New Zealand Schools. A new
way to learn.
New Zealand’s K12 education system consistently ranks
amongst the best in the world.
The benefits of New Zealand Schools
You can be confident New Zealand will meet the highest education standards
- The latest PISA results show that eight percent of New Zealand students were top all-round students, double the OECD average.
- New Zealand students' PISA scores for literacy, maths and science are amongst the highest in the world.
- All schools adhere to standards set and rigorously monitored by the New Zealand Government.
The first country to introduce a Code of Practice to protect international students
The Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students is monitored by the New Zealand Government, covering the entire education process, which all schools must follow. The Code provides an expectation of standards, advice and pastoral support to international students.
Top rankings for peace and prosperity
New Zealand is ranked the 2nd most peaceful country by the Global Peace Index. It's also the 2nd least corrupt nation, according to the Transparency International Corruption perception Index. The 2018 Legatum Prosperity Index ranks New Zealand as 2nd, ahead of the USA, UK and Australia.
Every New Zealand school adheres to a quality assurance system
The regulatory system allows students and their families to feel confident about choosing the school that best meets their needs.
Here, every student can achieve their best and reach their potential
- Students enjoy focused, personal attention from passionate and caring teachers.
- Study involves a balance of practical and theoretical learning.
- Students are encouraged to think creatively, independently & analytically.
The New Zealand education system gives students everything they need
Our system allows students to design an education that best meets their needs and personality. They can choose the type of school and its location, as well as the ideal study programme within a fresh new environment.
New Zealand is a diverse country. So is our education system
Students can choose from schools that are girls only, boys only or have both. Accommodation options vary and include homestays and on-campus boarding facilities.
The New Zealand school system
A flexible, supportive pathway that gives students the skills and qualifications to succeed anywhere in the world.
See where you fit in
Ages 5-10
Primary
Build a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy and a broad and balanced curriculum.
Ages 11-12
Intermediate
Introduction to specialist subjects in preparation for secondary school. Learn a broad, balanced curriculum and develop individual thought.
Ages 13-18
Secondary
Focus on subject-based learning, with growing opportunities to specialise as the student progresses.
Qualifications that open new futures
New Zealand offers a great range of education qualifications that are internationally recognised and easily transferable.
National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA)
New Zealand's main national schools qualification. Can also include the University Entrance qualification and is recognised by many countries, including the United States, Britain and Australia when attained at NCEA level 3.
The Cambridge Examinations
Approximately 60 New Zealand secondary schools offer this qualification. It can be attained at three levels in either year 11, 12 or 13 and uses a range of assessment methods with the emphasis on external exams. Coursework and internal assessment are also part of many subjects.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Developed in Geneva, the IB is designed to provide an internationally accepted qualification for entry to higher education. There are 21 World Schools in New Zealand offering one or more of the three IB programmes.
See what real students have to say
Our education experts and schools can help you make the best decision
Get help choosing the right school
Our experts have complete knowledge of New Zealand schools. They can work with you to find the course, institution and region of New Zealand that perfectly suits your needs.
Visa and paperwork
You will need to organise the relevant documents and our experts can help you get everything sorted.
Local experts all over the world
Wherever you are, you'll be able to find a New Zealand expert who can help you find the right information about studying in New Zealand.
Next steps
School representative
If you'd like to handle things yourself and know what or where you’d like to study, a representative from a School can give you all the information you need.
Education New Zealand Recognised Agency
Recognised Agencies have a commitment to providing quality service and assistance to students who want to study in New Zealand.
Still not sure?
Contact an agent to discuss your options.
See what people are saying or ask us for advice any time.
Still picking your study options?
1 Choose a programme of study and an institution
Planning your budget?
2 Search for scholarships to help pay your expenses
What's this?Next
You’ll see this icon when you’re viewing one of our 5 steps to studying in New Zealand.
It will show you the step number you’re on and other things to do in that step.
Sign up here so we can make sure any tools or tips we send you about studying in New Zealand are relevant and personalised especially for you.
Please complete all of the fields below.
Please enter a valid email address.
Please enter a first name.
Please enter a last name.
Please select a country.
Please select a valid date (MM/YYYY).
Thanks for subscribing