Understand the options before you choose.
New Zealand has universities, institutes of technology and private training establishments, each with different strengths. Here’s how to make sense of them.
Types of education providers
Universities
Degree and postgraduate study with a strong research base.Institutes of technology and polytechnics
Applied, career-focused certificates, diplomas and degrees, often with industry placements.Private training establishments
Specialist providers in areas such as business, hospitality and IT, often with flexible intakes.Schools
For families with school-aged children: state, state-integrated and private schools.
Qualification levels
New Zealand qualifications sit on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF), from level 1 to 10.
- L1Certificate
- L2Certificate
- L3Certificate
- L4Certificate
- L5Diploma
- L6Diploma
- L7Bachelor’s / Graduate diploma
- L8Postgraduate diploma / Honours
- L9Master’s
- L10Doctorate
Simplified overview. Each provider publishes the level of every qualification it offers.
How to compare courses
Level and duration
Make sure the qualification level matches your goal, and check how long it really takes.Published fees
Check the fee year and whether it’s per year or total. Add living costs on top.Budget plannerIntakes
Many courses start in February or July; some have more intakes.Entry and English requirements
Always check the provider’s current published requirements.Where it leads
Look at progression into further study, using what providers publish.Explore pathways
Education pathways describe how qualifications lead to further study. They are not immigration pathways, and no course guarantees a visa or residence outcome.
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