Guide to navigating the New Zealand student visa process in 2025

Fee-Paying Student Visa

The Fee-Paying Student Visa is the most common type for international students heading to New Zealand. This is the primary New Zealand student visa you’ll need to apply for if you intend to study full-time in the country.

To be eligible, you will typically need an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider, evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses, and to meet health and character requirements. This student visa allows you to study full-time and, in certain cases, work up to 20 hours part-time during your studies and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Pathway Student Visa

If you're planning to pursue multiple qualifications in New Zealand, the Pathway Student Visa might be a more suitable option. With this student visa, you can study up to three consecutive programmes over a maximum of five years, streamlining the process of transitioning between different courses. You can also work part-time up to 20 hours per week while studying and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Offer of place from an approved education provider

The first step in the New Zealand student visa application process is to secure an offer of place from an educational institution recognized by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). For example, if you plan to study in Auckland, you will need to obtain an offer letter from esteemed institutions like the University of Auckland. This letter should state the minimum course duration, total tuition fee and whether the tuition fee is in domestic or foreign currency.

Regardless of the university you attend, ensure the course you choose aligns with your academic goals and career aspirations.

Evidence of funds

Another key part is demonstrating that you have sufficient income to cover your degree tuition fees and the cost of accommodations during your stay in New Zealand. As for how much funds are needed for a New Zealand student visa, the cost of it will depend on the length of your studies and your chosen location. That is why it is important to do your due research on how much your dream degree costs.

The current estimated living costs are NZ$15,000 per year. If the course duration is under 36 weeks, then the living costs are estimated at around NZ$1,250 per month. To verify your funds, you may be required to provide bank statements, proof of scholarship or a financial undertaking document, which proves that a sponsor will cover your accommodation and living costs during your stay.

In some cases, you might also need to produce evidence that you will be leaving the country after the completion of your course.

Health and character requirements

Meeting New Zealand's health and character standards is crucial for a successful New Zealand student visa application. These requirements ensure the well-being of both the applicant and the New Zealand community. Here's what you need to know:

Medical requirements

You will generally need to undergo a medical examination by a doctor approved by Immigration New Zealand. The specific tests required may vary depending on your country of origin, the length of your intended stay, and your planned activities in New Zealand. Some common medical tests include:

• Chest X-ray: To check for conditions such as tuberculosis (TB). If you are a citizen of a country with a relatively high incidence of TB or been in that country recently, you will need to be tested for the disease.

• Blood tests: To screen for infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis.

• Physical examination: To assess your overall health and identify any potential medical conditions that may affect your eligibility for a student visa.

Character requirements

If you are aged 17 years and over and plan to study in New Zealand for more than two years, you are also required to provide police clearance certificates from any country where you've lived for 12 months or more, in the past 10 years. This helps demonstrate that you have a good character and don't pose a risk to New Zealand's safety and security. Here are a few important factors to take into account:

• Get an early start: The medical and police clearance processes can take time, so it's best to start them as soon as you receive your offer of place.

• Fill out your declarations with complete honesty: It's crucial to be completely honest and transparent in your medical and character declarations. Providing false or misleading information can lead to your visa being declined or even cancelled.

• Don’t be afraid to seek guidance: If you have any concerns or questions about the health and character requirements for the New Zealand student visa application process, don't hesitate to seek advice from an IDP education counsellor or consult the official New Zealand Immigration website for further information.

Online application

Once you have all the necessary documents, you can submit your student visa application online through the New Zealand Immigration website. The application will require personal details, information about your chosen course, and necessary supporting documents. You can find more information via the IDP Live App, or even get free personalised step-by-step guidance and support throughout this process from a professional.

Visa interview (if required)

In some cases, you may be called for an interview at a New Zealand visa application centre. The interview is an opportunity for immigration officials to assess your genuine intention to study and your understanding of the program you've chosen. Prepare for the interview by reviewing your application and being ready to answer questions about your study plans and future goals.

Country-specific requirements

While the general steps for a New Zealand student visa application remain consistent, certain country-specific requirements or procedures can add another layer to the process. Familiarising yourself with these nuances early on can help you streamline your application and avoid potential setbacks.

Let's explore some specific examples:

Philippines

Additional Documents: You may need to provide additional documents such as a National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance, a transcript of records, and a diploma.

Vietnam

Pre-Visa Assessment: Vietnamese applicants may be required to undergo a Pre-Visa Assessment (PVA) before submitting their student visa application. This assessment evaluates your academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and financial capacity to ensure you are well-prepared for studying in New Zealand.

Proof of Relationship: If you have family members residing there, you might need to provide evidence of your relationship with them. This helps immigration officials assess your ties to New Zealand and your intentions for staying in the country.

Indonesia

Sponsorship: In some cases, Indonesian students might need to provide evidence of sponsorship from a family member or other source. This demonstrates that you have financial support during your studies in New Zealand. This reassures immigration officials that you have financial backing during your studies, easing any concerns about your ability to support yourself.

English language proficiency

As English is the primary language of instruction in New Zealand, demonstrating your proficiency is a key New Zealand student visa requirement. You'll typically need to achieve a minimum score in an approved English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

The specific score required can vary based on your chosen course and institution. For instance, if you are aiming to study in Wellington, and at a top university such as the Victoria University of Wellington, you might need an IELTS overall band score of 6.0 or higher, with no individual band score below 6.0 at undergraduate level. On the other hand, some undergraduate programs or vocational courses may accept a lower IELTS score.

If you are using qualifying via an IELTS score and are taking it on computer, all New Zealand universities now accept IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR), which gives you a risk-free, second chance at meeting the language requirements for your application. This means that if you did not achieve your desired score in one of the four test sections (Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking) during your initial test with IELTS on Computer, you will be able to reattempt it within 60 days.

The OSR is also accepted by the New Zealand government for visa purposes. With this second chance, it offers you an even better chance of achieving your study goals by improving your performance in a specific skill area.

You can prepare for your IELTS test with the IELTS by IDP app and enjoy a convenient, hassle-free experience. As co-owners of IELTS, IDP offers a wide range of test dates and locations, comprehensive official preparation materials, and even online results delivery in as fast as 1 to 2 days, to help you achieve your dream IELTS band score.

Remember, different courses and institutions may have specific English language requirements, so it's crucial to check these early on during your New Zealand student visa application process. Give yourself ample time to prepare for the IELTS test, ensuring you're well-equipped to meet the necessary standards!

Apply early

It's highly advised that you start and submit your student visa application well in advance of your intended start date. Processing times can vary, and applying early allows for any unforeseen delays. The recommended submission period is 3 months in advance.

Complete documentation

Ensure all required documents are included in your application and that they are accurate and complete. For starters, you must ensure that your passport has a validity of at least three months after your intended stay in New Zealand. Do also have your relevant transcripts, certificates, Student Visa Application form and proof of application fee payment ready. Any missing or incorrect information can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.

Genuine intention to study

Clearly articulate your reasons for choosing to study in New Zealand, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to your chosen course.

Studying in New Zealand offers a unique opportunity to gain a world-class education while immersing yourself in a stunning natural environment and vibrant culture. While the process of applying for student visas might seem daunting, all you need is careful planning and the right support.

You’ll find personalised, free advice with IDP, a leader in global education services with extensive experience in helping students navigate the New Zealand student visa process. Our overseas education placement consultants will help you through each step, including selecting your course, application assistance, visa guidance, and pre-departure support. With IDP’s help, you can achieve your dream of studying in New Zealand.

Ready to take the next step in your study abroad journey? Book a free counselling session with IDP today, and let us guide you every step of the way.