New Zealand Student - Explore Our FAQ Page

New Zealand is preferred for its high-quality education, globally ranked universities, and safe multicultural environment. Students from Dubai appreciate the English-speaking system, post-study work rights, and pathways to residency.

• Degrees are recognized worldwide.
• Tuition fees are competitive compared to the UK, USA, and Canada.
• Work rights: 20 hours weekly during studies.

ABROAD ROUTES guides UAE students with a tailored study plan, admission support, and visa assistance to secure top universities.

Admission requirements vary by program, but the essentials remain similar across universities.

• Valid passport
• Academic transcripts (10th, 12th, bachelor’s as applicable)
• English proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE
• Offer letter from a New Zealand institution
• Statement of Purpose & recommendation letters

Yes, several universities and colleges offer alternatives to IELTS.

• PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo accepted in many institutions.
• Some may offer internal English placement tests.
• Exemptions possible for English-medium schooling.

New Zealand student visa processing normally takes 4–8 weeks, depending on application completeness.
Key factors:

• Genuine student profile
• Financial proof availability
• Accuracy of documents

Immigration NZ requires proof that you can support yourself during studies.

• Living expenses: approx. NZD 20,000 per year
• Tuition fee payment receipt
• Bank statements (6 months)
• Sponsor letters (if applicable)

Yes, most international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays.
Job opportunities include hospitality, retail, tutoring, logistics, and office roles.
Part-time work helps cover living expenses and build experience.

Top-ranked institutions include:

• University of Auckland
• University of Otago
• Victoria University of Wellington
• University of Canterbury
• Massey University

New Zealand universities are respected globally for quality research and practical education.

The total cost includes tuition + living expenses.

• Bachelor’s: NZD 22,000–32,000/year
• Master’s: NZD 26,000–39,000/year
• Living: approx. NZD 20,000/year

The cost varies by city and lifestyle.

The process includes:

1. Choose a course and institution
2. Receive an offer letter
3. Prepare financial and academic documents
4. Submit New Zealand student visa application online
5. Medical tests & biometrics

Immigration New Zealand requires a health check for courses over 12 months.

• Chest X-ray
• Full medical exam
• Blood tests

These must be done at Immigration NZ-approved medical centers.

Yes, many universities offer scholarships for academic merit and specific study areas.
Common options include:

• New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
• University-specific merit scholarships
• Discipline-based scholarships

Yes, dependents can accompany you depending on your program level.

• Research master’s or PhD students can bring spouse and kids
• Spouses may receive open work visas
• Children can access free schooling

Popular courses include:

• IT & Computer Science
• Engineering
• Business & Management
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Healthcare & Nursing

New Zealand offers practical, job-ready programs.

Students may qualify for the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV).

• Duration: 1 to 3 years depending on qualification level
• Allows full-time work in any sector

This is an important pathway towards residency.

Yes, most institutions accept reasonable study gaps.

• Typically 2–5 years acceptable
• Provide strong justification
• Include employment or training proof

There is no official age limit for studying in New Zealand.
However, older applicants must show solid academic intent and financial capability.
ABROAD ROUTES specializes in mature student cases and ensures your study plan aligns with visa expectations.

Yes, it is possible under specific conditions.

• You must secure an offer letter
• Provide complete financial documentation
• Apply before your visitor visa expires

New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries globally.

• Low crime rate
• Friendly and inclusive society
• Supportive campus services

Expected cost: NZD 20,000 per year, covering:

• Accommodation
• Food & groceries
• Transport
• Insurance & utilities

Yes, many programs integrate internships or industry placements.

• IT, business, and engineering programs include work-integrated learning
• Provides real-world experience
• Enhances employability after graduation

Success rates are high for genuine, well-prepared applications.
Factors influencing approval:

• Academic consistency
• Genuine Intent (GTE)
• Financial capability

Typically, New Zealand requires payment of the first-year fees before visa processing.
Some colleges may offer partial payment options.

Yes, most institutions require an SOP explaining study motivations.
A strong SOP includes:

• Academic background
• Career goals
• Reason for choosing New Zealand

Major intakes:

• February
• July
  Minor intakes:
• April, September, November (college-specific)

New Zealand offers clear pathways to residency for qualified graduates.
Factors:

• Occupation in demand
• Post-study work experience
• Skill level of qualification

ABROAD ROUTES provides end-to-end support:

• University selection
• SOP/LOR preparation
• Visa documentation
• Financial guidance
• Post-landing support

Yes, all international students must have medical and travel insurance.
It covers:

• Medical emergencies
• Travel delays
• Personal belongings

Provide:

• 6-month bank statements
• Tuition receipt
• Salary slips
• Sponsor letters

Immigration NZ checks financial genuineness carefully.

Typically:

• Diploma: IELTS 5.5
• Bachelor’s: IELTS 6.0
• Master’s: IELTS 6.5

However, equivalents like PTE and TOEFL are accepted too.

Yes, many universities and colleges accept students with low marks if they show:

• Genuine intent
• Strong SOP
• Relevant work experience

Choosing the right university requires evaluating rankings, program quality, tuition fees, career outcomes, and PR pathways. Students from Dubai must compare intakes, course structure, internship options, and employment links. ABROAD ROUTES provides a personalized analysis to match your academic profile with the best institution.

• Identify your long-term career goals
• Compare university rankings and accreditations
• Check entry requirements and English scores
• Evaluate living expenses in the city
• Consult ABROAD ROUTES for expert matchmaking

Admissions require both academic and personal documents. These are used to evaluate eligibility, English proficiency, and academic consistency. ABROAD ROUTES helps collect, prepare, and format all documents as per university standards

• Passport copy
• Academic transcripts & certificates
• English test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
• CV + SOP
• Recommendation letters
• Portfolio (if required)

Yes, New Zealand institutions accept a reasonable number of backlogs as long as your overall academic performance is consistent. Universities typically consider the reasons behind backlogs and improvement trends. ABROAD ROUTES helps students with backlogs highlight their strengths through SOPs and course selection

• Up to 5–10 backlogs may be accepted
• Some universities allow more with justification
• Strong SOP improves chances
• Additional certificates or training help
• ABROAD ROUTES recommends backlog-friendly colleges

Yes, online education is accepted as long as the program comes from a recognized institution. Immigration New Zealand evaluates both the credibility of the qualification and your intent to study further. ABROAD ROUTES ensures your online qualification aligns with university requirements

• Provide transcripts from recognized boards
• SOP must explain your educational journey
• Some programs may require bridging courses
• English test scores strengthen your application
• ABROAD ROUTES guides eligible online learners

New Zealand offers vibrant, student-friendly cities with excellent academic environments and safe living conditions. Students from Dubai usually choose cities with strong job markets and community support. ABROAD ROUTES helps students choose the right city based on course demand and lifestyle preferences

• Auckland – business, IT, engineering
• Wellington – government, arts, media
• Christchurch – technology & research
• Hamilton – agriculture, biotech
• Dunedin – medicine & sciences

New Zealand’s education system focuses on practical skills, research excellence, and industry-linked learning. Courses emphasize creativity, problem-solving, and global employability. ABROAD ROUTES explains program structures, credit systems, and campus expectations for UAE applicants

• NZQA regulated qualifications
• Focus on real-world learning
• Internship pathways integrated
• Small class sizes
• Globally recognized degrees

Universities offer academic and research-oriented programs, while polytechnics focus on practical, job-ready skills. Both are recognized worldwide and provide quality education. ABROAD ROUTES guides students in selecting based on their career goals

• Universities = theoretical + research
• Polytechnics = applied learning
• Polytechnics often lower in cost
• Both offer post-study work rights
• Choice depends on academic goals

Yes, part-time jobs are widely available across major cities. Students from Dubai can work in retail, hospitality, logistics, tutoring, and IT support roles. ABROAD ROUTES helps students prepare job-ready CVs and guides them on compliant work practices

• 20 hours per week during study
• Full-time during scheduled breaks
• Minimum wage applies
• Strong demand in cities like Auckland
• Universities offer career centers

Students can choose from campus housing, homestays, shared apartments, or private rentals. Costs vary by city, and early booking is essential for Dubai students arriving before peak intake. ABROAD ROUTES assists with approved housing platforms and budget planning

• University halls of residence
• Homestays for cultural experience
• Shared apartments for affordability
• Studio rentals for privacy
• Weekly cost: NZD 200–350

New Zealand does not follow a blocked account method like Germany, but you must show genuine financial capacity. Immigration NZ requires stable bank statements and proof of income sources. ABROAD ROUTES ensures your file meets financial rules for higher visa approval odds

• NZD 20,000 living expenses
• Tuition fee payment proof
• 6-month bank statements
• Sponsor relationship proof
• Source of funds explanation

Programs vary in duration depending on the level and type of qualification. Short diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s programs all have different timelines. ABROAD ROUTES helps you choose programs aligning with career objectives and PR pathways

• Diplomas: 1–2 years
• Bachelor’s: 3 years
• Master’s: 1–2 years
• PhD: 3–4 years
• Some programs include internships

New Zealand offers strong migration pathways for skill shortage fields. Courses related to IT, engineering, healthcare, and trades lead to high employability. ABROAD ROUTES helps UAE students pick PR-oriented courses for long-term settlement goals

• IT & Software Engineering
• Civil & Mechanical Engineering
• Nursing & Healthcare
• Construction Management
• Agriculture & Food Science

Many students from Dubai prefer PTE Academic for its quick results and flexible test dates. IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo are acceptable alternatives.

• PTE widely accepted
• Faster result turnaround
• IELTS trusted globally
• TOEFL valid for universities
• Duolingo accepted by select colleges

You must show NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses plus tuition fees. The bank balance must be legitimate and supported by income evidence.

• 6 months bank history
• Sponsor bank statements allowed
• Salary slips required if self-funded
• Property/income proof helps
• Clear fund sources increase approval

Yes, course changes are allowed but must be approved by Immigration NZ. The new course must match the level and purpose of your original study plan.

• Notify immigration
• Provide offer letter for new course
• Update insurance
• Update fee payment
• Maintain full-time study status

If rejected, you may reapply with stronger documentation or appeal the decision. The key is addressing the reasons clearly and correcting issues.

• Check refusal reasons
• strengthen financial documents
• Submit improved GTE
• Provide additional supporting evidence
• ABROAD ROUTES handles reapplication strategy

Some universities charge application fees while others waive them for selected intakes. The fees vary depending on the institution and program.

• Fees range NZD 30–100
• Some waivers available
• No fees for certain scholarships
• Payment usually online
• ABROAD ROUTES provides updated fee lists

While major intakes are in February and July, certain colleges may offer rolling intakes including January. Availability depends on the course and institution.

• Feb: main intake
• July: second major intake
• Jan/Apr/Sept: limited intake
• Early application recommended

Part-time wages help cover living costs but should not be your primary source of funding. Students earn based on hours worked and industry demand.

• Minimum wage approx. NZD 23/hour
• 20 hours per week
• Full-time during holidays
• Income varies by role
• Retail, hospitality, and logistics are common sectors

UAE residents enjoy a multicultural learning environment, English-speaking education, and excellent career opportunities. New Zealand’s welcoming society makes it ideal for students seeking safety and growth.

• World-ranked universities
• Post-study work rights
• Pathways to residency
• Affordable tuition
• Safe environment

A consultant ensures your admission and visa process is accurate, compliant, and successful. They reduce errors, rejections, and delays.

• University selection
• SOP writing
• Visa guidance
• Financial documentation
• Post-landing support

Yes, many programs include internships through Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). These internships provide real-world industry exposure and improve job outcomes.

• Internships in IT/engineering/business
• Paid or unpaid
• Enhance CV and visa prospects
• Offered through universities
• Demand varies by sector

You should start at least 6–8 months before the intake to secure seats, prepare documents, and avoid delays. Visa and admission processes require careful planning.

• Apply early for scholarships
• Avoid last-minute issues
• Time required for medicals
• Fee payment processing
• ABROAD ROUTES creates timelines for you

Yes, many institutions offer blended and online learning options, especially for business and IT. However, student visas require primarily on-campus learning.

• Online mode available for some courses
• Visa requires in-person study
• Blended options exist
• Professional programs mostly on-campus

Dependent children up to age 19 may be eligible to accompany you depending on your visa category. Schooling is often free for dependents of master’s or PhD students.

• Children under 19 eligible
• School-aged children need student visas
• Some schooling is free
• Marriage certificate required for spouse cases

Students must have approved medical and travel insurance throughout their study period. It covers hospital care, emergencies, theft, and travel disruptions.

• Mandatory for visa
• Covers health emergencies
• Protects personal belongings
• Required by all universities
• Can be arranged before travel

There is no official fast-track service, but complete, strong files get processed faster. Well-prepared documentation reduces delays significantly.

• Strong financials
• Clear GTE
• Valid medical reports
• Early submissions
• Expert-reviewed files get quicker decisions

Yes, New Zealand is generally more affordable in terms of tuition and living expenses. It provides high-quality education with lower cost of living compared to Australia and Canada.

• Tuition lower by 10–20%
• Living costs moderate
• Affordable accommodation
• Lower transportation costs
• Strong post-study work opportunities

New Zealand has strong demand in technology, healthcare, construction, engineering, and agriculture. Graduates in these fields enjoy faster job placement and PR opportunities.

• IT & software development
• Civil & mechanical engineering
• Nursing & aged care
• Construction & project management
• Food technology & agriculture

Living costs depend on city, lifestyle, and accommodation choices. Compared to Dubai, New Zealand offers moderate and student-friendly expenses, especially in cities outside Auckland.

• Average cost: NZD 20,000 per year
• Rent: NZD 200–350 weekly
• Food: NZD 60–100 weekly
• Transport: NZD 10–30 weekly
• Cheaper in Hamilton, Dunedin, Palmerston North

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city with higher rental and daily living expenses. However, it offers excellent jobs, internships, and multicultural communities ideal for UAE students.

• Higher rent than other cities
• Strong job market
• Public transport discounts for students
• More multicultural community
• Affordable suburbs available

Some universities may offer IELTS waivers if you studied in an English-medium school or provide alternative English certificates. However, visas usually require proof of English proficiency.

• PTE/TOEFL accepted
• Some universities offer English tests
• Waivers possible case-by-case
• Visa may still need English proof
• ABROAD ROUTES checks eligibility

Tuition fees vary by program, level, and institution. Students from Dubai can choose from affordable polytechnics to premium universities.

• Diplomas: NZD 16,000–24,000
• Bachelor’s: NZD 20,000–30,000
• Master’s: NZD 28,000–40,000
• PhD: subsidized for international students
• Payment may be semester-wise

New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries globally, making it ideal for UAE students. Crime rates are low, people are friendly, and campuses are well-secured.

• Low crime rates
• Safe public transport
• Friendly multicultural communities
• Campus security available
• Ideal for solo travelers and families

Yes, students enrolled in specific master’s or bachelor’s programs may bring their spouse. Spouses often receive work rights depending on the course level.

• Eligible for partner work visas
• Documentation must show relationship
• Children may get student visas
• Depends on course level (L7–L9)

Level 7 refers to bachelor’s degrees and graduate diplomas, while Level 8 refers to postgraduate diplomas and advanced academic programs. Both levels offer strong job and PR prospects.

• Level 7: UG or Graduate Diploma
• Level 8: Postgraduate Diploma
• Level 8 leads to master’s pathway
• Different work rights depending on level
• Both recognized for PR

New Zealand student visa processing usually takes 4–8 weeks, depending on documentation and background checks. Well-prepared files get faster decisions.

• 4–8 weeks average
• Medicals may extend time
• Financial checks required
• Early filing recommended

Study gaps are accepted if justified with valid documents such as employment, training, or personal circumstances. New Zealand values transparency over gap duration.

• 5–8 years gap accepted
• Employment proof required
• SOP must explain reasons
• Training certificates help
• ABROAD ROUTES writes professional gap justifications

Yes, students completing Grade 12 from CBSE, ISC, IB, or UAE boards are eligible. Universities assess overall academic performance and English proficiency.

• Minimum 60–65%
• Some courses need Math/Science
• English requirement applies
• Foundation courses available
• ABROAD ROUTES reviews eligibility

Medical insurance is mandatory, costing between NZD 500–700 per year. It covers medical emergencies, hospital care, and travel protection.

• Mandatory for visa
• Covers emergencies
• Some universities include in fees
• Annual renewal required
• Affordable compared to other countries

Yes, the New Zealand government and universities offer several full and partial scholarships. These are competitive and based on academic merit and leadership potential.

• NZ Government Scholarships
• University Excellence Scholarships
• Research Grants for Master’s/PhD
• Merit-based awards
• Early application required

Yes, Level 7 Graduate Diplomas and Level 8 Postgraduate Diplomas offer post-study work rights. Students must complete eligible programs to apply.

• 1–3 years PSW available
• Depends on course level
• Work experience supports PR
• Courses must be on approved list

Yes, students applying for long-term visas may need a police clearance certificate from Dubai or their home country. It ensures security compliance.

• PCC required for 24+ month visas
• UAE PCC available online
• Certificate must be recent
• Notarization may be needed

The visa fee varies but generally ranges between AED 900–1,200 including service charges. Additional fees may apply for biometrics or medical exams.

• Visa fee AED 900–1,200
• Medical fee separate
• Biometrics optional based on rules
• Fees non-refundable

Medical exams include chest X-ray and general health checkups. These ensure students meet health standards set by Immigration NZ.

• X-ray for TB screening
• Full medical for long-term visas
• Must be done at approved centers
• Valid for 3–6 months
• Medical delays may impact visa time

Switching is possible but subject to strict conditions. Immigration NZ checks your genuine intent and supporting documents.

• Allowed in some conditions
• Strong justification needed
• New offer letter required
• Must meet financial criteria

Graduates find opportunities in IT, engineering, healthcare, business, and trades. New Zealand’s skill shortage list increases employability for UAE-based students.

• High demand in tech
• Healthcare roles expanding
• Construction booming
• Good salaries
• PR pathway in multiple fields

Yes, major cities offer flexible part-time jobs suitable for students. Retail, hospitality, logistics, and on-campus roles are common.

• 20-hour work rule
• Full-time in breaks
• Income helps living costs
• Jobs available year-round
• University career centers assist

New Zealand has cool, pleasant weather, unlike Dubai’s extreme summers. Students enjoy seasonal changes, outdoor activities, and clean air.

• Four seasons
• Cool winters
• Mild summers
• More rainfall
• Pleasant for outdoor lifestyle

Yes, New Zealand degrees are recognized worldwide for their quality and academic standards. Employers value graduates for their practical skills.

• NZQA-accredited
• Strong academic rankings
• High employer satisfaction
• Recognized for PR abroad
• Suitable for global careers

PhD students can work unlimited hours, giving them financial independence. New Zealand treats PhD candidates as domestic students.

• Unlimited work rights
• Lower tuition fees
• Scholarships available
• Strong employment outcomes
• Ideal for Dubai-based researchers

Some institutions may conduct online interviews to assess eligibility or verify documents. These interviews are straightforward and student-friendly.

• Required for selective programs
• Conducted via Zoom/Teams
• Simple academic questions
• SOP consistency checked
• ABROAD ROUTES provides training

Yes, deferrals are allowed depending on the university’s policy. Students must request deferral before the intake deadline.

• 6–12 months deferral
• Written request needed
• Fees may shift to future intake
• COE updated after approval
• ABROAD ROUTES manages communication

Many business, IT, engineering, and applied science programs offer internships. These help students gain work experience and secure job offers.

• Work-Integrated Learning
• Paid/unpaid internships
• Industry placements
• Higher employability
• Strong employer networks

Yes, many universities accept credit transfers after academic evaluation. The process depends on course compatibility.

• Transcript evaluation
• Course mapping needed
• Reduces study duration
• Not all credits accepted

Yes, foundation programs help students who do not meet direct entry requirements. These programs prepare students for bachelor’s courses.

• English + academic training
• Pathway to bachelor’s
• 6–12 months duration
• Popular for CBSE/IGCSE students
• High acceptance rate

You may retake the subject or complete supplementary assessments. Universities offer academic support to help students succeed.

• Retakes allowed
• Academic counseling available
• Some fees apply for retakes
• Keep visa compliance
• Plan studies carefully

Yes, you can travel abroad as long as your visa remains valid and you maintain full-time enrollment.

• Return visa must be valid
• Inform university
• Avoid long absences
• Check immigration policies
• Carry enrollment proof

Some universities and polytechnics offer budget-friendly tuition without compromising quality.

• Eastern Institute of Technology
• Waikato Institute of Technology
• Otago Polytechnic
• Auckland University of Technology

Success rates are high when applications are genuine and well-documented. Financial clarity and academic consistency are key.

• Strong GTE needed
• Good financials essential
• Clean academic history helps
• SOP influences approval

Yes, students can progress from diploma to bachelor’s or postgraduate levels. Many institutions offer pathway arrangements.

• Graduate Diploma → Master’s
• Diploma → Bachelor’s
• Credit transfers available
• Smooth academic progression

Yes, universities provide extensive research opportunities across fields like technology, environment, engineering, and health sciences.

• Thesis-based master’s available
• Work with global researchers
• Access to modern labs
• Scholarships for researchers
• Good for PR pathways

Most universities require partial fee payment before issuing COE. Visa may require proof of fee payment.

• Partial payment required
• Visa may require receipt
• Installments possible
• Depends on institution

A few institutions may request video statements as part of their evaluation. This helps verify student intent.

• Short 1–3 minute video
• Must be clear & concise
• Focus on goals and motivation
• Background should be neutral

Students must show bank statements, salary slips, tax proofs, business income, or sponsor documents. Immigration NZ checks fund legitimacy.

• 6-month bank statements
• Proof of income
• Tuition fee receipt
• Relationship proof (if sponsored)
• Source of funds declaration

Public transport is affordable and student-friendly. Each city offers buses, trains, and cycling routes.

• Student discounts available
• Monthly passes affordable
• Safe walking routes
• Ride-sharing common
• Good connectivity in major cities

Yes, New Zealand offers clear pathways to residency through skilled employment after studies. Completing eligible programs and obtaining relevant experience improves eligibility.

• Post-study work visa
• Skilled Migrant Category
• Points-based system
• Occupation shortage list

Students need to carry academic, visa, accommodation, and financial documents. Immigration officers may verify study intention.

• Passport + visa
• Offer letter & COE
• Tuition payment proof
• Accommodation details
• Emergency contact list