If you’re planning to study in New Zealand from Sri Lanka, you’re not alone. Each year, hundreds of Sri Lankan students choose New Zealand for its world-class education, safe environment, and excellent post-study opportunities. Whether you’re after a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or diploma program, New Zealand offers flexible, career-oriented pathways for your future.
Why Study in New Zealand?
New Zealand’s education system is globally recognized. Universities like the University of Auckland, University of Otago, and Victoria University of Wellington consistently rank high in international rankings. What makes New Zealand unique is the balance between academic excellence and a relaxed, multicultural lifestyle.
Key benefits for Sri Lankan students:
- Globally ranked universities
- Affordable tuition compared to the UK or Australia
- Work up to 20 hours/week during studies
- Post-study work visa of up to 3 years
- Potential to apply for PR after work experience
- High demand for skilled graduates in IT, Healthcare, Engineering & more
It’s also one of the top choices for Sri Lankan students looking for high-quality education and future opportunities abroad.
Top Universities in New Zealand
New Zealand has 8 state-funded universities, all ranked globally. Some of the popular options among Sri Lankan students include:
- University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- Massey University
- University of Canterbury
- Victoria University of Wellington
You can choose from a wide range of courses such as Business, IT, Engineering, Hospitality, and Health Sciences.
We offer admission assistance for following institutions
- AUT University
- University of Waikato
- Massey University
- Victoria University of Auckland
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) Nelson
- Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) Auckland
- North Tec
- Waiariki Institute of Technology
- Waikato Institute of Technology
- Otago Polytechnic – Dunedin, Auckland
- Whiteria, Auckland
- UNITEC, Auckland
- Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology
- Bay of Plenty College
- Manaukau Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Southern Institute of Technology
- Tai Poutini Polytechnic
- Wellington Institute of Technology (Weltac)
- Western Institute of Technology (WITT)
- Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)
- Making Futures Happen International Institute
- Royal Business College
- Newton College of Business and Technology
- Kiwi Institute of Technology & Education
- Edenz College, Auckland
- National Tertiary Education Consortium (NTEC), Auckland
- Linguis International Institute
- Royal Business College
- AVOMORE & NZIE
- Quantum College, Auckland
- Queens Academic Group
- International Academy of New Zealand (IANZ)
- New Zealand School of Education
- National Institute of Studies
- International College of Auckland (ICA)
- AIS St Helens
- Northshore International Academy (NSIA)
- New Zeland Management Academies (NZMA)
- Pacific International Hotel Management School (PIHMS)
- New Zealand Career College (NZCC)
- UUNZ Intitute of Business
- Sir George Seymour and travel Careers & Training Ltd
- Yoobee School of Design, Auckland
- D&A Design & Arts College of New Zealand & Elite International Scholl
- ICNZ
- International Pacific University (IPU)
- International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC)
- New Zealand College of Business
- New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC)
- Cornell Institute of Business & Technology
- New Zealand Academic and Learning Institute (NZALI)
- New Zealand Institute of Business and Technology (NZIBT)
- New Zealand Institute of Technical Training
Most of the above universities are represented through our business associates
📚 Top Programs Popular Among Sri Lankan Students
- IT & Software Engineering
- Business & Management
- Nursing and Healthcare
- Construction & Quantity Surveying
- Early Childhood Education
These courses are not only popular but also aligned with New Zealand’s skill shortage list, boosting your PR chances after graduation.
Scholarships for Sri Lankan Students
If you’re looking for financial support, here are some scholarship options:
- New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) – offered by Education New Zealand
- University-specific scholarships like the University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship
- Commonwealth Scholarships for postgraduate studies
Cost of Studying and Living
Here’s a general estimate:
- Tuition Fees: NZ$ 22,000–35,000 per year
- Living Expenses: NZ$ 15,000–18,000 per year
- Work While You Study: Up to 20 hours per week during term, full-time in holidays
New Zealand also offers Post Study Work Visas, a great pathway to gain international work experience.
🛂 How to Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa
To apply for a student visa, you’ll need:
- An offer letter from a New Zealand education provider
- Proof of sufficient funds (tuition + living expenses)
- English language proficiency (usually IELTS or PTE)
- A valid passport and medical certificates
At Alpha Immigration and Education Consultants, we guide you step by step, from course selection to visa application.
📌 Check out Student Visa Guide for New Zealand
🏡 Can You Get PR After Studying in New Zealand?
Yes! Once you complete your course and gain relevant work experience, you can apply for:
- Post Study Work Visa (up to 3 years)
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Residence Visa
The PR pathway from student to permanent resident is one of the major reasons students choose to study in New Zealand from Sri Lanka.
How Alpha Immigration Can Help
At Alpha Immigration and Education Consultants, we:
- Represent top universities in New Zealand
- Guide you through the entire visa and admission process
- Assist with SOPs, documentation, and interview prep
- Help you plan for scholarships and PR pathways
🎓 Let our experienced team guide you from Sri Lanka to New Zealand with confidence.
📞 Contact us today to begin your journey.