Study In New Zealand: World-Class Education at Every Level

Study In New Zealand: World-Class Education at Every Level
New Zealand offers high-quality education that enables students to achieve their goals through problem-solving, information processing, collaboration, creation and innovation.
New Zealand Qualifications Framework
1
Levels 1-4
National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) - main secondary school qualification and basic vocational training.
2
Levels 5-6
Sub-degree vocational certificates and diplomas.
3
Levels 7-10
Degrees, graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
All qualifications on the NZQF come with an assurance of quality recognized worldwide. The framework is also relevant for post-study work visas for international students.
Higher Education Options
Universities
All eight state-funded universities rank among the top 2% globally, offering programs from degree level to PhD.
Te Pūkenga
New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology offers applied learning with real-world experience from introductory to degree level.
Private Training Establishments
Around 550 PTEs offer specialist programs focused on career development, starting at foundation level.
Student Experience
Education here is really good. Students are encouraged to take initiative, to think on their own, and to come up with their own reasoning.
- Shin Yee Teh, from Malaysia, Bachelor of Commerce student at the University of Auckland
School System Overview
State Schools
85% of children attend state-funded public schools.
State-Integrated Schools
May be faith-based or use specialist teaching methods.
Private Schools
Independent schools with their own curriculum and standards.
New Zealand's school system allows learners to design an education that best meets their goals and personality, with choices in school type, location, and study program.
Secondary Education
NCEA
National Certificate of Educational Achievement - main qualification
International Options
Cambridge International Examinations and IB programs
Vocational Subjects
Tourism, computing, and other career-focused options
Secondary schools (ages 13-18, years 9-13) prepare students for higher education and careers through diverse qualification pathways.
Primary and Intermediate Education
Primary Schools
Ages 5-10 (Years 1-6)
Focus on National Curriculum subjects
Regular assessment of reading, writing, and math
Foundation for lifelong learning
Intermediate Schools
Ages 11-12 (Years 7-8)
Bridge between primary and secondary
Continued focus on core subjects
Introduction to specialized learning
Quality Assurance in Education
International Recognition
Globally respected qualifications
Government Oversight
Strong regulatory frameworks
Quality Standards
Rigorous assessment at all levels
The New Zealand government maintains robust quality assurance systems to ensure high-quality education across all levels of the education system, both public and private.
Need Help Deciding What to Study?
Talk to an VisaPlex Education Agent: info@visaplex.com
Education agents can provide assistance tailored to your needs, helping you learn about your options and giving advice to help you choose where to study.
Browse Courses by Area of Study
Use the  the course search tool (Coming soon) to  find programs that match your interests and career goals.
Explore Qualification Levels
Learn more about the different qualification levels available and how they align with your educational background and future aspirations.
Why Choose New Zealand for Your Education
Quality Education
Internationally recognized qualifications from top-ranked institutions
Innovative Learning
Emphasis on critical thinking and practical skills
Supportive Environment
Personalized attention in a diverse, welcoming community
Amazing Lifestyle
Study in one of the world's most beautiful and safe countries
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VisaPlex
My NZ Student Visa -by VisaPlex
Study in New Zealand as an International Student, study at schools, polytechnics, Universities. Enrollment and New Zealand student visa application. 