For UK students looking for top-notch education, breath taking natural beauty, and a welcoming, safe community, New Zealand is quickly rising to the top of the list. In 2024, more than 73,000 international students will have chosen New Zealand as it provides a unique mix of career opportunities, academic excellence, and lifestyle benefits.
Studying in New Zealand can change your life, regardless of whether you're drawn to the calm surroundings of Dunedin or the energetic city life of Auckland.
One of the ten safest nations in the world, New Zealand is renowned for its multicultural atmosphere, cutting-edge teaching strategies, and excellent educational system3.
UK students must apply for a fee-paying student visa if their course lasts longer than 3 months.
You are eligible if:
Students in the UK must apply as follows:
| Visa Type | Processing Time |
| Student Visa (Online) | 20–45 working days |
| Student Visa (Paper) | 25–50 working days |
| Peak Season Delay | Up to 8 weeks (Jan & July intakes) |
Apply at least 3 months before your course starts to avoid delays.
| University | QS Ranking 2025 | Location |
| University of Auckland | #65 | Auckland |
| University of Otago | #197 | Dunedin |
| Massey University | #230 | Palmerston North |
| Victoria University of Wellington | #240 | Wellington |
| University of Canterbury | #261 | Christchurch |
| University of Waikato | #281 | Hamilton |
| Lincoln University | #407 | Lincoln |
| Auckland University of Technology | #410 | Auckland |
Numerous programs in various disciplines are available in New Zealand. Popular domains consist of:
Management and Business
IT and Computer Science
Sustainability & Environmental Sciences
Life Sciences & Biotechnology
Management of Hospitality and Tourism
Agriculture Science
| Degree Level | Annual Cost (NZD) | Notes |
| Diploma/Certificate | NZD 12,000–18,000 | Vocational programs |
| Bachelor’s | NZD 20,000–30,000 | 3-year degrees |
| Master’s | NZD 25,000–35,000 | Taught or research |
| MBA | NZD 30,000–60,000 | Top-tier programs |
| PhD | NZD 6,500–7,500 | Same fee as domestic students |
Monthly expenses vary by city. Here’s an average breakdown:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (NZD) |
| Accommodation | 800–1,500 |
| Food & Groceries | 400–600 |
| Transportation | 100–200 |
| Utilities & Internet | 150–250 |
| Personal & Leisure | 200–400 |
For students from the UK and other countries, New Zealand provides a number of scholarships:
Government Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | University | Benefit |
| International Student Excellence Scholarship | University of Auckland | Up to NZD 10,000 tuition |
| Tongarewa Scholarship | Victoria University | NZD 5,000–10,000 tuition |
| Lincoln Taught Master Merit Scholarship | Lincoln University | Full tuition + stipend |
| Waikato International Excellence Scholarship | University of Waikato | Tuition + accommodation |
Step 1: Research and submit an application to a reputable university in New Zealand. Get an official Offer of Place after being accepted; this is necessary for your visa application.
Step 2: Gather all required documentation, such as:
Step 3: Create a RealMe Account To access the online visa application portal, register on the Immigration New Zealand website and create a RealMe login.
Step 4: Fill out the online application for a fee-paying student visa. Upload all necessary files, then check them again for accuracy.
Step 5: Use a credit or debit card to pay the NZD 375 visa application fee. Medical examinations and courier services may incur additional fees.
Step 6: If necessary, submit a police clearance certificate and go through a medical examination. These examinations guarantee that you fulfill the character and health requirements of New Zealand.
Step 7: Decisions regarding visas normally take 20 to 45 working days, though they may take longer during busy times. You can check the status of your application online.
Step 8: You will be emailed an electronic visa (eVisa) upon approval. For travel and immigration purposes, print a copy or store it digitally.
For overseas graduates, New Zealand provides ample post-study employment opportunities:
Key Features
If you plan to study in New Zealand for up to two years or more, you will typically need a Fee-Paying Student Visa, which allows full-time study at an approved institution and limited work rights during your studies.
Several New Zealand universities rank globally in QS rankings, particularly for research, employability, and academic reputation. These include institutions known for engineering, business, health sciences, and environmental studies.
A complete document checklist usually includes academic transcripts, offer letter from an approved institution, proof of funds, passport, English language test scores, health certificates, and a genuine student statement.
Applicants must show confirmed enrolment with an approved provider, sufficient financial support, valid health insurance, acceptable medical and police certificates, and intent to comply with visa conditions.
You can get a 1-year work visa for Australia under the "Working Holiday Visa" (subclass 417) category. It's popular with backpackers and travelers who want to earn money while exploring Australia. This visa allows youngsters aged 18-35 to travel and work in Australia for up to one year.
To get a "Working Holiday Visa" for Australia, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Apply online through the Australian government's website and submit all the necessary documents. After getting a working holiday visa, you can leave for Australia. For some, current immigration policies of Australia are straightforward, especially for in-demand skills, while for others, it may be challenging.
The process typically involves choosing a course, applying to universities, receiving an offer letter, arranging finances and insurance, submitting a student visa application, and preparing for departure.
Undergraduate tuition fees for international students generally range from NZD 22,000 to NZD 35,000 per year, depending on the course, institution, and field of study.
Yes, many universities offer dedicated international student offices, academic mentoring, accommodation support, and career guidance to help overseas students adapt successfully.
You can check the official list of approved education providers through NZQA, which regulates and quality-assures institutions and qualifications.
Most full-time international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Graduates may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing them to gain New Zealand work experience relevant to their qualification, which can support future residence pathways.
The main intakes are February and July, with limited programs also offering November intakes depending on the institution and course availability.
Most universities accept IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL scores. Some UK qualifications may qualify for English language exemptions, depending on the institution’s admission policy.
