• New Zealand

How does the New Zealand Education System work?

1064 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Oct 16,2023 04:18 PM IST

New Zealand’s education system continues to excel in literacy and ranks well by global standards. The country is influenced by a wide employment market and an increasingly mobile network of teaching staff, researchers and a well-travelled population of students.

How does the New Zealand Education System work.webp

The Education System of New Zealand has a national curriculum which applies to all state schools and state-integrated schools. The curriculum describes the key competencies and learning outcomes people need in order to live, learn, work and contribute as active members of their communities rather than prescribing what school students must learn or what teachers must teach.

A variety of special projects in specific areas of the curriculum are making a difference, especially in ages and groups. Community involvement and meeting each student’s needs are fundamental principles.

How does the New Zealand Education System work?

There are ample reasons for international students to study in New Zealand. New Zealand offers a very supportive environment for its international students. The support for international students goes even further than the classroom, with the New Zealand government being the first in the world to create a code of practice that outlines a standard of care for international students both in the classroom and outside of it.

The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) is a system for acknowledging the level and quality of qualifications offered by New Zealand education providers.

new zealand qualification framework.webp

Detailed explanation of qualification levels

Certificate

New Zealand Certificate qualifications may be approved at several levels. All certificates must comprise at least 40 credits. Certificate qualifications are delivered at levels 1-5.

What are Credits?

A total of 120 credits is considered an annual full-time study loan for a student. 120 credits are equivalent to 60 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). Each credit represents 10 learning hours (both face-to-face and self-directed learning).

Diploma

New Zealand Diploma qualifications may be approved at levels 5-7. They must be at least 120 credits. New Zealand Diploma qualifications are delivered at levels 5 and 6, both one and two-year diplomas.

Degree

The degree gives a systematic and coherent introduction to a body of knowledge of a recognized major subject. It requires a minimum of 360 credits from levels 5 to 7 and gives eligibility to enrol in a postgraduate qualification.

Graduate Certificate

It broadens or deepens skills learnt in an undergraduate degree and requires a minimum of 60 credits, with a minimum of 40 at level 7 or above.

Graduate diploma

It broadens knowledge and skills in a familiar subject or discipline or develops skills in a new area. It requires a minimum of 120 credits, of which 72 credits must be at level 7 or above.

Bachelor Honors Degree

It may be either a 480-credit degree or a discrete, 120-credit degree following a bachelor’s degree. It requires a minimum of 120 credits at level 8, with a research component that represents at least 30 credits at that level.

Postgraduate Certificate

It is open to those with a Bachelor’s degree or Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in a relevant subject. It requires a minimum of 60 credits at level 8 and provides the basis for further postgraduate study.

Postgraduate Diploma

It is open to those who have completed all requirements of the relevant Bachelor’s Degree, Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma. It may make one eligible to enrol in a Master’s Degree and requires a minimum of 120 credits from levels 7 and above, with a minimum of 72 credits from level 8.

Master’s Degree

It has a minimum entry requirement of a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent. It must include at least 40 credits at level 9, with the remainder at level 8. It may give one eligibility to apply for admission to a program of advanced study.

How Does the New Zealand Education System Work? Universities and Programs

For international students, there are various things to know when planning to study in New Zealand. Students attend university to undertake bachelor's degrees or postgraduate courses (including certificates, postgraduate diplomas, master programs). Students can take higher education courses to earn an advanced degree and continue their studies in New Zealand. Teaching at universities normally takes place in large-group lectures and small-group tutorials.

University/College	Programs/Courses
Aspire 2 International	Level 7 • Graduate Diploma in Applied Management Level 8 • Postgraduate diploma in Digital Transformation in Business
Auckland Institute of Studies	Level 7 • Bachelor of Business Level 8 • Post Graduate Diploma in business Administration Level 9 • Master of Business Administration
Auckland University of Technology	Level 7 • Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science Level 8 • Bachelor of Arts (Honors) with a Specialization in Education Level 9 • Master of Analytics
Massey University	Level 7 • B.Sc. Arts-Media Studies Level 8 • Bachelor of Engineering(Honors) in electronics and Computer Engineer Level 9 • Executive Master of Business Administration
Manukau Institute of Technology	Level 7 • Bachelor of Accounting Level 8 • Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Technologies Level 9 • Master of Applied Technology
Media Design School Otago Polytechnic	Level 7 • Bachelor of Art and Design – 3D Animation and VFX Level 8 • Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Management-Business Information Systems
New Zealand Skills and Education College Unitech Institute of Technology	Level 7 • Diploma in Applied Network and Cloud Technology Level 8 • Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Business

The New Zealand Education System offers qualifications across all of the NZQF levels, from Certificates to Doctoral Degrees.

International students consider New Zealand as an emerging education destination. The New Zealand qualification has ten levels of qualifications, each based on complexity. Level 1 is the least complex, and level 10 is the most complex. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the level, the longer the time to complete it due to the learning material and credits required to achieve the full qualification.

New Zealand Education System Admission Requirements

Graduate Certificate/ Diploma (Level 7)

Minimum level of education required to be accepted into this program:

• Students must hold at minimum a level 6 diploma in the following areas- technology and/or technology-related or management-related from a recognized institution.

• IELTS : With no band less than 5.5

• PTE : Minimum overall score- 50

Postgraduate Diplomas (Level 8)

Minimum level of education required to be accepted into this program; applicants must have a relevant Bachelor’s degree.

• IELTS: With no band less than 6.0

• PTE: Minimum Overall Score- 58

Postgraduate degrees (Level 9)

Minimum level of education required to be accepted into this program; applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree.

• IELTS : With no band less than 6.0

• TOEFL : Minimum overall score- 79.0

• PTE : Minimum overall score- 58

For complete guidance on how the New Zealand Education System works, contact Canam Consultants.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s education system follows a variety of flexible structure that covers all the years of schooling and is compulsory from year 1 to 10. New Zealand has specific programs for formative assessment, known as assessment for learning. Such assessments become formative when the evidence is actually used to adapt the teaching to meet the student’s learning needs. The New Zealand Education System has been designed to strengthen the evidence base that informs education policy and practice.

FAQ

What is special about the New Zealand education system?

Education in New Zealand is a student-centred pathway providing continuous learning progression and choice so that students’ progress every year and their learning at one level sets the foundation for the next steps along a chosen pathway.

How much percentage is required to study in New Zealand?

Many universities in New Zealand require students to have at least approximately 65% to 75% in their earlier degree qualifications.

How much does it cost to live and study in New Zealand?

An international student’s annual cost of living in New Zealand is approximately 1,500 NZD, and to study in New Zealand is an additional expense of approximately 35,000 NZD.

How many levels of education are there in New Zealand?

Education level in New Zealand is a three-tier structure consisting of primary level, secondary level, and tertiary level at polytechnics and universities.

What is New Zealand unique for?

New Zealand is unique for scenes of sweeping, verdant landscapes and pristine wilderness abound. It is also known for its rich culture, friendly locals, and excellent food and wine.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

INTO Group - Illinois State University

Illinois, USA • 268 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 27000-38000 / year

St. Lawrence College - Brockville Campus

Ontario, Canada • 12 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17500-23500 / year

University of Chester - Creative Campus, Kingsway

England, UK • 33 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 12950-12950 / year

National Louis University - Florida Campus

Florida, USA • 10 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 12000-13000 / year

MacEwan University

Alberta, Canada • 47 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 21500-27000 / year

EDUCO - Roanoke College

Virginia, USA • 48 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 33000-34000 / year

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus

Auckland, New Zealand • 10 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 17000-20000 / year

Health Careers International (HCI) Group - Institute of Health and Nursing Australia (IHNA) - Sydney Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 7500-8000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Dubai

5th June to 15th June • 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

In-Person Event

University Visits - Humber college

Study in Canada • University Visit

Chandigarh • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Dalhousie University

Study in Canada • University Visit

Mumbai - Andheri West • 10:30AM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

LLM in Australia: Top Universities, Eligibility, Courses, Scholarship for Indian Students

Master in Laws (LLM) is a globally recognised postgraduate degree designed to broaden the legal knowledge of students. LLM (Master of Laws) in Austral...

Updated on • Apr 26,2024 05:26 PM IST • Australia

Cost of Studying in UK

Did you know Brits drink about 100 million cups of tea daily? That sounds a lot, but that's not the only astounding fact about the UK; apparently, the...

Updated on • Apr 26,2024 03:18 PM IST • UK

SOP for MBA - Format, Samples and Expert Tips

A statement of purpose (SOP) is essential for an MBA application and allows students to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations ...

Updated on • Apr 26,2024 03:11 PM IST • SOP

Why Study in Ireland ?

Ireland is the only English-speaking country in the Eurozone, which is home to the world's most reputed universities and colleges, famous for their we...

Updated on • Apr 25,2024 03:43 PM IST • Ireland

Why study in Canada?

The thought of international education and studying in Canada go hand in hand, and there’s an interesting reason for this. The thing is, almost 80% ...

Updated on • Apr 23,2024 12:15 PM IST • Study in Canada

Timeline for USA Summer Intake: Deadlines & Universities Requirements

Studying in the USA provides high-quality education with diverse academic programs along with personal and professional growth opportunities. The Unit...

Updated on • Apr 19,2024 03:45 PM IST • USA

Difference between IELTS & IELTS UKVI

IELTS is one of the most popular language proficiency exams for studying abroad. The test has many versions, such as IELTS Academic, IELTS General Tra...

Updated on • Apr 18,2024 05:42 PM IST • IELTS

Study in Canada after 12th

Canada is a popular study abroad destination for international students seeking to study in Canada after 12th due to its world-class education system,...

Updated on • Apr 18,2024 01:33 PM IST • Study in Canada

Describe Your Hometown IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic

The IELTS Speaking part 1 topic ‘Describe your Hometown’ is one of the most often asked and easiest topics to answer in an IELTS test. In this top...

Updated on • Apr 15,2024 01:35 PM IST • IELTS

How can you Apply to University in Canada for Indian Students?

Studying in Canada is a dream of many international students today. There were 642,480 international students in Canada in December 2019, ...

Updated on • Apr 13,2024 01:36 PM IST • Study in Canada • Colleges in Canada

PTE Score Chart 2024: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Apr 13,2024 11:39 AM IST • PTE

Study in New Zealand without IELTS

English language proficiency is necessary to seek education opportunities in New Zealand. As an English-speaking country, it is well-known for its col...

Updated on • Apr 11,2024 05:36 PM IST • New Zealand

Tips to Write a Great GRE Analytical Essay

The GRE looms as a hurdle for many postgraduate aspirants, but for some, it harbors a hidden gateway: The Analytical Writing Issue Essay. This blog co...

Updated on • Apr 11,2024 10:03 AM IST • Education

Top 5 Mistakes CELPIP Test Takers Make

The CELPIP exam is Canada’s leading exam that students take to get permanent residency in Canada or pursue a professional course there. Therefore, i...

Updated on • Apr 10,2024 05:38 PM IST • CELPIP

Study and Work in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

Australia is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for international students. It is famous for its natural wonders, wide-open spaces, bea...

Updated on • Apr 05,2024 12:59 PM IST • Australia

Social Media Vocabulary IELTS

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) measures a student’s language proficiency. Its Speaking section further evaluates the abil...

Updated on • Apr 04,2024 11:43 AM IST • IELTS

Crime & Punishment Essay IELTS

Crime & Punishment Essay Titles The list below gives out essay titles on crime and punishment that might appear in the IELTS exam. These ess...

Updated on • Apr 02,2024 10:31 AM IST • IELTS

Believing These 8 Myths About IELTS Keeps You From Growing

Believing These 8 Myths About IELTS Keeps You From GrowingOnce you start thinking about taking IELTS Examination, you might end up believing in cert...

Updated on • Apr 02,2024 09:49 AM IST • IELTS

20 Common IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2

"This blog discusses some common essay topics which appear as writing Task 2 in the IELTS Exam. The blog further talks about the subtopics of essays i...

Updated on • Apr 01,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS

Masters in Psychology in Canada: Best Universities, Eligibility, Documents, Admissions Process and Scholarships

Masters in Psychology in Canada is a popular two-year course that allows students to embark on a journey to understand human behavior better. The one ...

Updated on • Mar 29,2024 11:47 AM IST • Study in Canada

How does the New Zealand Education System work?

Table of Contents

How does the New Zealand Education System work?

Detailed explanation of qualification levels

Certificate

What are Credits?

Diploma

Degree

Graduate Certificate

Graduate diploma

Bachelor Honors Degree

Postgraduate Certificate

Postgraduate Diploma

Master’s Degree

How Does the New Zealand Education System Work? Universities and Programs

New Zealand Education System Admission Requirements

Graduate Certificate/ Diploma (Level 7)

Postgraduate Diplomas (Level 8)

Postgraduate degrees (Level 9)

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams