BS/MS Admissions in New Zealand
When can I start my studies in New Zealand?
✓February intake: Deadlines October–November
✓July intake: Deadlines April–May
What do I need to get admited?
✓ Bachelor’s: High school + IELTS 6.0
✓ Master’s: Bachelor’s degree + IELTS 6.5
Is IELTS mandatory for admission?
Not always! Exemptions if you:
✓ Studied in English (submit MOI letter)
✓ Are from an English-speaking country
How much does tuition cost?
🇳🇿 New Zealand Study Costs (2025)
✓ Tuition: Domestic NZ$6K–15K | Int’l NZ$25K–50K (Auckland/Otago highest) – Medicine hits NZ$75K.
✓ Living Costs: Rent NZ$600–1.5K (Auckland 2× pricier!) + insurance NZ$500–1K/year.
✓ PhD Perk: Fully funded + NZ$30K avg stipend – apply to supervisors directly!
What financial support is available?
🇳🇿 New Zealand Scholarships (2025)
✓ Top Awards: Manaaki (full tuition + NZ$25K stipend) | NZ Excellence (NZ$10K) | Uni merit grants (Auckland/Otago).
✓ Equity Support: Māori/Pacific grants + rural hardship funds – covers flights/rent!
✓ PhD Goldmine: Fully funded + NZ$30K+ stipends – apply by April 1 for 2026 intake!
Is health insurance required?
🇳🇿 NZ Health Insurance (2025)
✓ Mandatory Coverage: Studentsafe/OrbitProtect (NZ$500–1K/year) – must include medical/repatriation!
✓ Uni Plans: Cheapest option (e.g., Auckland Uni NZ$600) – dental/mental often excluded!
✓ Pro Tip: Under-18s need custodian-approved policy – compare on MoneyHub.co.nz!
What is the Key Advise?
🇳🇿 New Zealand Student Life (2025)
✓ Housing Alert: Secure flats 6+ months early via TradeMe – Auckland $800+, Dunedin $500+.
✓ Kiwi Culture: Learn te reo Māori basics (“kia ora”/”whānau”) – joins powhiri ceremonies respectfully!
✓ Adventure Pass: $60 Student ID = discounts on ferries/hikes to Waiheke/Fiordland!
What is the cost of living?
🇳🇿 NZ Student Budget (2025)
✓ Essentials: Rent NZ$200–500/week (Auckland 2x pricier) | Food NZ$80–150 | Transport NZ$20–50 (student pass).
✓ Extras: Utilities NZ$30–80 + fun NZ$50–150 – use ISIC card for 50% off activities!
✓ Savings Hack: Shop at op-shops for textbooks + MealMate app for cheap groceries!
What are the work opportunities and allowed working hours?
🇳🇿 NZ Work Rules (2025)
✓ Work Hours: 20h/week (full-time in holidays) – IRD number required | Check visa work conditions.
✓ Top Jobs: Uni TA roles ($25–40/hr), tourism (Queenstown ski fields), viticulture (Marlborough).
✓ Post-Study: 1–3 year visa → Residence Visa – Māori language = bonus points!
What are the minimum visa requirements?
🇳🇿 NZ Student Visa (2025)
✓ Essentials: Offer of Place, passport, NZD$20K/year proof, medicals, approved insurance (Studentsafe/OrbitProtect).
✓ Extras: Visa fee ($375), police clearance, custodianship (<18) – *apply 3+ months early!*
✓ Pro Tip: Use INZ’s online portal to track status – offshore apps take longest!
