New Zealand Student Visa Guide
Explore student visa requirements, types, fees, application process and eligibility for studying abroad
Explore student visa requirements, types, fees, application process and eligibility for studying abroad
On this Page:
New Zealand is the sixth most preferred country among Indian students. As per the Ministry of Home Affairs, 7,300 Indian students were recorded in New Zealand in 2024. The number of New Zealand study visas is growing daily because of its affordability and top-notch education. However, recent changes announced by the New Zealand immigration office have affected the number of applications from India. Missing out on these updates could lead to choosing a course that might impact your plans of settling abroad. So, keep reading to stay informed and ensure you don’t make any mistakes during your visa application process.
The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) has classified different levels of education in New Zealand. The changes have affected these levels, so, let’s understand these levels before learning about the recent changes.
This level includes basic education provided to students aged around 15. In the Indian education system, this equates to students from first to tenth standard.
Students pursuing a diploma or vocational courses are similar to students pursuing a diploma after the tenth standard in India.
At this level, you’ll find the students enrolled in Advanced Certificates (vocational qualifications) and Higher Certificates (often awarded by Institutes of Technology). It is similar to diploma courses students pursue after the twelfth standard.
This is the most common level that students enroll in from India. This level includes courses like Hotel Management and Polytechnic programs. The course duration is 3 years and even MBBS is classified under this category.
As the name suggests, this level includes Honours Bachelor's Degrees and higher diplomas. The validity of these courses is one to four years designed to add more value to the existing qualification.
Post-graduation programs that students pursue after graduation and this level even include the research course excluding PhDs.
The highest level in the Irish education system, Level 10 represents the PhDs and other doctoral-level courses. These programs require 3-4 years of original research. The Irish government favors this level and you can avail of a scholarship easily.
These changes were announced on Aug 21, 2024, and will take effect from October 1, 2024. If you apply before October 1, you can avoid these changes and save some money, which could be used for other expenses.
The immigration office will double the application fee from ₹19,742 to ₹39,483 impacting many Indian students. However, the good news is that university tuition fees will remain unaffected.
To apply for a student visa, it’s compulsory to apply 3 months before the course date. You can apply early, but late applications are not acceptable.
Some students choose Level 4-5 courses to avoid financial burden on the family. However, from October 1 these students will no longer be eligible for a post-study work visa. Additionally, students with bachelor’s degrees will be granted a post-study work visa with a validity of 2 years. For master’s students, the visa will be valid for 3 years, only if their course is 30 weeks long.
Earlier dependent visa was allowed on a student visa, but, the new announcements have brought changes. The students belonging to the Level 4-5 can’t bring in dependants along with them.
Now that you’re familiar with the Irish education system, let’s learn about different types of student visas, focusing on those most commonly preferred by students after higher education.
This visa is for students who wish to pursue full-time courses at institutions approved by the Irish immigration office. The duration of these courses is typically 4 years, although the exact duration may vary depending on your chosen program. With this visa, students are allowed to work 20 hours per week.
If you want to pursue multiple courses consecutively then apply for this visa. New Zealand Pathway student visa are valid for 5 years and allow students to work 20 hours per week. However, this visa requires proof of substantial funds for approval.
Some institutions provide a student exchange program in collaboration with the New Zealand institutions. This program allows students to explore Ireland for 12 months. It is available to a limited number of students from each country.
For those interested in an exchange program, this visa allows you to experience studying in New Zealand for 12 months. It is available to a limited number of students from each country, providing an opportunity to explore and gain new experiences.
| Visa Type | Duration | Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fee Paying Student Visa |
Up to 4 years |
Broad eligibility criteria, allow part-time working hours of 20hrs/week |
Students of Level 4-5 are not eligible for a post-study work visa. |
₹39, 483* |
|
Pathway Student Visa |
Up to 5 years |
Can take up to three courses at a time. |
Require proof of substantial funds for approval |
₹39, 483* |
|
Exchange Student Visa |
Up to 12 months |
International experience |
Limited to exchange programs |
₹39, 483* |
Note: This table consists of data as of Aug 2024.
*As announced by the Irish immigration office on August 21, 2024, the new visa application fees will take effect from October 1, 2024.
New Zealand student visa is pretty straightforward, but it’s good to start at least six months before the session begins. In gathering all the required documents it takes around three months and the visa application is accepted three months before the travel date.
A passport comes first in the list of required documents for the visa application. The visa application says that your visa should have a validity period longer than the course duration.
A letter declaring your confirmation of admission to a recognized university. Every university has its eligibility criteria and procedure, so, refer to their respective websites for more information.
The minimum IELTS band requirement for the New Zealand study visa is 6.0. However, top universities may ask for a higher score between 7.0 and 8.0. You can appear for other English Proficiency tests, such as PTE, and TOEFL after checking the eligibility criteria of the university.
Prepare documents that provide proof of funds to cover your tuition fees or a scholarship letter confirming financial support. Document relevant to the sponsor’s source of income, proving they can cover your living expenses in New Zealand.
During travel to an international country travel and medical insurance are mandatory. You are required to show the documents proving that you have obtained the medical and travel insurance to cover your medical expenses during the stay.
Even though you have submitted your educational certificates during the admission, carry them to the interview. The interviewer mostly asks for them to verify their authenticity.
Want to learn more about the New Zealand visa requirements? Go through; Understand New Zealand Study Visa Requirements for Indian Students.
Applying for a New Zealand student visa can be done online through their official portal. To fill out the application you can follow these steps:
Translate all your documents into English and get them scanned. Having all the documents ready in digital format will help in the fast application process.
Open the visa application tab, and fill in the requested information. As you proceed, at the end of the application you will receive a tracking number for your visa application.
Use net banking, or a credit/debit card to pay the application fee. Make sure this is done promptly, any delay might impact your visa approval.
Biometrics are usually submitted during the interview, but, keep a check on the mail. They might ask you to visit the visa office to collect the biometric data.
Once your documents are verified, you will be called for the visa interview. Properly dress up and speak confidently during the interview.
For details, Easy Steps with Pictures to Apply for Student Visa New Zealand.
The student visa cost for New Zealand is around ₹27 Lakh. Below is a breakdown of the cost:
The estimated total for a New Zealand student visa is ₹27,37,237; but, the final amount may vary depending on the university and course you choose.
Common interview questions and answers for New Zealand student visa, you may encounter these questions during your interview.
This opening question aims to get to know you and is used to set the tone of the conversation.
This question assesses your motivation, understanding of the course, and confidence in your choice.
Family ties are important for a visa application and the interviewer uses it to evaluate your intent to return home. Students with weak connections may face challenges and even lose a chance to study abroad.
Sponsors support your stay in New Zealand thus, the interviewer checks for their stability and sufficient income to cover your expenses in New Zealand.
This question examines your level of commitment and interest in studying in New Zealand.
Mention your previous rejection history, and explain the reason behind it. You can use this question to express your strong desire to study in New Zealand and your commitment to securing the visa. A positive attitude can make a favorable impression.
Your New Zealand study visa journey begins with understanding the above information. As of 2024, several changes may impact the student visa process, presenting new challenges. GyanDhan can help you embrace these changes by providing the right guidance and helping you navigate the financial aid options. Check out the available scholarships and transform your journey into a seamless transition. Remember, the future belongs to those who plan today!
Yes, if you have studied in New Zealand for 30 weeks, you can apply for a post-study work visa, with a validity of 3 years.
The difficulty level is moderate however, you must meet basic eligibility criteria, but cannot apply for PR until you have completed 5 years of residency in New Zealand.
New Zealand student visa allows students to work 20 hours/week and are eligible for a post-study work visa after completing their studies.
The minimum PTE (Pearson Test of English) score required for a New Zealand study visa is 43 and 50.
Level 7 in New Zealand refers to an undergraduate degree or diploma in New Zealand.
The visa processing time is approximately 4 weeks or 20 working days after the interview.
In 2023, the rejection rate was 40% and with new changes, the rejection rate might go up. If you want to avoid this pitfall, consider reviewing; Indian Students and New Zealand Student Visa Rejection Rate.
New Zealand universities accept a maximum of 2 years of gap. In some universities, they accept a gap of more than 2 years.
