Studying in New Zealand
New Zealand is a country where education and living are in English. The rich culture and abundant job opportunities, as well as proximity to Australia, along with quality education, are some of the reasons why New Zealand is so popular with students.
Increasing permitted part-time work hours for international students
From November 2025 , eligible international students will be able to work up to 25 hours per week (instead of the current 20 hours). All exchange or Study Abroad students
(even for one semester) will also be allowed to work.
Advice for applying early for a student visa
Immigration New Zealand recommends that international students apply for a visa at least three months before their travel date to avoid potential delays, especially during busy times.
Why New Zealand? Benefits and Challenges
With its world-class universities, advanced education system and opportunities to work while studying, studying in New Zealand is a dream destination for your future studies. The country is known as an exciting place to study and live. From university life to the world beyond the classroom, New Zealand has a variety of attractions. However, living and studying in New Zealand also comes with its challenges.
Challenges
Benefits
New Zealand education system
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Doctorate
Schools
Application period: October and November (Mehr and Azar) for the first semester and March and April (Esfand and Ordibehesht) for the second semester
Studying in New Zealand schools
Education in New Zealand is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, but children can start school from the age of 5. To register, you will need to provide documents such as a birth certificate or passport, vaccination certificates, medical information, and emergency contacts.
International schools in New Zealand mainly offer international programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and many are located in major cities such as Auckland and Christchurch. These schools tend to have higher fees and are a good option for international students who want to continue their education in a global education system. Some of the best international schools to study in New Zealand include:
* Rangi Ruru Girls' School: Tuition fees from US$12,000 to US$32,000
* Takapuna Normal Intermediate School: Tuition fees from US$2,500 to US$9,000
* Scots College: Tuition from $25,000 to $31,000
* St Cuthbert's College: Tuition fees from US$13,000 to US$37,000
Undergraduate studies in New Zealand
To study in New Zealand at this level as an international student, you must have a high school diploma (equivalent to a New Zealand diploma) with a minimum GPA of 14. Of course, the minimum GPA varies depending on the university, and top universities require a high GPA for admission. Other requirements include:
* Proficiency in English at least at IELTS level 6.
* Providing high school transcripts
* Providing a portfolio for disciplines such as design
* Fulfilling the prerequisites for each discipline based on university standards
Studying a Master's Degree in New Zealand
Master's degrees can be structured in three ways: research-based (including a thesis or creative work of at least 90 credits), teaching-based (including courses, a project, and research), or a combination of both. Some teaching-based degrees, called "conversion masters," are designed for people who want to change their major and are usually offered in specialized fields.
To study in New Zealand at this level, the minimum requirement is a bachelor's degree or equivalent. However, additional requirements vary depending on the course and university. Some of the requirements include:
* Submit a bachelor's degree with a good GPA
* Provide an English language certificate at least at IELTS level 6.5
* Taking entrance exams such as GRE if required and providing a high score
Submit a proposal or research plan for research-based fields (if necessary)
* Providing academic transcripts and letter of recommendation
Studying a PhD in New Zealand
The typical duration of this course is 3 to 4 years of full-time study and includes a minimum of 360 credits at level 10 (the highest level of education in New Zealand). The entry requirement is a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with honours (with a specified grade and research experience) or an internationally recognised equivalent. There are three types of PhDs in New Zealand:
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) : It is entirely based on the presentation of a thesis.
Named Doctorate : A combination of training and thesis.
Higher Doctorate : Awarded to individuals with at least 10 years of scientific work experience and extensive international publications.
The thesis is assessed by at least two external examiners (one of whom must be from outside New Zealand) and graduates must demonstrate the ability to design research, make judgements on complex issues and advance knowledge. The student's progress is monitored and the final assessment is carried out by a high-level expert committee.
The following are some of the requirements for studying in New Zealand for a PhD:
* Have a master's degree in a related field
* Demonstrate research ability and experience
* Submit a detailed research proposal
Demonstrate proficiency in English at least at IELTS level 7.
* Provide academic letters of recommendation that confirm your research abilities
Cost of studying in New Zealand
The cost of studying in New Zealand varies depending on the level, field of study, and university you are studying at. The table below shows the tuition fees for various levels of study in New Zealand for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The cost of living in New Zealand is also part of the cost of studying in this country, which varies depending on the city and lifestyle of the individual. However, in general, the annual cost of living in this country is estimated to be between 18,000 and 27,000 New Zealand dollars (between 10,510 and 15,760 US dollars). The monthly cost of living for one person in New Zealand (excluding rent) is estimated to be 1,050 US dollars.
Scholarships in New Zealand
With its world-class universities, New Zealand is an attractive destination for international students. The country offers a variety of scholarships to support students. These scholarships, which are generally awarded by the New Zealand government (such as the NZDS scholarship), universities and some private institutions, can cover part or all of the tuition fees, along with a stipend for living and studying in New Zealand.
Scholarships are often awarded on the basis of academic merit, leadership capacity and community engagement, and competition for them is fierce. Below are some of the New Zealand scholarships for international students.
New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
Funded by the New Zealand Government, these scholarships are for international students wishing to undertake a PhD in New Zealand. The scholarship covers university tuition fees, a living allowance (up to NZ$25,000 (US$14,500 tax-free)) and health insurance cover (up to NZ$600 (US$300) per year) for three years.
Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
The University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship is offered to outstanding international students to study in New Zealand at undergraduate, postgraduate or postgraduate (teaching) levels. It is awarded twice a year (with deadlines of 1 April and 23 October) and includes up to 50 scholarships worth up to NZ$10,000 (US$5,800) each. The main conditions for receiving this scholarship are to have a GPA of at least 6.00 out of 9.00, to receive an offer (conditional or definitive) from the university. Also, this scholarship is not awarded for short-term courses (such as 3-month or 6-month training courses). Your course of study (Masters or PhD) must last at least one academic year.
Victoria University Tongaroa Scholarship
The Tongarewa Scholarship at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, is a partial tuition fee scholarship designed to support and attract international students. It is intended for students who are about to start their undergraduate (first year) or postgraduate (master’s) studies.
The scholarship is worth between NZ$5,000 and NZ$10,000 (US$2,800 and US$5,800) for one academic year as a tuition fee subsidy. In addition, scholarship winners will be guaranteed accommodation in university residences if they meet the registration deadline. Scholarship holders will also act as ambassadors for the university and participate in promotional and marketing events.
The application deadline varies for different semesters of the year. Applicants must have received an offer of admission (conditional or unconditional) from the University of Victoria.
University of Otago International Postgraduate Research Scholarship
The University of Otago International Research Master’s Scholarship is awarded to provide financial support to international students undertaking a thesis-based Masters degree at the University. There are eight awards (two each from the Faculties of Business, Health Sciences, Humanities and Sciences) to eligible students who are undertaking a Masters degree for the first time.
The scholarship benefits include an annual living allowance of NZ$17,172 (US$10,000) and a tuition fee waiver at the approved tuition fee for domestic students for one year. It is important to note that this scholarship only covers part of the tuition fee and applicants must have a strong academic record (generally with A and A+ grades). The application process is done through the eVision portal after admission to the university and there is no specific deadline.
Top Universities in New Zealand
New Zealand has eight top public universities in the QS World University Rankings , which have earned a global reputation for their high standards of teaching and applied research.
Steps for studying in New Zealand
Requirements and documents required to study in New Zealand
With its internationally renowned universities, advanced education system, multicultural environment and focus on practical training, New Zealand is an ideal destination for study migration. The requirements and documents required to study in New Zealand vary depending on the field, university and level of study. However, the general documents required to study in New Zealand are as follows:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
- Valid passport (valid for 3 months beyond your intended period of stay)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or application essay
- 2 letters of recommendation (LOR) from teachers or employers
- Updated resume or CV (especially for graduate students)
- Portfolio (if necessary)
- Birth certificate and passport-sized photos
- Any certificates of extracurricular activities (if any)
- The general requirements for immigration and study in New Zealand are as follows:
Provide a previous academic qualification
• To study an undergraduate degree in New Zealand : You must provide a high school diploma equivalent to a New Zealand high school diploma. Typically, to apply, you must have a minimum GPA of 5 out of 9 in the New Zealand grading system (14 out of 20 in the Iranian grading system).
• To study for a master's degree in New Zealand : A bachelor's degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 5.5 out of 9 (15 out of 20) is required.
•To study for a PhD in New Zealand : It is necessary to have a relevant bachelor's and master's degree with a minimum average of 6 out of 9 (16 out of 20).
Providing an English language certificate
* IELTS language certificate : For undergraduate studies, a minimum overall score of 6 is required, and for graduate studies, a minimum score of 6.5 is required.
* TOEFL (iBT) language proficiency test : For undergraduate studies, a minimum score of 79 to 80 is required, and for graduate studies, a minimum score of 90 to 100 is required.
Depending on the course and university you choose, higher scores may be required to study in New Zealand. Many educational institutions also accept PTE scores , so you should check the website of your chosen institution or university to find out what score is required.
Taking entrance exams
* GRE test : for graduate studies in engineering and technical fields
* GMAT test : for postgraduate studies in management, such as MBA
* UCAT exam : for studying medicine, dentistry and clinical subjects in New Zealand
Meet the age requirements for studying in New Zealand
According to the advice of GO2TR experts regarding the age requirements for studying in New Zealand, the best age to apply for admission to universities and obtain a student visa in this country is under 25 years old for a bachelor's degree, under 35 years old for a master's degree, and under 40 years old for a doctoral degree.
Providing the necessary financial means
Health requirements
Obtaining a New Zealand student visa
Student accommodation and dormitories in New Zealand
International students studying in New Zealand generally have 3 main accommodation options:
- Stay in student residences: These are usually located on or near the university campus. These environments are very social and offer the opportunity to live with many students from all over the world. Rooms are single or double with basic furnishings and in many cases meals are also served in a central dining hall.
- Living with a local family as a “Homestay”: In this case, the student has a room in a suburban house and meals are provided by the host family. Although this option may come with family rules, it provides a rich experience of getting to know the New Zealand culture and lifestyle.
- Renting a private apartment or house with other students: This is usually more cost-effective after you have completed your first semester and are getting to know others, as rental units are often unfurnished and additional costs such as electricity, water and heating are calculated separately. Students can usually find roommates and a place to rent through university notice boards, local newspapers or websites.
“Some universities may require additional documents, such as a letter of motivation or recommendation. Check the university’s website for exact details.”
Best cities to study in New Zealand
New Zealand is a top choice for international students due to its beautiful scenery, peaceful environment and high-quality education system. As an international student, the best city to study in New Zealand depends on your personal preferences, academic goals and lifestyle needs. For example, factors such as access to educational institutions, cost of living, part-time job opportunities, etc. will all influence your choice. Below, we will introduce the best cities to study in New Zealand.
- Auckland : Auckland is often considered one of the top cities in New Zealand to study. The city is home to the University of Auckland, which is ranked in the top 100 in the world by the World University Rankings. Auckland offers a variety of part-time job opportunities for international students, including retail assistants, waiters, and educational administrators. It should be noted, however, that the cost of living in Auckland is slightly higher than in other New Zealand cities.
- Wellington : The city of Wellington is known for its vibrant arts scene and thriving industries. Wellington is a great choice for students interested in the arts, humanities and social sciences. The location of Victoria University of Wellington, one of New Zealand’s top universities, makes Wellington a popular destination for students and students studying in New Zealand. For student life, Wellington offers affordable university accommodation and a variety of part-time job opportunities.
- Christchurch : Christchurch is a beautiful city located on the South Island of New Zealand, where the University of Canterbury offers quality education. International students in Christchurch can find part-time work in fields such as tourism management, research assistant, customer service, etc. to better manage their expenses while living and studying.
- Hamilton : Hamilton is a growing city known for its proximity to Auckland and the Waikato region. The city is renowned for its natural beauty, providing easy access to walking trails, botanical gardens and a variety of water activities for international students.
Student dormitories and residences in Romania
As a student studying in Romania, you can stay in student dormitories in Romania or in private apartments in Romania. Rents depend on the student’s lifestyle. You can rent a room in a house where a family lives. If you stay on campus, you will have to go to nearby restaurants and fast food outlets for food. Housing prices are lower during the summer, when all students return to their cities and countries.
To rent an apartment in Romania, you usually have to pay 50% of the first month’s rent as a commission to the real estate agent when you sign the contract with the landlord. The price of a room on student campuses varies from university to university and ranges from 20 to 50 euros per month. Most students who immigrate to Romania without financial support prefer to live on student campuses.
To reduce the cost of renting housing, you can rent an apartment for all 3 students together. Renting an apartment for a long period (e.g. 6 months) is also affordable. If your study period is long (e.g. 6 years), you can consider buying a house in Romania.
All Romanian universities have dormitories, but priority is given to students who come from cities and towns in Romania. Next priority is given to students who use the country’s scholarships. At least 2 students live in each dormitory room.
Student work in New Zealand
As an international student studying in New Zealand, you can work part-time for up to 25 hours a week during term time and full-time during the mid-term and Christmas and New Year holidays. To be sure, you should check the conditions on your eVisa, passport visa sticker or letter from the Immigration Department. Note that this work permit is only available to students aged 16 and over.
Different categories of students have their own rules. For example, PhD or postgraduate research students have no restrictions on working hours, as long as they continue their studies full-time. Secondary school students (years 12 and 13) can also work up to 25 hours a week with permission from their school and parents. English language students can also get a work permit if they meet certain conditions, including the length of their course and language score.
New Zealand residency requirements through study
In general, there is no direct route to permanent residency and citizenship in New Zealand through student migration, and you will need to apply for permanent residency or citizenship through other means. In fact, if you can convert your student visa to a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) after completing your studies by receiving a valid job offer , you can apply for permanent residency in this country after 2 years. The Post-Study Work Visa is valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the type.
Also, after 5 years of living in New Zealand with a residence visa or permanent residency, you can apply for New Zealand citizenship if you meet the necessary requirements.
Comparing New Zealand with other countries
New Zealand is a popular choice for international students compared to many other countries due to its high-quality education system, supportive learning environment and focus on practical learning. Its universities offer qualifications that are internationally recognised, while its academic environment is competitive. Student work opportunities, clearer pathways to post-study residency and a safe and multicultural society are some of the key advantages of New Zealand. It is a good choice for those looking for a balance between quality of education, quality of life and career prospects.
