Background: New Zealand
New Zealand, located in the South Pacific Ocean, comprises two main islands, the North and South Islands along with several smaller islands. It is home to approximately 5.3 million people (2025 estimate), offering a diverse and inclusive multicultural environment. The population includes European (Pakeha), Maori, Asian, and Pacific Islander communities, creating a rich cultural mix that reflects in the country's education system and student life.
New Zealand maintains a high-income, market-based economy recognized for its stability, transparency, and innovation-driven growth. English is the primary language of instruction, while Maori and New Zealand Sign Language are also official languages. The country maintains a reputation for being safe, peaceful, and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for international students.
Official Languages
English, Maori, and NZ Sign Language
Population
~5.3 Million (2025)
Quality of Life
Safe, peaceful, and welcoming
Major Cities
New Zealand's cities are renowned for their excellent quality of life and academic achievement, and they integrate modern amenities with natural beauty.
Auckland
The largest and most varied city, often regarded as the entry point for international students with strong internship and part-time work options.
Wellington
Capital city known for media, arts, and government institutions with excellent exposure for careers in communications, politics, and the arts.
Christchurch
South Island innovation hub known for research, technology, and environmental studies with growing focus on sustainability.
Hamilton
Home to the University of Waikato and technical institutes with strong agricultural and scientific foundations.
Dunedin
Historic city with the University of Otago, renowned for medicine, science, and humanities.
Queenstown
Global tourism hub with top programs in hospitality, tourism, and adventure management.
Why New Zealand?
World-class education
Low GPA requirement
Low English proficiency level requirement
Long gaps acceptable
No age bar
Fee payment after visa approval (AIP)
Part-time work: 20-25 hours per week during study and full-time in breaks
Post-study work visa: up to 3 years for degree graduates
Rolling intakes throughout the year for greater flexibility
Types of Institutions
Universities
Research-led programs with broad academic offerings
Polytechnics
Te Pukenga network with applied, skills-based learning
Private Training Establishments
Specialized vocational and industry-focused programs
Top 10 Popular Courses for International Students (2025)
Information Technology and Software Engineering
Business and Management
Civil and Mechanical Engineering
Nursing and Healthcare
Hospitality and Tourism Management
Construction Management and Quantity Surveying
Education and Early Childhood Teaching
Agricultural Science and Food Technology
Creative Media, Animation and Design
Environmental Science and Sustainability
Many of these fall under New Zealand's Green List programs aligned with high-demand occupations that offer enhanced post-study work and PR pathways.
Prerequisites for Admission
Diploma Applicant
- Minimum 10+2 or equivalent qualification (GPA 1.8)
- IELTS 5.5 overall no band <5, PTE 42
- Passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond intended stay in NZ)
Bachelor's Degree Applicant
- Minimum 10+2 or equivalent qualification (GPA 2.4)
- IELTS 6.0 overall no band <5.5, PTE 50/42
- Passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond intended stay in NZ)
- Strong financial background
Master's Degree Applicant
- Bachelor's degree (minimum 2.5 GPA)
- IELTS 6.5 overall no band <6.0, PTE 58/50
- Passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond intended stay in NZ)
- Financial documents
Fee Structure (Average & Verified Data)
Diploma / Graduate Diploma
NZD $19,000 - $24,000
Bachelor's Degree
NZD $26,000 - $30,000
Master's Degree
NZD $38,000 - $44,000
Cost varies by course, university, and city.
Expenses
Tuition fee (1 year)
NZ$ 16,000 to NZ$ 24,000 (varies by institution)
Living costs
NZ$ 20,000
Travel cost (TC)
Up to NZ$ 2,000
Air ticket
Approx. NPR 50,000
Visa fee
NZ$ 850
Scholarships for International Students
Government
- Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
- NZ Commonwealth Scholarships
- NZ International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
- NZ Excellence Awards (NZEA)
- ASEAN and Pacific Scholarships
Institutional
- Future Skills Academy: up to NZD $2,000 international study grant
- AIS: up to NZD $8,000 off Graduate Diploma + Master's pathway
- PG Diploma Scholarship: NZD $2,000
- Special Discounts: UG programs from NZD $19,000 (1st year) down to NZD $14,000 (3rd year).
Scholarships are merit-based and can cover tuition reductions, living expenses, or both.
FAQs
When are the main academic intakes in New Zealand?+
Most universities and institutes have two primary intakes:
- Semester 1: February/March (major intake)
- Semester 2: July
- Some institutions also offer a smaller Summer or Late intake in October/November.
What are the English language requirements?+
Most institutions require proof of English proficiency through IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL.
- Undergraduate: IELTS 6.0 overall with no band less than 5.5
- Postgraduate: IELTS 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0
What is the processing time for a student visa?+
Most student visas are processed within 2 to 6 weeks. Apply at least 3 months before your course starts to account for peak seasons.
Can I work while studying?+
Yes. In 2026, most international students on a full-time student visa are allowed to work:
- Part-time: up to 25 hours per week during the semester (increased from 20 hours in late 2025)
- Full-time: during scheduled holidays and semester breaks
- PhD or Masters by Research: generally have unlimited work rights
What is the estimated monthly cost of living?+
As of late 2025/2026, INZ generally requires at least NZ$20,000 for living expenses for the first year (or NZ$1,667 per month for shorter courses). Costs vary by city, with Auckland and Wellington higher than Dunedin or Christchurch.
Can I stay and work in New Zealand after I graduate?+
You may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV). The duration depends on your level of study:
- Level 7 (Bachelor's) or higher: generally eligible for a 3-year work visa
- Level 4-6 (diplomas): eligible for a visa equal to your study time if the qualification is on the Green List
Does studying in New Zealand lead to Permanent Residency (PR)?+
While studying does not guarantee PR, it creates a pathway. A Level 7+ qualification in a Green List field strengthens eligibility through the Skilled Migrant Category.