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🇳🇿 New Zealand2026 intakeFree predictor
Top Universities in New Zealand for International Students (2026)
IELTS 6.5 · Tuition NZD 30,000–45,000/yr · Intakes February, July. See which universities fit your scores and budget with the free College Predictor.
▶ Predict my colleges (free)Top universities in New Zealand
- University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Canterbury
Each offers strong international support, work opportunities and globally-recognised degrees. Use the free predictor to see your Safe / Target / Reach matches with fees, intakes and the full admission process.
Admission essentials for New Zealand
- English test: IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE).
- Tuition: NZD 30,000–45,000/yr for international students.
- Intakes: February, July.
- Documents: SOP, 2–3 LORs, transcripts, CV, and a strong Statement of Purpose — build yours free with our SOP tool.
Visa, immigration & settlement in New Zealand
- Student-visa success rate: ≈82% — Fee-paying student visa.
- Post-study work: Post-study work visa: up to 3 years
- Immigration pathway: Skilled Migrant Category (points); Green List occupations get fast-tracked.
- Settlement / PR: Residence via Skilled Migrant points or Green List roles. (PR: ~2–3 yrs)
- Cost of living: NZD 20,000/yr
Recent changes (2024–26)
- 2025: Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) settings adjusted.
- 2024: Green List expanded for in-demand occupations.
Frequently asked questions
- What IELTS score do I need for universities in New Zealand?
- Most universities in New Zealand require IELTS 6.5 overall for postgraduate admission. Use the free LandingPrep College Predictor to match your exact score to universities.
- How much does it cost to study in New Zealand?
- International tuition is typically NZD 30,000–45,000/yr, plus living costs. Scholarships can offset a large part of this.
- When are the intakes in New Zealand?
- The main intakes in New Zealand are: February, July.
- Can I work and settle in New Zealand after studying?
- Yes — New Zealand offers Post-study work visa: up to 3 years. The pathway is Skilled Migrant Category (points); Green List occupations get fast-tracked. Permanent residence: PR: ~2–3 yrs.
- How do I shortlist universities and check my chances in New Zealand?
- Use the free LandingPrep Profile Evaluation and College Predictor: enter your test score, GPA and budget to get Safe, Target and Reach universities in New Zealand, plus matching scholarships and the admission process.
- What is the student-visa success rate for New Zealand?
- New Zealand has an indicative student-visa success rate of about 82%. Fee-paying student visa. Strong proof of funds and a genuine study plan matter most.