This page contains branch-specific information, and answers frequently-asked questions, for Filipino nationals and other nationals residing in the Philippines, wishing to study in New Zealand.
See a list of, and contact details for, Universities in New Zealand PDF [538KB].
For more information on studying in New Zealand, see Education in New Zealand,
Frequently asked questions – student visa applications
How long does it take to process my application for a student visa?
Processing times will vary depending on the quality of the application and the documents provided to us. Student applications which meet the 'positive profile' (see definition below) could be approved within 10 days on a case-by-case basis.
Some applications may take up to 45 days to process, again on a case-by-case basis.
If your medical certificate requires referral to our Medical Assessor due to significant findings, your application may take up to two months to process. We recommend that you follow your panel doctor’s advice on what further tests to take and opt to do them before you lodge your application.
We also recommend that you apply for your student visa as least three months before your intended course date.
What is a 'positive profile'?
Our experience shows that when students meet a particular profile, it assists us to make a quicker assessment of their application.
Applicants who meet most or all of the factors below give us a greater assurance that they are likely to be genuine students in New Zealand.
If an applicant does not meet the 'positive profile' criteria, it does not necessarily mean that the application will be declined. However, the application may take longer to be decided.
Factors which determine what we consider to be a 'positive profile' student.
- Good academic history (proven ability to achieve in a subject area similar to that in which they intend to study in New Zealand).
- A clear study plan and ability to show future career development.
- Course is relevant to educational background and/or work experience.
- A continuous study pattern and work experience. No big gap from previous study or work experience.
- Proven ability in English to be able to successfully attend a course of study in New Zealand (IELTS).
- Verifiable evidence of funds to meet the educational and living expenses.
- Regular source and sufficient income of financial guarantors.
- Clear health and character requirements, if required.
What evidence do I need to show of my funds?
You need to show that you have sufficient funds to pay for your first year of study. Living expenses are calculated at NZ$1,000 per month or NZ$10,000 for a year.
If you intend to study for longer than 12 months, you need to show that you have the ability to pay for your ongoing studies and living expenses for the duration of your studies. You will need to provide evidence to show that you or your family members have the income and/or assets to pay for your tuition fees and your stay in New Zealand.
You also need to provide the evidence of the source of your funds and show that the funds are available for you to use.
Who can sponsor my studies in New Zealand?
Anyone can sponsor your studies in by completing the Financial Undertaking for a Student (INZ 1014). You need to show that your sponsor genuinely intends to provide these funds to you and why.
Normally it is acceptable why close family members are willing to sponsor and provide funds. However, you may need to explain clearly why distant relatives or non-relatives would sponsor you and provide you with funds.
What is the English language requirement for a student visa?
Your educational institution in New Zealand will require a level of English language ability before offering you a place in a course. Immigration New Zealand does not have a specific English requirement for studying in New Zealand., it depends on the school’s requirements.
However, we may ask you to provide evidence of your English language ability to prove that you have met the school's requirements.
Can I work while I am in New Zealand?
The following categories of students can work up to 20 hours per week and over the holidays.
- Those studying full time for a course that is of two years duration or will gain points under the Skilled Migrant Category.
- Full time secondary school students in Year 12 or 13 with permission from their parents and the school.
- Studying English for at least six months with an IELTS of 5.
Can I bring my family members with me to New Zealand? What sort of visas do they need to apply for?
Your family members will need to apply for visas separately from yours. They can apply at the same time as you if they wish. However, the outcome of their application will depend on the outcome of your application. If your application gets declined, then their application also gets declined. There is no refund of the application fees.
Students studying towards a qualification on the Long Term Skill Shortage List or for a postgraduate qualification can apply for a work visa for their spouse. Children can apply for a student visa as a dependant of the spouse/work visa holder and are consider as domestic students.
Other students can apply for visitor visas for their dependents. Evidence of funds to support the family is required.
Visas for your dependent family members are usully valid for the same period as the validity of your student visa.