PR in New Zealand After Study

New Zealand is one of the most desirable destinations for international students who want a world-class education and PR in New Zealand after studying. The country offers globally ranked universities, generous scholarships, an excellent lifestyle, and immigration policies that support skilled graduates.

If you are planning to study in New Zealand and get PR in New Zealand after study, this guide explains everything—including tuition fees, living expenses, scholarship opportunities, PR eligibility, schooling options, and top universities that strengthen your long-term career pathways.

This is the most comprehensive 2025 guide for students planning for PR in New Zealand after studying.

Why choose New Zealand for studies and PR?

New Zealand is consistently ranked among the safest, most peaceful, and most welcoming countries in the world. What makes it even more attractive is its transparent immigration system and strong demand for skilled professionals.

Major reasons students choose NZ:

Students choose New Zealand for its world-class and affordable education, strong post-study work opportunities, and high quality of life. Other major draws include a safe and peaceful environment, opportunities for research and innovation, and the country’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures

• All universities are ranked in the top 3% globally

•  1–3 years Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV)

• High-quality education with practical learning

•  Simple and predictable PR pathways

•  Skill shortages across IT, engineering, health, education, and agriculture.

•  A clean, safe, multicultural living environment

For international students, New Zealand provides an ideal combination of education, career, migration, and PR in New Zealand after study.

Tuition Fees in New Zealand (2025)

Tuition fees in New Zealand for 2025 generally range from NZD $24,000 to $37,000 per year, but this can vary significantly depending on the program and level of study. For example, undergraduate degrees may be on the lower end of this range, while some master’s programs can cost NZD $50,000 to over $80,000 per year. It is essential to check the specific university and course for the most accurate fee information. 

Understanding tuition fees is essential before planning to apply for PR after studying.

 Bachelor’s Degree Cost

A bachelor’s degree in New Zealand typically costs between NZD $20,500 and $32,000 per year for international students, though this can vary significantly depending on the university and the subject of study. For example, arts and humanities are often at the lower end of the range, while fields like medicine, engineering, and veterinary science are considerably pricier. 

Master’s Degree Cost

Research Master’s (Cheapest Option)

A research master’s in New Zealand involves advanced, independent study culminating in a thesis, with programs typically lasting one to two years. Key requirements include a relevant bachelor’s degree, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, and a strong focus on developing advanced research skills through close work with a supervisor.

• 8,000–12,000 NZD per year

• Reduced fees due to government support

• Excellent PR advantage

PhD Program Cost

An international student can expect to pay between NZ$6,500 and NZ$10,000 annually for PhD tuition, though this can be higher for certain fields like medical science or if studying offshore. Total yearly costs, including living expenses, health insurance, and research, can be NZ$30,000 and NZ$35,000 or more, depending on the city and lifestyle. 

New Zealand offers domestic fees for international PhD students:

• 6,500–10,000 NZD/year.

• Strong pathway to PR

• Full-time work rights

Schooling in New Zealand for Families

Schooling in New Zealand is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16 and is divided into primary (ages 5-10) and secondary (ages 11-18) education. Families can enroll their children in government-funded public schools, which are often zoned, or in private or state-integrated schools that charge fees. To enroll, parents must provide the child’s visa, proof of address, health records, and other legal documents to the school directly. 

Many families choose NZ schooling because of PR opportunities.

School Tuition Fees:

• Public School: 12,000 – 18,000 NZD/year

• Private School: 25,000–35,000 NZD/year

Benefits:

• High-quality education

• Perfect English-speaking environment

• Smooth entry into NZ universities

• Parents may obtain guardian visas

Living Costs for International Students (2025)

Living costs for international students in 2025 vary significantly by destination, averaging between $15,000 and $22,000 per semester, while yearly costs can range from under $10,000 to over $70,000 depending on the country. Major cost components include accommodation, tuition (which can be low in countries like Germany or high in the US), health insurance, food, and transportation. Students should budget for these expenses and also consider additional costs like visa fees, airfare, and books, with a buffer for unexpected expenses recommended. 

New Zealand’s immigration requires proof of 20,000 NZD per year for living.

Average Living Cost Breakdown:

Total yearly cost: 15,000–20,000 NZD

Scholarships to Reduce Study Costs

New Zealand provides generous scholarships that lower tuition fees and support students aiming for PR in New Zealand after study.

Top Scholarships:

1. New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships (Fully Funded)

Covers:
✔ Tuition
✔ Living allowance
✔ Travel cost
✔ Insurance

2. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship

• Up to 10,000 NZD

3. Victoria University Tongarewa Scholarship

• 5,000–10,000 NZD

4. AUT International Scholarships

• Up to 8,000 NZD

5. University of Otago Postgraduate Research Scholarships

• Full tuition + stipend

Scholarships not only reduce cost but also improve chances of securing PSWV and PR due to academic excellence.

 Top Universities for PR Pathway in New Zealand (2025)

Some universities have programs that align strongly with the Green List occupations.

Choosing a PR-aligned university boosts employability.

How to Get PR in New Zealand After Study (2025)

To get Permanent Residency (PR) in New Zealand after studying, complete a recognized qualification, get a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) to gain work experience, and then apply for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) residency visa. The SMC application is point-based and requires meeting criteria for age, qualifications, and skilled work experience in New Zealand, along with having a skilled job offer. 

There are multiple pathways for international graduates to gain PR in New Zealand after studying:

 Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV)

After completing level 7+ programs, students can receive a 1–3 year work visa.

This allows graduates to:

• Work full-time

• Gain skilled work experience

• Increase points for PR

 Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) PR

To qualify, you need:

• Skilled employment in NZ

• A good salary (above the median wage)

• New Zealand qualification points

• Age under 55

• English proficiency

 Green List Occupation Pathway (Fast-Track PR)

Some jobs offer direct-to-residence or work-to-residence pathways.

Examples:

• Software Engineer

• Civil Engineer

• Registered Nurse

• Electrician

• Secondary School Teacher

• Agricultural Scientist

• Construction Managers

Students choosing these fields have much higher PR success rates.

 Partner of a New Zealand Resident Visa

To get a New Zealand Resident Visa as a partner, you must have a partner who is a New Zealand citizen or resident and prove you have been living together for a certain period. You may be eligible for a 12-month or 3-year work visa initially, depending on how long you’ve been in a relationship, and can then apply for residence. 

If your partner is an NZ resident or citizen, you can apply through partnership-based residency.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

If an employer supports your work visa, this experience can lead to PR.

Best Programs for pr in New Zealand after study

The best programs for permanent residency (PR) in New Zealand after study are those in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, engineering, and teaching, especially those on the Green List. Choosing a qualification in one of these areas, securing a skilled job offer after graduation, and meeting the requirements for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa are key steps to obtaining PR. 

For Fast PR:

• IT & Software Engineering

• Cybersecurity

• Civil & Structural Engineering

• Nursing & Healthcare

• Teaching

• Agriculture & Food Technology

• Construction Management

 Total Cost to Study & Get pr in New Zealand after study

The total cost to study and get a PR in New Zealand includes tuition fees (ranging from approximately NZ$22,000 to NZ$37,000 annually for a bachelor’s degree) and living expenses (around NZ$20,000 to NZ$35,000 per year). Additionally, there are costs associated with the student visa application, potential post-study work visa fees, and the final PR application process. To be eligible for PR, you must complete a qualification of at least NZQA Level 4 and likely meet a points-based system that considers age, work experience, and skills. 

Scholarships and part-time jobs significantly minimize expenses.

🎯 Final Thoughts—Is NZ Good for Study & PR?

Absolutely yes.

New Zealand offers one of the world’s cleanest PR pathways, backed by:

• Globally recognized universities

• Skill shortages

• High salaries

• Long-term stability

If you choose a PR-friendly program, maintain good grades, and gain skilled employment, getting PR in New Zealand after study becomes highly achievable.

New Zealand is not just a place to study—it’s a place to build a future.

Need Help Applying?

At Scholars Zone, we specialize in placing Bangladeshi students in affordable Canadian universities that offer scholarships, PGWP benefits, and PR potential.

📌HEAD OFFICE: House – 27/A, Rd No. #03, Dhadmondi, Dhaka – 1205.

🌐 Website: www.scholarszone.com.bd
📞 Phone: +88 01714-076485  
📧 Email: contact@scholarszone.com.bd