Over the last three decades, New Zealand has become a popular study destination for international students from all over the globe.

Our tertiary providers offer internationally recognised qualifications and quality academic programmes, and our major universities rank high on the world’s list of top universities. The University of Auckland, one of New Zealand’s most established tertiary providers, is among the world’s top 100 universities. 

Recent changes to the Student Visa Category has led to the introduction of a more regulated education system (particularly within the export education industry) and a higher level of quality assurance systems that protects international students from sub-standard education providers. 

To protect overseas students, Immigration New Zealand won’t issue a visa if the course you have chosen is not approved by NZQA and/or Universities New Zealand.

To be eligible for a student visa, you will need to meet the following criteria: 

• an offer of place from an educational institution approved by the New

Zealand Qualifications Authority

• a written guarantee from an institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand (if you’re under 18 years)

• evidence of sufficient funds to live on while you are studying

• a return air ticket to your country, or evidence of sufficient funds to buy one.

The above list is just a brief overview of the requirements, there are more conditions that you will need to meet. Every student visa application is treated on a case-by-case basis, therefore not all outcomes are the same.