New Zealand – Changes to Residence Pathway from August 2025

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself” by John Dewey 

Master’s Degree Students:

Students who graduate from New Zealand universities with a Master’s degree will now receive 6 points and will be eligible for straight residence as soon as they receive a job offer in hand, provided they have a salary equal to the median wage. Earlier, they had to work for a minimum 1 year to apply for residence.

New Zealand bachelor’s degree, honours degree, post-graduate diploma or post-graduate certificate

Students who graduate from New Zealand universities with a bachelor’s degree, honours degree, postgraduate diploma, or postgraduate certificate will now receive 5 points and must work for a minimum of 1 year to apply for residence if they meet the median wage.

Studying in New Zealand is attractive due to its high-quality, globally recognized education system, with all universities ranked in the top 3% worldwide. Students can also benefit from opportunities to work during and after their studies, a safe and peaceful environment, and a lifestyle that is affordable.