Student Visa for New Zealand
English Language Requirements
New Zealand universities and colleges generally accept IELTS scores as proof of English proficiency. The required scores may vary among institutions, and the following are approximate guidelines:
- Diploma programs: Overall band score of 5.5 with no band less than 5.0
- Bachelor’s Degree: Overall band score of 6.0
- Graduate Diploma: Overall band score of 6.0
- Master Programs: Overall band score of 6.5
Financials
To meet New Zealand student visa requirements, you must demonstrate sufficient funds, including:
- Financial Undertaking Form/s (if multiple guarantors)
- Affidavit/s of Support from Guarantors (including relationship details)
- Authorization letter/s for document verification
- Evidence of upfront funds for the first year, covering living expenses (NZ$ 15,000)
Accepted evidence of funds includes:
- Education loan sanction letter
- Latest bank statements (past 6 months)
- Fixed Deposits, Post Office Accounts, National Saving Certificates
- Acceptable Payment Plan (e.g., EPF or GPF accumulated over a year)
Funds Transfer Scheme
New Zealand offers a unique fund transfer option, allowing students to transfer living expenses for 12 months to a local bank account. This option is ideal for those without sufficient funds that are at least 6 months old.
Admission & Visa Process
- Choose an academic program and review entry criteria.
- Complete the application form with required documents.
- Expect a response within a week or two, with any outstanding document requests.
- If academically accepted, receive an Offer of Place and Tax invoice.
- Apply for a student visa with Immigration New Zealand.
- Undergo a telephonic interview after visa lodgment.
- Upon visa approval, pay the course fees in full.
- Immigration completes the process, and you receive the visa.
Documents Checklist
Ensure you have all required documents for your student visa application:
- Completed Student Visa Application Form (INZ 1012)
- Visa application fee
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photographs
- Educational certificates
- IELTS certificate
- Medical or chest x-ray certificates
- Covering letter
- Letter of acceptance from the host institution
- Tuition fee payment receipt
- Police certificate
- Proof of funds (NZ$15,000 per year)
- Accommodation evidence
- Outward travel evidence or additional funds
- Employment proof (if applicable)
- Letter of recommendation (if applicable)
Additional documents may be required based on individual cases. All supporting documents should be notarized and self-attested.