Study in New Zealand — Unicorn Education

Why choose New Zealand?

New Zealand is a safe, English-speaking study destination that combines high academic standards with an exceptional quality of life. Its universities are research-led and globally respected, offering practical, industry-relevant programs and strong student support services. The country has grown its international education sector intentionally and is expanding opportunities for students to study, work and settle — making it an attractive option for Bangladeshi students seeking a globally recognised qualification and a clear path to work experience abroad.

Quick facts at a glance

Number of public universities: 8 (all regularly appear in global rankings).

Leading NZ university: University of Auckland — ranked inside the global top 100 (QS #65).

Typical total annual student budget (tuition + living): varies widely by program and city — plan for NZD 40,000 – 70,000 per year as a working estimate.

Study pathways & popular programs

New Zealand offers pathways that fit academic and career goals:

Undergraduate degrees (Bachelors, 3–4 years)

Postgraduate coursework & research (Masters, PhD)

Postgraduate diplomas & vocational qualifications (practical, industry-focused)

Popular study areas for international students:

Engineering, Computer Science & AI

Data Science & Cybersecurity

Health, Nursing & Allied Health

Agriculture, Environmental Science & Forestry

Creative & Digital Media (animation, game design)

Business, Finance & Hospitality

Tuition & cost of living (realistic ranges)

Tuition and living costs depend on the institution, program level and city. Use these ranges to plan conservatively:

Tuition (approximate annual)

Undergraduate: NZD 22,000 – 35,000

Postgraduate (taught): NZD 26,000 – 37,000

MBA / specialised programs: NZD 35,000 – 55,000

Living costs (average annual)

Rent, food, transport, utilities, phone, leisure: NZD 15,000 – 30,000
Estimated total annual budget (tuition + living): NZD 40,000 – 70,000 (check program-specific fees).

English & academic requirements

Undergraduate (typical):

Completed 12 years of schooling (HSC or equivalent)

Competitive HSC marks (often 65–75%+ depending on program)

Relevant subject prerequisites for STEM/Health programs

Postgraduate (typical):

Recognised bachelor’s degree, usually with a strong GPA or grade average

CV / transcripts / references; research proposal for research degrees

English language tests commonly accepted:

IELTS (commonly 6.0–7.0 overall depending on program)

TOEFL iBT (typically 80–100)

PTE Academic (commonly 50–65)
Always check the exact requirement on the university page for your chosen program.

Intakes & application timeline

Most universities use the following intakes (dates and availability vary by course):

February (Semester 1) — main intake (apply early; deadlines often Nov previous year)

July (Semester 2) — second intake (apply around Apr–Jun)

September / November — some institutions offer additional intakes for targeted programs

Suggested timeline for main (Feb) intake:

• 12–18 months before: research universities & scholarships
• 8–12 months before: take English test; prepare documents
• 6–8 months before: submit applications
• 3–4 months before: accept offer, apply for scholarships & visa
• 2 months before: final pre-departure preparation

Student visa & work rights (what’s new)

Student Visa basics: You need an offer from an approved institution, proof of funds, health insurance, passport, and English test results. Processing times vary; apply early.

Post-study work: New Zealand’s Post Study Work Visa lets eligible graduates stay and work in NZ for up to 3 years, depending on the level and duration of study. This visa is a common path to gain experience and pursue permanent residency.

Important update — in-study work hours (Nov 3, 2025): From 3 November 2025, eligible tertiary and secondary students will be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during term time (up from 20 hours). This change applies to new student visas granted from that date. Plan finances and work search accordingly.

Post-study work & long-term settlement

Post Study Work Visa (up to 3 years) — gain professional experience, improve your immigration points, and explore pathways to PR (Skilled Migrant Category, Green List occupations, employer-sponsored routes).

Focus on in-demand sectors (IT, health, engineering, agriculture, creative tech) to maximise employability and PR prospects.

Scholarships & funding

New Zealand and universities offer a mix of scholarships for international students:

Government scholarships (e.g., New Zealand Development Scholarships)

University merit scholarships and faculty awards

Research scholarships for PhD candidates
Average scholarship support often ranges from partial fee reductions to full funding for outstanding applicants—start your journey apply now and grab maximum scholarship