Study in the UK vs New Zealand: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for the UK and New Zealand— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | the UK | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 10,539 GBP | 20,000 NZD |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,171 GBP | 1,667 NZD |
| Visa fee | 524 GBP | 430 NZD |
| Typical processing time | ~3 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Jan, Sep | Feb, Jul |
| Required documents | 5 | 6 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: the UK vs New Zealand
- New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €12,399 for the UK (≈ €1,163 less).
- the UK is typically faster to process (~3 weeks vs ~8 for New Zealand).
- the UK asks for fewer required documents (5).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to the UK
- CAS from a licensed student sponsor
- Maintenance funds (held 28 days)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Approved English language proof (SELT)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate
- ATAS certificate
Unique to New Zealand
- Offer of place
- Funds requirement
- Onward travel funds
- Medical & travel insurance
- English language proof
- Medical / chest X-ray
- Police certificate
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in the UK or New Zealand?
By proof of funds, New Zealand is cheaper — €11,236/year versus €12,399 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, the UK or New Zealand?
the UK typically processes faster (~3 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in the UK or New Zealand?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €12,399 for the UK (≈ €1,163 less). the UK is typically faster to process (~3 weeks vs ~8 for New Zealand). the UK asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.