What is an 'international' student in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, an international student is defined as someone who is not a citizen or resident of New Zealand and who holds a visa specifically issued for the purpose of studying in the country. This includes individuals who come to New Zealand on student visas to pursue education at primary, secondary, or tertiary level institutions.
Why New Zealand welcomes international students
New Zealand warmly welcomes international students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, embracing their unique experiences and perspectives. The Government is committed to encouraging international education because it brings significant social, cultural, and economic advantages to New Zealand. It enhances our quality education system by fostering positive educational outcomes for international students while creating global opportunities for domestic students and our educational institutions. International students contribute culturally, socially, and economically to New Zealand's education system and broader community.
International cooperation and engagement have been core priorities for the Ministry of Education in New Zealand. By developing and nurturing educational relationships with key countries and participating in various multilateral organisations, the Government is aiming fulfill New Zealand’s education-related obligations in human rights reporting, Sustainable Development Goal 4, and education-specific legal frameworks.
Bilaterally, the Ministry manages Education Cooperation Arrangements with numerous countries and engages in multilateral forums such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Education Network and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Facilitating ministerial and official travel supports building connections within the global education community.
These international relationships and commitments enrich New Zealand's education system by integrating innovation, best practices, research, expertise, data, and knowledge. Domestically, the Ministry collaborates with agencies like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Education New Zealand, while also leveraging UNESCO's resources through the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.
Regulations supporting international students include the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, which ensures the wellbeing of both domestic and international learners enrolled in New Zealand education institutions. All providers hosting international students must adhere to this Code, overseen by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Additionally, the International Student Contract Dispute Resolution Scheme resolves contractual and financial disputes between international students and education providers. This framework ensures a fair and transparent process for dispute resolution.
Student exchange programs further enhance educational opportunities by enabling reciprocal exchanges where students can live and study abroad, fostering cross-cultural understanding and academic growth.
Ready to study?
Key points being an international student in New Zealand
If you are an international student, you must hold a valid student visa that allows you to study a particular course, with a particular provider, for a specific duration, in New Zealand. You may have restrictions on the number of hours you can work while studying, if any. For international students, it is essential to comply with visa conditions, including maintaining enrolment in an approved course of study and ensuring their visa remains valid throughout their stay in New Zealand. Failure to comply may result in a breach of your visa conditions, or leading to you becoming unlawful in New Zealand.
Contact us for further guidance on obtaining the appropriate visa and taking advantage of these benefits to study in New Zealand as an international student.
