Education in New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand as a visitor
If you are in New Zealand as a visitor, you may take a single course of study that lasts less than three months, without needing a student permit. If you want to take more than one course, and/or study for longer than three months, you can apply for a student permit while you are in New Zealand
Going to New Zealand to study If you are outside New Zealand and planning to study full time for more than three months, you will need a student visa and a student permit.
Application requirements
Application forms are available from your nearest official New Zealand representative office and from education agents.
To get a student visa and permit, you have to be enrolled in an approved course at an accredited institution.
You application will require:
- A recent passport-size photograph.
- Payment of a non-refundable application fee.
- An 'Offer of Place' from an educational institution which states that you have been accepted by the institution, the name of the course, the minimum time required to complete the course and the course fee details. This 'Offer of Place' will be sent to you by the New Zealand institution that confirms your enrolment.
- Evidence of payment of the fee or exemption from the fee. (Not necessary if your application is being approved in principle.)
- A written guarantee from a New Zealand education institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand.
- Evidence of sufficient funds to live on while you are studying.
- A return air ticket to your country, or evidence of sufficient funds to buy one.
- For courses longer than 24 months, you'll also have to provide medical and x-ray certificates that are less than three months old, and a police certificate to show that you are of good character.
If your application is approved, your passport must be valid for three months after your planned date of departure from New Zealand.
