Why to study nursing in New Zealand and enjoy unique experiences
If you could study anywhere in the world and you discovered a place full of natural beauty and friendly people – and you could gain qualifications that are recognised and respected internationally, wouldn’t you want to study there? New Zealand has a reputation for training very good nurses who are in demand around the world, and for being a great place to study and live.
Why nursing study in New Zealand?
New Zealand is known for its healthcare system where cultural diversity and patient care are highly valued. Study programmes here are unique and offer a blend of quality education and real-life experiences in different clinical settings. You’ll learn in a friendly, supportive environment with lots of hands-on experience that will prepare you well for the real world.
You have the on-the-job training, and you also learn during the lecture about the scenarios. Those scenarios will help you too and boost your personality, your knowledge. And 100% of it you can apply when you come into the health sector field.
- Carlos, Filipino International Student
Enjoy a good work-life balance
The Kiwi culture is all about a relaxed lifestyle and wellbeing. We take every opportunity to get out and enjoy our mountains, lakes and streams; our beaches and forests; and our vibrant towns and cities. When you’re not studying, you’ll have lots of opportunities to enjoy these unique experiences for yourself – whether it’s soaking in the natural beauty of our breathtaking landscapes, learning about our rich Māori culture or trying out one of those exciting adventure activities New Zealand is famous for.
You’ll soon feel at home here
New Zealanders are famous for being open-minded and friendly. We welcome people from all cultures. As an international student, you will soon feel at home here and well-supported in your studies. You’ll be encouraged to socialise with other students and join groups where you can meet people. You’ll soon find yourself growing in confidence and independence and widening your knowledge of English at the same time.
And no matter where you choose to study there’s usually staff on campus ready to help you settle in and do well in your studies. Although most nursing courses include hands-on training there are written assignments too, but don’t worry, there is help on hand for developing your written English as well.
In China we focus on exams and tests and theory. In New Zealand, we focus on practical experience.
- Richard Jin, Chinese International Student.
How good are New Zealand qualifications?
The qualifications you’ll gain in New Zealand are highly regarded and sought-after by employers and other educational institutions around the world.
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority makes sure that New Zealand qualifications meet certain standards and come with an assurance of quality that is recognised and trusted worldwide.
Remember Jenny McGee, the New Zealand nurse who helped care for Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister when he had Covid-19?
Johnson publicly thanked "Jenny from Invercargill" for staying by his side during his hospitalisation for Covid-19, when things "could have gone either way".
Jenny studied for her nursing degree in the South Island of New Zealand and went on to make a real difference in the world. That’s how good New Zealand nursing qualifications are!
My education here set me up for a better future and to fulfil my dreams.
- Carlos Filipino International Student
What you’ll need to study nursing in New Zealand
To become a registered nurse in New Zealand, you must first complete a three-year Bachelor of Nursing degree or a two-year graduate entry master's degree.
There are other pathways for international students, including bachelor’s, master’s and diploma programmes. Check online to find out more about pathways into nursing.
Direct entry into a Bachelor of Nursing programme:
If you have the necessary academic qualifications and have good English language skills you can apply directly to a Bachelor of Nursing degree.
Pre-nursing pathway:
Some education providers offer pre-nursing courses or certificates to help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge before entering a Bachelor of Nursing degree.
Graduate entry master's in nursing:
If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a related field, you might be eligible for a graduate entry Master of Nursing programme.
Have you got what it takes to be a great nurse?
Nursing is a very rewarding career. To do well as a nurse you need to be trustworthy, calm, and have a commitment to lifelong learning. You’ll be caring for individuals, families and communities so it helps to have a mature outlook, a sense of responsibility and a genuine desire to care for people. You’ll need to be able to work independently and as part of a team.
Ready to make a difference in healthcare? Become a part of New Zealand's world-class nursing community and start your journey to a rewarding career today! Gain hands-on experience, study in a globally respected education system, and help shape the future of healthcare.
Nursing offers many different career opportunities and many options for professional development and postgraduate study.
Nurses are involved in all areas of health care and can go on to specialise in specific areas such as intensive care, community mental health, aged care, or child and adolescent nursing. They can also become a specialist in particular conditions, such as diabetes, respiratory care or cancer nursing.
Tip: If you’ve got a strong academic background in science and your English is good, you’ll have a better chance of being accepted.
Start by doing some research
Once you’ve decided to come to New Zealand to study nursing the next thing you need to do is find out about different education providers and what their programmes have to offer. Find out about enrolment dates and specific entry requirements. Be prepared for a face-to-face interview as part of the application process.
Explore these courses to find the perfect match for your future in healthcare!
Ready to make a difference in healthcare? Become a part of New Zealand's world-class nursing community and start your journey to a rewarding career today! Gain hands-on experience, study in a globally respected education system, and help shape the future of healthcare.
What type of visa do you need to study in New Zealand?
If you’re interested in studying in New Zealand, you’ll need to apply for a student visa from Immigration New Zealand and have this approved before you’re able to start your studies.
The video on this website will give you an idea about what’s involved when applying for the Fee-Paying Student Visa and gives tips to help you prepare and submit your application.
Keen to know more?
Watch this live Q and A session where Filipino student Carlos talks about his healthcare journey, what he learnt about studying in New Zealand and how the experience helped him become more confident about himself, and his future career prospects.
Richard Jin from China talks about studying Veterinary Nursing in New Zealand and how much he enjoyed the hands-on experience caring for animals in the community.
About the contributors
Related content
Take the next step
Sign up to learn more and stay up to date with the latest information on studying with New Zealand.