World-class education in one of the safest, most beautiful countries on Earth. Enjoy 3-year post-study work rights and a clear pathway to permanent residence.
8
World-Ranked Universities
3 Years
Post-Study Work Visa
#1
Peace Index Ranking
NZD 85K+
Avg Graduate Salary
Primary visa for full-time students at NZ educational institutions
Open work visa for graduates to gain work experience
Points-based residence visa for skilled workers
For young people (18-30) from eligible countries
PhD Benefit: International PhD students pay domestic tuition rates (significant savings!)
Auckland
Top Programs: Engineering, Medicine, Business
Dunedin
Top Programs: Medicine, Health Sciences, Science
Wellington
Top Programs: Law, Public Policy, Design
Christchurch
Top Programs: Engineering, Forestry, Science
Palmerston North
Top Programs: Agriculture, Veterinary, Aviation
Auckland
Top Programs: Business, Creative Industries, Health
| Role | Entry Level | Mid Level (5+ years) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | NZD 65,000 - 85,000 | NZD 100,000 - 150,000 |
| Data Scientist | NZD 60,000 - 80,000 | NZD 95,000 - 130,000 |
| Civil Engineer | NZD 55,000 - 70,000 | NZD 85,000 - 120,000 |
| Healthcare Professional | NZD 55,000 - 75,000 | NZD 80,000 - 120,000 |
| Accountant | NZD 50,000 - 65,000 | NZD 75,000 - 110,000 |
| Marketing Manager | NZD 55,000 - 70,000 | NZD 85,000 - 120,000 |
Graduates receive a Post-Study Work Visa of 1-3 years depending on qualification level and study location. Level 7 bachelor's degrees get 3 years, while Level 8+ postgraduate qualifications also get 3 years. This is one of the most generous post-study work rights globally.
Yes! International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled holidays (Christmas, Easter, summer). Students in qualifying postgraduate programs can work full-time throughout their studies.
New Zealand is moderately expensive. Budget NZD 1,250-1,700/month for living costs. Tuition ranges from NZD 22,000-45,000/year for most programs. Auckland is the most expensive city, while smaller cities offer significant savings.
Yes! Students in certain programs (postgraduate study, Bachelor's in specific fields) can bring their partner on a work visa and children on student visas. Partner work visas provide full work rights.
After completing your studies and gaining work experience on a Post-Study Work Visa, you can apply for the Skilled Migrant Category (points-based). NZ qualifications, work experience, and a job offer all contribute points. Processing times are typically 6-12 months.
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Reviewed by
Sproutern Global Mobility Review Team
Reviewers for study abroad, visa, and international career guidance
Last reviewed
March 6, 2026
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Tuition, scholarships, and admissions expectations are checked against public university or scholarship-owner guidance.
Used for directional planning, never as a substitute for a school or government source when hard rules are involved.
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