Study In New Zealand

Requirements to Study Visa

To qualify to apply for a student visa for New Zealand following requirements must be met by the applicant:

•     1 photo if you apply online, or 2 photos if you use a paper application form. Photos must be in accordance to the prescribed standards.
•     Your passport which must be valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave NZ.

Letter of Acceptance: An offer letter from the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) which states the minimum course duration and course fee is a pre-requisite to be able to apply to study in NZ.

Proof of Sufficient Funds: To be able to apply for student visa, student must provide proof that he has enough funds to pay for his/her educational expenses, living expenses and also incur the travel costs for entire stay in New Zealand.

You need to show you have one of the following:

•     NZD$15,000 for your first year of study
•     NZD$1250 for each month if your programme of study is less than 36 months
•     A scholarship, such as a New Zealand Aid Programme scholarship, or
•     A sponsor or family member who's agreed to accept financial responsibility for you while you're in NZ.

Immigration Medical Examination: In order to apply for student visa for New Zealand it is mandatory to show you are in good health. A Medical Certificate from state hospitals authorized by NZQA has to be acquired.

You need to have a chest x-ray, a medical examination or both as proof of your good health.

Character: You may need to provide police certificates as proof of your good character. Discuss with your Visa Counsellor for details.

Medical and Travel Insurance: Full medical and travel insurance is obligatory for all fee paying students in NZ. Your insurance policy must cover you from the date that you arrive in New Zealand until the day you leave.

Accommodation: A written document from an institution or person that states that the student has suitable accommodation arranged within New Zealand.

Onward Travel: You must have a ticket to leave New Zealand or be sponsored for the cost of your onward travel

Academic Credentials and Proof of English proficiency

Work Opportunities

Work While You Study

•      International students enrolled in a full-time study program (at least 1.5 years to 2 years long) are allowed to work upto 20 Hrs each week during          academic year.
•      They can work full-time, 40 hrs a week during summer holidays/ vacations.
•      Spouse of post graduate students or students undertaking courses listed in immediate or long term skill shortage can accompany the student on a work          permit.

Post Study Work Opportunities

•      After completion of course if student doesn`t have a job in hand he/she is eligible to apply for a 1 year graduate job search visa.
•      If student has an employment related to the field of study (advanced diploma or PG diploma in 1 year or diploma for 2 years) he/she can apply for 2 to 3          year work visa.
•      International students graduating from a course in New Zealand would gain points under the Skilled Migrant Category if their course covers any area          mentioned in the list.
•      They are also eligible (on a case to case basis) for waiver of 2 years past work experience for longer term work visas.

Educational Opportunities

•      Universities
•      Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs)
•      Private Training Establishments (PTEs)
•      English Language Programme Providers
•      Schools