Study Spectra

Study in New Zealand: approved providers, funds and post-study work

How the New Zealand student visa works, from approved providers and offers of place to funds, health checks and the post-study work visa. The page explains the student visa steps, requirements, intakes and post-study options, and links to the official sources.

New Zealand's student visa needs an offer of place from an approved education provider, evidence of funds and health and character checks. Immigration New Zealand publishes the current conditions on its website.

Student visa: Student visa (fee-paying). Who decides: Immigration New Zealand.

Often a good fit for: Students looking for applied and vocational programmes as well as degrees, and who can document their funds and course choice.

Why students consider New Zealand

• A smaller number of institutions with a strong focus on practical and applied programmes.
• Student visa holders may be able to work part time during study within published limits.
• A post-study work visa for eligible graduates.

Student visa steps

1. Choose a programme at an approved education provider and apply for admission.
2. Accept the offer of place and pay any required tuition fees as instructed.
3. Prepare proof of funds, medical and police certificates where required, and your passport.
4. Apply online with Immigration New Zealand and submit supporting evidence.
5. Travel only after the visa is approved.

What you will usually need

• Offer of place from an approved provider.
• Evidence of funds for tuition, living costs and return travel.
• Medical and character evidence where required.
• Valid passport.
• Evidence of English language ability where required by the provider.

Funds and costs

Immigration New Zealand sets the living-cost funds requirement. Tuition depends on the provider and programme. Check both on the official site before applying.

Language and tests

Providers set their own minimum scores for IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or similar tests.

Intakes and timing

February and July are the most common intakes, and some providers admit at other times of year.

After your studies

Eligible graduates may apply for a post-study work visa, with conditions on the level and length of the qualification. Read the current conditions on the official page.

Common things that go wrong

• Check that the provider is approved to enrol international students.
• Funds requirements are revised, so use the current figure.
• Post-study work conditions depend on the qualification, so check before you choose a course.

Official sources

• Immigration New Zealand
• Immigration New Zealand: Post-study work visa
• Study with New Zealand

Information only. It is not legal or immigration advice and it does not guarantee admission or a visa. Confirm every requirement on the official source.