To study in New Zealand, this information will help you decide which class of student visa you need.
You need to plan your study, work out how you will support yourself in NZ and check which documents you need to provide with your application before you start with it.
Planning before you apply
- You will have to be accepted for a course
at a reputed education institute approved by the Ministry of Education or the New Zealand Qualifications Authority or NZQA. - You have to qualify for a proof that you have a scholarship that pays your fees or money for your tuition fees.
- You will have to have the proof for enough money to live while you are on students visa in New Zealand.
- You also need to have an evidence that you have enough money to buy one or a ticket out of NZ.
Study Fees
As international students most people who come to NZ to study pays their full fees.
Domestic students
Your fees are usually less if you qualify as a domestic student but you will still need to have a student visa.
Criteria for domestic student
- Under a government-approved exchange program studying at a primary or secondary school.
- As your parent or legal guardian is here on a student or work visa studying at primary or secondary school in NZ.
- Studying for a PhD.
Paying for your living expenses
You need to show you have one of the following in order to support yourself while you study in NZ:
- For your first year of study you need NZD$15,000
- If your program of study is less than 36 months you need NZD$1250 for each month.
- Such as that of New Zealand Aid Program scholarship you need to have one.
- While you are in NZ a sponsor or family member who has agreed to accept financial responsibility.
Health insurance
You need approved medical and travel insurance if you are a fee paying student. To get help with arranging medical and travel insurance contact your education provider.
Students aged 9 or younger
The international students should have the following if they are 9 or younger:
- They should have a legal guardian or a parent living with them
- One who is living in school hostel that is approved by NZQA.
Documents required
The following are the documents as part of the visa application process for candidates who are looking to apply for their New Zealand Student Visa:
- Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your period of stay in New Zealand so your passport should be valid.
- Completed Student Visa Application Form
- Payment Receipt of the Application fee
- From a New Zealand institute or university, you need to have an offer of a place. After the tuition fees have been received, the forms are mainly issued.
- Your status conformation as a study abroad student with the letter from your current institution.
- Receipt of your health insurance
- To prove that your intention of staying in New Zealand is genuine, you may be required to show Health and Character certificates.
- Two passport-sized photographs
There might be a requirement for additional documentation. Additional documents might be requested by the interviewer during personal interview. These are the documents that prove of your financial status.
- From the schools you have attended you need the transcripts, degrees, certificates, or diplomas.
- Scores from tests that your college required, such as TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT scores