World-ranked universities
All eight New Zealand universities rank in the top 3% worldwide, with the University of Auckland in the global top 100, and every qualification is internationally recognised.
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New Zealand
Study in New Zealand
World-class education in a safe, welcoming country with a stunning natural environment. Eight internationally ranked universities, work rights while you study and a post-study work visa, with AMET's Auckland team on the ground.
8universities, all ranked in the world's top 500
50,000+international students
150+nationalities on campus
3 yearspost-study work visa (up to)
Why study in New Zealand?
A unique blend of academic excellence, breathtaking landscapes and a welcoming multicultural society, at a smaller scale that puts students first.
Safe and peaceful
New Zealand consistently ranks among the world's safest and least corrupt countries, with a stable democracy and low crime rate.
Work rights, during and after
Work part-time while you study and full-time in holidays, then apply for a post-study work visa of up to three years after a Level 7+ qualification.
Outstanding quality of life
Mountains, fjords, beaches and compact cities: New Zealand's clean environment and outdoor lifestyle are hard to match anywhere.
A welcoming culture
An inclusive society where international students feel at home, with Māori culture adding a unique dimension to campus life, and pastoral care standards set by law.
Research with impact
New Zealand universities lead in agricultural science, marine biology, engineering and environmental research, with strong industry connections.
New Zealand's eight universities
New Zealand has exactly eight publicly funded universities. Every one is ranked in the QS World University Rankings top 500 and offers internationally accredited qualifications.
New Zealand's largest and highest-ranked university, research-intensive and consistently in the global top 100, with world-class law, medicine, engineering and business.
45,000+ students8 faculties
Ask about AucklandNew Zealand's first university, renowned for health sciences, medicine, dentistry and pharmacy, in a lively student city.
21,000+ studentsHealth sciences hub
Ask about OtagoA leading research university in the capital, known for law, public policy, international relations and the creative arts.
22,000+ studentsTop law school
Ask about Victoria University of WellingtonWidely regarded as New Zealand's top engineering and science university, with modern research facilities and industry partnerships.
16,000+ studentsEngineering focus
Ask about CanterburyA young, dynamic university with an applied and professional focus: business, IT, creative arts, health and hospitality.
28,000+ students3 campuses
Ask about Auckland University of TechnologyLeads in veterinary science, agriculture, design and aviation, with three campuses and strong distance learning.
35,000+ studentsVeterinary leader
Ask about Massey UniversityRecognised for management, computing and environmental studies, with a growing reputation for Māori development and sustainability.
12,000+ studentsSustainability focus
Ask about WaikatoA specialist land-based university near Christchurch: agriculture, horticulture, environmental management and commerce, with small classes.
3,000+ studentsAgriculture leader
Ask about Lincoln UniversityPopular fields of study
New Zealand universities offer world-leading programmes across many disciplines, with particular strengths in these areas. Pick one and tell us what you have in mind.
Medicine and health sciencesEngineering and technologyBusiness and managementEnvironmental scienceLaw and public policyCreative arts and designVeterinary scienceAgriculture and horticultureComputer science and ITBiomedical scienceAviation and tourismArchitectureData science and analyticsMarine biologyFilm and mediaPharmacy and dentistryArtificial intelligenceSurveying and spatial science
New Zealand student visas
International students need a visa issued by Immigration New Zealand. These are the main pathways; AMET prepares and lodges the application with you.
Fee Paying Student Visa
For full-time courses longer than three months. Allows part-time work during study (currently up to 25 hours a week for eligible tertiary students) and full-time work in scheduled holidays.
Post Study Work Visa
Graduates of Level 7 (bachelor's) or higher qualifications can apply for an open work visa of up to three years, working anywhere in New Zealand for any employer.
Partner and dependent child visas
Partners of students in eligible Level 7+ programmes may qualify for an open work visa, and dependent children can attend New Zealand schools.
Estimated study and living costs
Approximate annual figures in New Zealand dollars. Tuition varies by programme and university; your counsellor will confirm exact fees for the courses you shortlist.
| Expense | Estimated annual cost (NZD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate tuition | $22,000 – $35,000 | Varies by programme and university |
| Postgraduate tuition | $26,000 – $45,000 | Higher for medicine, law and MBAs |
| Accommodation | $10,000 – $18,000 | Halls of residence or a city apartment |
| Food and groceries | $4,000 – $8,000 | Self-catering keeps costs down |
| Transport | $1,500 – $3,000 | Public transport with student concessions |
| Health and travel insurance | $600 – $900 | Mandatory for all international students |
| Books and supplies | $800 – $1,500 | Digital resources widely available |
| Personal and leisure | $2,000 – $5,000 | Entertainment, travel and personal expenses |
| Total estimate | $41,000 – $75,000 | Tuition plus living costs, per year |
Funds for your visa
NZD $20,000 a year
The living-cost amount Immigration New Zealand asks tertiary students to show on top of tuition, through bank statements, scholarships or a sponsor letter. Check the current figure with your counsellor before you apply.
Admission requirements
Requirements vary by university and programme; these are the standard requirements for international applicants.
- Academic qualificationsUndergraduate: completion of Year 12/13 or equivalent. Postgraduate: a bachelor's degree, typically with a minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 depending on the programme.
- English language proficiencyIELTS 6.0–7.0 overall (no band below 5.5–6.0), TOEFL iBT 80–100 or PTE Academic 50–65. Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test.
- Financial evidenceProof of funds covering tuition fees plus living costs, through bank statements, scholarships or a sponsor letter.
- Health requirementsA medical or chest X-ray may be required depending on your country and length of stay, and health and travel insurance is mandatory.
- Statement of purposeA personal statement explaining your academic background, career goals and reasons for choosing New Zealand.
- Letters of recommendationPostgraduate applicants usually need two to three academic or professional references; research programmes may ask for a proposal.
- Valid passport and offerA passport valid for at least three months beyond your stay, and an offer of place from your university for the visa application.
- Good characterImmigration New Zealand assesses character as part of the student visa; police clearance certificates may be required from some countries.
How to apply, step by step
Most programmes start in February, with a second intake in July. Start six to nine months ahead to allow time for your offer, funds and the visa.
AMET's Auckland office and our counsellors worldwide handle every step below at no cost to you.
- 1Research and choose your programme
Compare universities, programmes, fees and locations against your career goals.
- 2Check entry requirements
Confirm academic prerequisites, English requirements and any extra documents for your programme.
- 3Prepare your application
Transcripts, English test scores, statement of purpose, references and financial evidence, certified where required.
- 4Submit through AMET
We lodge your application with the university and follow it through to a decision.
- 5Receive your offer of place
Review the conditions and pay your tuition deposit to secure your place.
- 6Apply for your student visa
Lodge online with Immigration New Zealand with your offer, financial evidence and health and character documents.
- 7Arrange accommodation and travel
Book your accommodation, insurance and flights, and plan for orientation week.
- 8Arrive and begin your studies
Attend orientation, enrol in courses and use the student support services New Zealand universities are known for.
Ready to study in New Zealand?
AMET's counsellors have more than three decades of experience placing students at New Zealand's universities. Let us guide you every step of the way.
Got a question about studying in New Zealand?
Tell us a little about your plans and a counsellor from AMET's Auckland team will get back to you within one working day.
Enquiry sentThanks for contacting AMET. A counsellor will reply within one working day.