Why do so many students want to study in New Zealand?
Before we dive into the entry requirements for international students in New Zealand, it helps to know why this destination is so popular:
Globally recognised universities and polytechnics
Industry-focused courses with strong links to employers
Safe, friendly and multicultural environment
Options to work part-time during studies and apply for post-study work later, depending on your course and visa settings
If you’re serious about your future, choosing to study in New Zealand with IELTS can be a smart move, because IELTS is widely accepted by New Zealand institutions and also supports your student visa application.
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Basic entry requirements for international students in New Zealand
In simple terms, here’s what most international students need to study in New Zealand for more than 3 months:
An offer of place from an approved New Zealand university
Academic eligibility (Class 12 / bachelor’s degree or equivalent, depending on course level)
English language proficiency – usually IELTS Academic or another accepted test
Proof of funds for tuition fees and living costs
Valid passport and recent photographs
Health and character clearance (medical exams, chest X-ray, police clearance, if required)
Genuine intention to study in New Zealand
Approved student visa (typically the Fee-Paying Student Visa for full-time international students)
Medical and travel insurance for your stay
Let’s unpack each of these so you know exactly what to prepare.
What academic qualifications do you need to study in New Zealand?
Academic eligibility depends on the level of course you choose:
For undergraduate (bachelor’s) programs
Most universities and institutes expect:
Completion of Class 12 (or equivalent) from a recognised board
A minimum percentage (varies by university and course, often starting around 60%+ for competitive programs)
Some courses (e.g. Engineering, IT, Nursing, Design) may require specific subjects or portfolios
For postgraduate (master’s) programs
You’ll generally need:
A recognised bachelor’s degree (3 or 4 years, depending on field and university)
Minimum GPA/percentage as per course entry criteria
For MBAs or specialised master’s, some universities may ask for:
Work experience
A CV and statement of purpose
References
Each institution sets its own entry rules, so always check the exact course requirements on the university’s official site or speak to an expert counsellor.
Do you need IELTS to study in New Zealand?
Short answer: Yes – IELTS is one of the safest and most widely accepted tests.
New Zealand universities, institutes of technology and many private training establishments commonly accept IELTS Academic as proof of English proficiency for admission and visa purposes.
Typical IELTS score ranges (may vary by institution)
Undergraduate programs: Often around IELTS 6.0 overall, with no band lower than 5.5 (or as specified by the provider)
Postgraduate programs: Commonly IELTS 6.5 overall, with minimum band requirements
Some courses like Nursing, Teaching or Health Sciences may require higher scores because of professional registration rules.
Choosing to study in New Zealand with IELTS gives you an advantage because:
It is accepted by all New Zealand universities and many pathway providers
It is trusted by Immigration New Zealand for visa applications where English evidence is required
You can later use your IELTS score for work or migration options, if you’re eligible
Financial requirements for international students in New Zealand
Money is a key part of the requirements to study in New Zealand. You need to prove you can pay for tuition and living expenses.
1. Tuition fees
These depend on your course, level and institution. You’ll usually need to:
Show evidence of paid or payable tuition fees (like a fee receipt or invoice) when you apply for your student visa.
2. Living costs
Immigration New Zealand requires proof that you have enough money to live in the country while studying. Currently, for tertiary or non-compulsory study, you must show:
NZD $20,000 per year if you’re studying for 1 year or more
NZD $1,667 per month if your course is shorter than 12 months
You can show funds through:
Your own (or parents’/sponsor’s) bank statements
Education loans
Fixed deposits
Approved sponsorship or scholarships
In some cases, you may be asked to use the Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS), where you transfer the required living-cost amount to a special New Zealand bank account that releases money to you monthly.
3. Outward travel
You must also show that you can leave New Zealand at the end of your stay, either by:
A return/onward air ticket
Extra funds sufficient to buy one
What are the student visa requirements to study in New Zealand?
Most full-time international students apply for the Fee-Paying Student Visa. To be eligible, you generally need to:
Have an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider
Show proof of tuition fees (paid or arrangements to pay)
Provide evidence of funds for living costs (e.g. NZD $20,000 per year for tertiary study)
Meet health requirements – this can include medical examinations and chest X-rays, depending on your stay length and country of origin
Meet character requirements – police clearance certificate where applicable
Show genuine intention to study – your documents and statements must align with a real study plan in New Zealand
Have valid medical and travel insurance for the duration of your stay
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand’s system and pay the visa fee and levies
New Zealand has also improved student visa processing times and moved applications to an enhanced online system, making it smoother for international students applying for intakes in 2025 and beyond.
Can you work while you study in New Zealand?
Yes, many full-time students on a valid student visa can work part-time, depending on their visa conditions and course type. The standard Fee-Paying Student Visa may allow you to:
Work up to 25 hours per week during term time (as per the most recent rule changes)
Work full-time during scheduled holidays, if your course and visa permit
Working part-time can help with living costs and give you a local experience—but you should still show full funds before your visa is granted. Work income is not accepted as proof of funds.
Read more: IELTS score to work in New Zealand
Step-by-step: How do you start your journey to study in New Zealand?
If your goal is to study in New Zealand with IELTS, here’s a simple roadmap:
Research courses and universities: Choose your level (UG/PG), subject and preferred city.
Check course requirements: Academic scores, subject prerequisites, portfolio (if needed).
Book and prepare for IELTS: Aim for a score that meets or exceeds the entry requirements of your target institutions.
Gather documents: Academic transcripts, passport, CV, SOP, references, work-experience letters (for some PG/MBA courses).
Apply to institutions: Receive your Offer of Place.
Arrange funds and pay tuition deposit: Secure your financial proofs and fee receipts.
Apply for the student visa online: Upload documents, pay fees and levy, complete health and character checks.
Book flights and insurance: Once your visa is granted, plan your arrival and accommodation.
If you’re serious about your dream to study in New Zealand, your next best step is simple: pick your course, plan your IELTS score target, and start organising your documents and finances. The clearer your preparation, the smoother your visa journey will be.