Kiwi Fern study guidance

Study, work and build your life in New Zealand

Clear information for international students and migrants, with practical tools for choosing a place, planning costs and preparing for work.

Explore study options

Explore by location

See where New Zealand’s main tertiary providers are located.

Select a marker to view representative universities and polytechnics in that location. Use it as a starting point, then check the provider’s website for the exact campus and programme.

New Zealand 1:3,000,000 topographic map from Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand

Select a gold location marker

Sourced from New Zealand 1:3,000,000 topographic map. Crown Copyright Reserved. ↗

Your research shortlist

Save providers while you compare locations.

This is a research list, not a recommendation. It remains only in this browser and is not sent to Kiwi Fern.

Location guide: Markers are approximate and the list is not a complete directory of every campus, private training establishment or programme. Delivery locations can change; confirm the exact campus with the provider before applying.

Cost planning

Build a budget for the place where you will actually live.

Use this planning tool to test a weekly living budget. The example amounts are editable and are not a quote, a fee estimate or confirmation that you meet any visa requirement.

Weeks in your plan

Accommodation per weekNZD $Food per weekNZD $Transport per weekNZD $Power, internet and phone per weekNZD $Personal and recreation per weekNZD $Initial setup and contingencyNZD $

Planning estimate for 52 weeks$27,780$515 per week, plus $1,000 for setup and contingency

What the example uses

Study with New Zealand currently publishes examples including accommodation from $140 to $484 a week, basic groceries from $80 to $120 a week and public transport up to $37 a week. We use editable mid-range examples rather than presenting one figure as suitable for everyone.

Remember to add separately

Tuition, compulsory course costs, insurance, flights, visa-related costs, rental bond, clothing, medical needs and family expenses are not automatically included in the calculator.

View official cost examples ↗

Sources checked 19 August 2026. Always recheck official figures before applying or paying.

Studying in New Zealand

Compare providers, programmes, regions, student life and what to prepare before arrival.

Explore the study guide →

Speak with our team

Need help choosing your next step?

Use the guided assistant or send your questions to the Kiwi Fern team.

Send an enquiry