Study in New Zealand
Eight universities, 25 hours of work a week and up to three years to work after a master’s.
- Main intakes
- February and July
- Visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa — from NZD 850
- Money to show
- NZD 20,000 a year (tertiary)
- Work in term
- Up to 25 hours a week (visas from 3 Nov 2025)
- After graduating
- Post-Study Work Visa, up to 3 years
- Applying
- Directly to each institution
Checked against official sources on 31 October 2026. Information only, not immigration advice.
Studying in New Zealand
New Zealand has eight universities plus polytechnics, all applied to directly. The academic year starts in late February, with a second semester from mid-July. Post-study work rights are generous for postgraduate graduates.
How applications work
Apply directly to each university or polytechnic. Semester 1 runs from late February and Semester 2 from mid-July.
Getting your visa
With your offer you apply for a Fee Paying Student Visa, from NZD 850. You must show NZD 20,000 a year for tertiary study, or NZD 1,667 a month for courses shorter than a year.
Working and staying on
Student visas granted from 3 November 2025 allow up to 25 hours of work a week in term and full time in scheduled holidays. After a master’s or doctorate, the Post-Study Work Visa can last three years; after a level 8 postgraduate diploma, one year.
Universities in New Zealand
See all 42Main student cities
Official links
- VisaFee Paying Student Visa (Immigration New Zealand)
- StudyingStudy with New Zealand
- Work rulesWorking on a student visa (Immigration New Zealand)
- Money and costsCost of living (Study with New Zealand)
Information only, not immigration advice. Last checked: 31 October 2026.
Guides for New Zealand
Planning to study in New Zealand?
Shortlist universities, track every application and follow the steps after your offer, each linked to the official page.
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