BlueZone / Study destinations / Study in New Zealand
Study in New Zealand: visa, costs, universities and post-study work for Pakistani students
A researched guide with 2026 figures from official and industry sources. Last verified 29 September 2026.
Book free counsellingWhy Pakistani students choose New Zealand
- Eight state universities, all in the world rankings, with smaller classes and hands-on teaching.
- One of the safest countries in the world, with a friendly, outdoor lifestyle.
- Degree-level graduates can apply for an open Post Study Work Visa.
- Lower living pressure than the biggest cities elsewhere, with cities like Dunedin and Hamilton.
Step by step: from offer to visa
- Get an offer of placeApply to an approved provider and accept the offer.
- Pay tuition as requiredThe provider tells you what must be paid before the visa.
- Arrange funds and insuranceNZ$20,000 per year for living, plus approved medical and travel insurance.
- Get medical and police certificatesNeeded for longer courses. A chest X-ray may also be asked for.
- Apply online with Immigration NZCreate a RealMe login, upload documents and pay the fee.
What it costs (2026)
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fee Paying Student Visa | About NZ$850 | Sources differ, so check the INZ fee page on the day you apply. |
| Living funds to show | NZ$20,000 per year | Or NZ$1,667 per month for courses under a year. |
| Tuition | Set by each institution | Must be paid or shown as required by your offer. |
| Medical and travel insurance | Varies | Approved cover is required for your whole stay. |
| Post Study Work Visa | NZ$1,670 | Plus you show NZ$5,000 in funds when you apply. |
Fees change often. Always confirm on the official government page before you pay.
Popular universities in New Zealand
| University | Known for |
|---|---|
| University of Auckland | Top-ranked in NZ, wide range, engineering and business |
| University of Otago | Health sciences, medicine, dentistry |
| Victoria University of Wellington | Law, policy, arts and design |
| University of Canterbury | Engineering, science and forestry |
| Massey University | Agriculture, veterinary science, aviation |
| University of Waikato | Management, computing and law |
| Lincoln University | Agriculture and land-based sciences |
| AUT | Business, technology and communication |
Check the latest QS or THE rankings and subject rankings for your course.
Work rights, English and after graduation
- Many degree students can work up to 20 hours per week in term time, and 25 hours has been reported for 2026. Your visa label shows your exact limit.
- Full-time work is allowed in scheduled holidays for most visas.
- Post Study Work Visa: up to 3 years for degree-level graduates, and shorter for lower levels.
- English: IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 for most degrees.
Scholarships and funding
- Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships (government-funded, check the eligible-country list).
- University and faculty scholarships, often for postgraduate research.
- PhD stipends at NZ universities.
- Fees and deadlines change, so confirm with each provider.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a NZ student visa cost?
The Fee Paying Student Visa is reported at NZ$850 for 2026. Some websites still show older fees, so check the Immigration New Zealand fee page before you pay.
How much money must I show?
NZ$20,000 for each year of study for living costs, or NZ$1,667 per month for courses under a year, plus tuition and return travel.
Can I work while studying?
Most degree students have work rights during term and can work full time in holidays. The hours limit is on your visa label, and 25 hours is reported for 2026.
What is the Post Study Work Visa?
An open work visa for graduates who studied at eligible level and length. Degree-level graduates can get up to 3 years. The fee is NZ$1,670.
Which are the main intakes?
February and July. Some courses start at other times.
When should I apply?
Start 6 to 9 months ahead. Processing times vary by season.
Sources and how we verify
Figures checked on 29 September 2026 against these pages. This guide is general information, not legal or migration advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the official authority before you apply.
Study in New Zealand with BlueZone Consultants
BlueZone Consultants guides students from Abbottabad, Mansehra, Hazara and across Pakistan through every stage of a New Zealand application: choosing the course and university, checking documents and attestation, preparing the offer and visa file, then planning money, housing and arrival.
Your first counselling session is free. Bring your transcripts, passport and English test result if you have one, and we will tell you honestly whether New Zealand fits your grades and budget.
Check your options for New Zealand
Talk to a counsellor, then use the guides below to prepare.