Applying for an New Zealand student visa

Before you apply

If you want to take one short course in New Zealand for less than 3 months you don't need a student visa but can apply for visitor visa (provided the course is approved by the NZQA). For NZQA-approved courses see: www.nzqa.govt.nz

Australian citizens do not need a visa or permit to study in New Zealand. Most other overseas students need a visa or permit to study full time in New Zealand. If you want to study in New Zealand for longer than 3 months you will need a student visa or permit.

You will have to meet certain requirements for health, English language skills and character before you are considered for a student visa.

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/study/canistudyinnewzealand/

How to apply

To get a student visa, you need to have an offer of a place from a New Zealand education provider. The offer must include:

• Whether you are studying full-time or part-time
• The name of the course and the time required for completing it
• Proof that the course and course provider meet New Zealand's requirements for international students
• Details of course fees

Apply as early as possible. It takes a minimum of six weeks to process a student visa; in some countries it may be longer.

Full details of visa and permit requirements, and advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying are available through the New Zealand Immigration Service website:http://www.immigration.govt.nz

Cost of Studying

Studying in New Zealand is cost competitive compared with other countries. Undergraduate study can cost about NZ$18,000?$25,000 a year, depending on your course. Postgraduate courses may cost up to NZ$40,000 a year. Fees will cover:

• Government Service Tax (GST)
• registration and enrolment
• student health and counselling
• language support
• use of most campus facilities

Cost of Living

The cost of living in New Zealand is similar to that in Australia, and less than in Britain. Higher education students can expect to spend up to NZ$20,000 (USD 14,000) per year on living expenses with most accommodation costing $100 to $200 a week.

See http://www.emigratenz.org/cost-of-living-in-new-zealand.html for more detailed information.