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Study planning and student visas
Studying here is more than a visa. The course you choose decides whether your family can come with you, and what work and residence options follow. Jason plans the school, the visa and the next steps together.
Who this is for
- Primary and secondary school students, and parents who want to come as guardians
- Mature students coming with a partner and children
- Parents choosing a New Zealand university and programme for their child
- People using study as a foundation for work and residence
Key requirements
- An offer of place, and tuition paid or arranged
- Enough living funds, with a clear source
- A genuine study purpose that fits your background
- Health and character requirements
This is a general summary. See the INZ website ↗ for current requirements.
How it works
Background and goals
Qualifications, work history, family and plans after study.
Course and school plan
Shortlist courses and schools with family visas and post-study options in mind.
Enrolment
Help with the application for an offer of place.
Student and family visas
The student visa and your partner's and children's visas, planned and lodged together.
What comes next
Post-study work and residence options, planned early.
Practical notes from Jason
- For master's or doctoral study, and some Green List related programmes, a partner can usually apply for an open work visa and children can attend school as domestic students. INZ's current published policy decides which courses qualify
- Mature students need a clear study purpose that connects with past study and work
- When choosing a university, look beyond rankings at the programme and any registration requirements for your future career
Questions
Am I too old to study in New Zealand?
There is no upper age limit. What matters is a sensible study plan, enough funds and a clear reason for studying at this stage.
Can my partner work?
It depends on the course. For master's, doctoral and some Green List related programmes, a partner can usually apply for an open work visa.
Do my children pay international fees?
In eligible cases children can attend state primary and secondary schools as domestic students.
Not sure which pathway fits?
Tell us the basics and Jason will tell you whether there is a workable path. The initial assessment is free.
