Jun 24, 2025
Over the years, international students have been prioritizing career prospects and long term stay time when it comes to higher education abroad. There has been quite a shift in study abroad trends and student preferences in the last two years owing to the various changes brought into effect for international students especially in the big four-the US, the UK, Canada and Australia.
As per this shift, New Zealand has gained ground among international students due to Australia’s stringent policies. New Zealand’s favourable higher education policies have also significantly contributed to the increase in its international student intake in the last couple of years.
Having a multi-cultural society and student-friendly immigration policies, the country is welcoming. It also provides a high level of government transparency and security, making it a peaceful destination. The country has evolved its education and immigration policies to best suit the interests of students. Higher Education in New Zealand is cost-effective, and there are many government-funded as well as university-specific scholarships to help students finance their studies. These conveniences also make New Zealand stand out among other study destinations. In this article, we will further discuss why New Zealand is a popular choice among students in 2025-26.
New Zealand’s cost efficiency of visa fees is one of the main reasons. The New Zealand student visa fee is significantly lower than its neighbouring country, Australia. The New Zealand visa application fee is NZD 850 while the application fee for Australia goes up to AUD 1600. A little less than a 50% cost difference between the two visa application fees gives students a clear distinction. Choosing New Zealand lets the students save money without compromising on the quality of education, as all New Zealand Universities are ranked in the top 2% globally.
New Zealand’s Visa Processing is not just cost-efficient, but the government has also made it time efficient. In 2025, New Zealand streamlined the process by offering a quicker turnaround time compared to the time it used to take earlier. At present, New Zealand visa turnaround time is just 2 to 3 weeks, while earlier it used to take up to a few months. New Zealand’s processing is also efficient compared to other study destinations.
One of the biggest reasons why students are constantly attracted to New Zealand is its immigrant-friendly Visa policies apart from these aspects of lower visa fees and faster visa turnaround time. New Zealand provides a 3-year Post-Study Work Visa to international students.
This time frame is comparatively longer than other study destinations, allowing students to stay in the country for 3 years and kickstart their professional journey. New Zealand is popularly known for its work-life balance, allowing students to work in a healthy environment after their studies.
New Zealand Government’s Job Market Outlook Report for 2025 shows sustained demand for skilled professionals. This creates ample job opportunities in the country for international students.
Lack of jobs is a struggle in many study destinations, but according to New Zealand’s official skill shortage list, sectors like IT, Healthcare, Engineering, Education, and Infrastructure are seeking qualified individuals. This creates a good job market in New Zealand for those studying in 2025-26.
Along with a booming job market, the companies in New Zealand also offers high salaries and attractive employee benefits like flexible work models and paid leaves. Workers receive a minimum of 4 weeks’ paid vacation each year. Employers in New Zealand are inclusive and promote cultural diversity.
New Zealand offers a comparatively easier and accessible pathway to permanent residency in the country. This advantage further encourages international students to study in New Zealand, as it is a long-term option for those who are aiming to stay in New Zealand beyond their educational journey.
Students have to gain work experience through a post-study work visa in high-demand industries and meet the eligibility criteria for a skilled migrant visa. This will enable students to smoothly transition to permanent residency.
The most relieving and reliable aspect is that New Zealand ranks among the top 10 happiest countries in the world according to the Global Happiness Index 2025. Personal well-being is a priority in New Zealand; the country is safe with its low crime rates and welcoming communities. A great range of public services is provided to international students including public transport and access to welfare support.
International students who transition to residents become eligible to benefit from New Zealand’s public healthcare system. Auckland and Christchurch in New Zealand are two of the best student cities based on the QS Ranking of Best student cities 2025. Additionally, from beaches to mountains and everything in between, the country is filled with beautiful landscapes.
In short, New Zealand is establishing itself as a preferred study destination among international students owing to its academic excellence with real-world opportunities. International Students aiming of pursuing their higher education in New Zealand can connect with overseas education consultants like KC Overseas Education to streamline their admission process and make their dream easier to access.
Ans. Yes, the New Zealand Government is offering great support to International Students, which is quite evident from the student-friendly policies brought in by the NZ Government in recent years.
A few aspects that have added great value are:
Ans. The cost to study in New Zealand includes the tuition fees and living expenses. A Master's Degree ranges from $20,000 to $45,000, and a Bachelor’s Degree from $35,000 to $55,000 per year for the tuition fees. The annual living costs are from $20,000-$27,000, depending on the place and the student's lifestyle.
Ans. Auckland and Christchurch are the two most popular Student Cities in New Zealand, according to the QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025.
Ans. Yes, New Zealand offers up to 3 years of Post-Study Work Visa for International Students after completing a Master's or Bachelor's Degree.
Ans. The eligible students can work up to 20 hours in any given week during study time and 40 hours during holidays. Additionally, students undertaking a course of 12 months or more can work full-time during the holidays.