying from steaming volcanoes and geysers, rolling green hills, icy glaciers, snowy mountain ranges, famous for its distinctive character and adventure sports. New Zealand itself is a multi-cultural nation, with a fusion of Maori (the indigenous people), Pacific Island, European and Asian people combining to make a vibrant and colorful society. It’s population just over four million people, known affectionately as ‘Kiwis’, are easy going, warm and welcoming.
Why Study in NZ
New Zealand has several types of higher education institutions: universities, colleges, private institutions and polytechnics. There are 8 universities in New Zealand, which all offer high quality education. All 8 of these universities are ranked within the QS World University Ranking top 500. The highest ranked is the University of Auckland, which is in 82nd place, followed by the University of Otago in 151st place.
One great advantage to studying in New Zealand is the unique approach to education. Students are encouraged to think as an individual and find their own solutions, which is how many develop unique strengths and ideas whilst studying in the country.
You are able to study in New Zealand at all of the traditional levels; undergraduate (bachelor’s), postgraduate (master’s) and doctoral (PhD). There are options to gain specific qualifications, such as Graduate Diplomas and Honours. These types of study generally last one year.
NZ for International Students
New Zealand has been gaining ground as a popular study destination among international students owing to the numerous advantages the country offers. Globally recognised as a provider of quality education, courses less expensive as compared to the US and the UK, high-quality living conditions, and excellent opportunities for employment on completion of studies, are a few reasons worth mentioning. The country also offers prestigious scholarships to international students applying for Bachelors’ and Masters’ degrees. The support services to study in New Zealand for international students are among the best in the world and the country is welcome to immigration more than almost any other country.
Study opportunities
Secondary school qualifications
The New Zealand secondary school certificate is called the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA). It is officially recognized in New Zealand and has international status.
Tertiary and Vocational qualifications
New Zealand higher education has 10 levels of study with level 1 being a certificate and level 10 a doctoral degree. Each level is progressive in terms of complexity and difficulty. Below are the levels and their corresponding qualifications:
1. Certificates – Levels 1-4
2. Diplomas – Levels 5 & 6
3. Bachelor’s degrees/graduate diplomas – Level 7
4. Postgraduate certificates/diplomas. Honors Bachelor’s degree – Level 8
5. Master’s degree – Level 9
6. Doctoral degree – Level 10
All major education providers for the above named qualifications are registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Costs of Living
New Zealand’s flexible education system has study options to suit every budget. The cost of living is similar to other OECD countries, and is teamed with an excellent work/life balance and a high quality of life.
Fees
From postgraduate degrees to short-term English language courses, there’s a qualification to suit you. Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the type of course, where you study and how long you study for.
School fees
Annual fees for state schools start at about $11,000 for primary schools and $13,000 for secondary schools. Annual fees for private primary and secondary schools start at about $25,000.
Diplomas/Certificates
Choose a course to suit your budget. For example, study for a two-year New Zealand Diploma in Engineering for $18,500 or a one-term Certificate in Computing for $12,425.
Bachelor’s degree
Fees range from about $22,000 to $32,000, with higher fees for subjects such as medicine and veterinary science. Many bachelor’s degrees can be completed in three years.
Postgraduate degree
Fees range from about $26,000 to $37,000, with higher fees for subjects such as medicine and veterinary science.
PhDs
International PhD students pay the same as New Zealand PhD students, which is about $6,500 to $9,000 per year for most subjects.
English language courses
Choose a course to suit your budget. For example, study a general English course for $300 per week, or a Cambridge English exam course for $5,100 for 12 weeks.
Medical Insurance
It is compulsory for students to take out full medical insurance cover. An average medical insurance cover for a single student would cost approximately NZ₨ 22,518.83 ()-600 per year. The Research & International Office holds information on New Zealand medical insurance companies which can be forwarded on request.
Working while you study
Getting a part-time job while you study can help you pay your living expenses, meet new people and gain valuable experience of the New Zealand workplace.
Working while studying can be a good way to gain New Zealand work experience and help support you while you’re studying abroad.
Gaining experience of a New Zealand workplace also helps you develop skills such as communication, teamwork, timekeeping, interpersonal skills and workplace-relevant English language skills. Balance your work hours with your study obligations, so your academic performance isn’t compromised, and remember that some scholarships set limits on the number of hours you can work.
Your work rights while studying

Accommodation costs
The cost of accommodation will vary depending on how you want to live. The national median rent for a three bedroom house is NZ$555 per week , or NZ$215 a room per week approx. There are plenty of options available.
- Halls of residence (or Hostels)
- Homestay (or Private Board)
- Flatting/Independent Accommodation
For detailed, accurate and up-to-date information on student visas and visa requirements please check the official site:
https://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/