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    • Study in
New Zealand

    Visa Options, Work Rights & Education Providers

    To study in New Zealand for more than three months, most international students need a student visa. Learn how to apply for a student visa, study and work in New Zealand, 
bring your family, and explore post-study options. 

    Eligibility Assessment
    simple process

    Education-to-Residence Pathway for Studying in NZ

    For many international students, studying in New Zealand is not just about the qualification — it is the first step in a planned pathway to permanent residence. Understanding this pathway before you enrol is critical, because the course you choose and the qualification level you complete directly determine your post-study options.

    Not every course leads to residence. Short courses, lower-level qualifications, and programmes at providers without Pathway or post-study work eligibility may leave you with no onward pathway. This is exactly why getting professional advice before you enrol is so important. New Zealand Shores helps you choose a course and provider that aligns with your long-term immigration goals — not just your study plans.
    Free Eligibility Assessment

    01.

    Study in New Zealand

    We work with you to choose the right education provider and course, we manage your enrolment, and apply for a student visa. You may in some cases work part-time work and build local experience. 

    02.

    Post-Study Work Visa

    After graduation, you may qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa or a Short Term Graduate Visa to stay and work in New Zealand. This gives you open work rights to find employment anywhere in New Zealand.

    03.

    Pathway to residence

    If your job is in demand or on the Green List, you may be eligible to apply for residence in New Zealand. There several Skilled Migrant Residency pathways. In some cases, depending on the duration of your post-study work visa, you may have to secure an AEWV (up to 5 years).

    04.

    Residency application

    If your role is on the Green List (Tier 1 = straight to residence; Tier 2 = after 24 months in the role), or if you meet the Skilled Migrant Category points threshold, you can apply for a resident visa outright. In other cases, you may apply 1 to 3 year after starting work.

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    New Zealand Student Visa Types

    New Zealand welcomes thousands of international students each year to study at its universities, polytechnics, private training establishments, and schools. There are several types of student visa — including the standard Fee Paying Student Visa, the Pathway Student Visa (covering up to three consecutive courses on a single visa), and the Dependent Child Student Visa for school-age children of visa holders. Students enrolled at level 4 or above on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework can work up to 25 hours per week during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduating, eligible students can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa or the new Short Term Graduate Work Visa — and if they secure employment in a role on the Green List or meeting Skilled Migrant Category criteria, they can apply for permanent residence.

    Choosing the right course, the right provider, and the right visa type is critical. The wrong combination can close off work rights, family visa options, and pathways to residence. New Zealand Shores is a licensed immigration advisory and authorised education agent that guides international students from course selection through to visa approval — and beyond, into post-study work and residence planning.

    Student Visas
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    Student Visas

    Not sure where to start?

    New Zealand Shores is a licensed immigration advisory and authorised education agent. Our team includes staff who speak multiple languages and have direct experience with the international student journey. Our end-to-end student service covers:

    • Course and provider selection: We recommend courses that match your goals. We are authorised agents for leading NZ tertiary providers and handle your enrolment directly.
    • Student visa application: We prepare and lodge your student visa application, ensuring every document is complete, correctly formatted, and submitted on time.
    • Family visa applications: If you are bringing your partner or children, we manage their visa applications alongside yours.
    • Work rights guidance: We make sure you understand your work conditions before you arrive, so you can plan your finances and avoid breaching your visa.
    • Post-study planning: Before you even graduate, we advise on your post-study work visa options and help you plan the next step towards residence.
    • Licensed and regulated: We are regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority. Your adviser is legally qualified and professionally accountable.
    Free Eligibility Assessment
    comparison

    Compare Your Study Visa Options

    Quickly understand the difference between common study visa types and find the best fit for your plans.
    Free Eligibility Assessment
    Visa Type Duration Work Rights Can Bring Family Leads to Post-Study Work Visa
    Student Visa Up to 4 years Up to 25 hrs/week check Yes check Yes
    Pathway Student Visa Up to 5 years Up to 25 hrs/week check Yes check Yes
    Exchange Student Visa Duration of exchange check No check No check No
    Dependent child Student Visa Per school year Up to 25 hrs/week check Yes check No
    Talk to an Education Adviser

    How Much Does It Cost to Study in New Zealand?

    Costs vary significantly depending on your qualification level, institution, and location. The table below provides indicative ranges for 2026.

    <trVisa application fee$375 (online)Plus immigration levy of $25.60

    Cost Item Indicative Range (NZD) Notes
    Tuition — English language $300–$450 per week Varies by provider and course length
    Tuition — Certificate/Diploma $12,000–$25,000/year PTEs and polytechnics
    Tuition — Bachelor’s degree $22,000–$35,000/year University dependent; health sciences higher
    Tuition — Postgraduate $26,000–$70,000+/year Engineering and medical programmes at top end. PhD programmes the cheapest post-grad options
    Living costs (INZ minimum) $20,000/year INZ requires evidence of this amount
    Medical insurance $500–$700/year Approved providers; some institutions include it
    Visa Application Fee $750 Varies depending on visa category
    Medical examination $300–$500 If required based on nationality/course length

     

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    Recommended Education Providers

    Explore top universities and institutes across New Zealand that welcome international students — from foundation programmes to postgraduate degrees.

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    Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in New Zealand

    Are you eligible for a student visa?

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    • Clear guidance on study options, pathways, and next steps
    • Honest advice tailored to your goals and background
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    University of Waikato disclaimer

    I acknowledge that the University of Waikato is not, and will not be, liable for any costs, losses, damages, or liability incurred by me or any other party in connection with the services provided by New Zealand Shores limited.

    Furthermore, the University of Waikato makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of information and or services provided by New Zealand Shores Limited.