At a glance
- INZ fee
- From NZD $850
- Length
- Up to 4 years
- Funds for living costs
- NZD $20,000 per year of study (self-funded, 1+ year)
- Work rights
- Up to 25 hrs/week for eligible courses
Figures are from Immigration New Zealand as at 23 October 2026 and change regularly. Always check the official page before applying.
Who it’s for
- Students with an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider
- Students changing course or provider
- Parents planning a child’s study in New Zealand
What INZ looks for
- An offer of place and evidence that tuition fees are paid or will be
- Enough money for living costs, from you or an approved sponsor
- That you are a genuine student, with a study plan that makes sense
- Health and character requirements
Where people go wrong
- Funds that appear suddenly in a bank account without an explanation of their source
- A course that doesn’t connect to your previous study or career
- Leaving the application too late before the course start date
How we help
- Checking your course and provider fit your long-term plan, not just the visa
- Preparing a clear funds and sponsorship pack
- Writing a study plan statement that explains your choices
- Lodging and tracking the application with INZ
Where this fits in your journey
Keshiya began her own journey on a student visa. Choosing the right course now can open a post-study work visa later.
This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration New Zealand makes every visa decision. More in study visas.