Study to Become a Teacher in New Zealand
Thinking about becoming a teacher?
Start your teaching journey in a safe, welcoming country that offers globally recognised qualifications and real classroom experience.
With ongoing demand for teachers, graduates can have great career opportunities, including potential pathways to stay and work in New Zealand.
Why study teaching in New Zealand?
Globally recognised qualifications
New Zealand’s teacher‑education programmes are internationally recognised and aligned with rigorous standards that ensure a strong balance of theory and extensive practical classroom experience.
High demand for future teachers
There’s real demand for teachers and opportunities to build your career after you graduate, with teaching roles recognised as priority on New Zealand’s Green List.
Safe, welcoming, and multicultural
New Zealand welcomes international students, offering a diverse and inclusive environment. Our education system encourages creativity and innovation, prioritizing well-being and embracing cultural diversity.
"New Zealand has very high standards, up‑to‑date teaching techniques and modern learning environments."
Renée Balcazar — Graduate Diploma of Teaching at Victoria University of Wellington.
Frequently asked questions
Many New Zealand institutions offer teaching programmes for international students, including universities and institutes of technology. You can explore courses, compare providers, and check entry requirements here.
Yes, you can generally work while studying, typically for up to 25 hours a week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled holidays. However, your specific work rights depend on your visa conditions and the length of your course. Please refer to Immigration New Zealand’s website for more information.(external link that opens in a new tab)
You don’t need a background in education to start a teaching degree. If you’re beginning your studies, you can enrol in an undergraduate teaching programme, and if you already have a degree, you can take a graduate teaching qualification. Check courses and entry requirements here.
After you finish your studies, you may be able to stay and work in New Zealand through options like the Post Study Work Visa(external link that opens in a new tab), which allows you to gain local work experience. From there, some graduates may become eligible for longer-term pathways, including skilled work visas or residency, depending on their qualifications and job opportunities. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to check the latest information on the Immigration New Zealand website(external link that opens in a new tab).
The Green List is a list of occupations in high demand in New Zealand, offering faster pathways to residency for qualified workers. Studying a course that leads to an in-demand job can make it easier to get residency after graduation. Find more information here(external link that opens in a new tab).
See how students are turning their passion for teaching into a real career.
Meet Arabella Wu, a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) graduate who gained real classroom experience that helped her build the confidence and skills to turn her passion for working with young children into a meaningful career.
Stories to inspire
From study to teaching career
Discover how studying education in New Zealand helps students gain real classroom experience and future opportunities.
Be inspired by those who teach
Learn how passionate educators in New Zealand are shaping the next generation of changemakers.
Turn your passion into a career
Learn more about how studying in New Zealand led to Arabella dream job in early childhood.
A future focused approach to teaching
Discover how New Zealand educates the teachers of the future.
Keep Exploring
Cost of living
The cost of living is similar to other OECD countries and is combined with an excellent work/life balance and a high quality of life.
Work and studying
You can enjoy a world-class education, gaining valuable skills and qualifications, with the benefit of working part-time while you study.
Living in New Zealand
Discover what it’s like to be a student here. Learn about the different types of accommodation. Explore our cities and regions, and find out about the cost of living.
Higher education
New Zealand's higher education system offers a wide range of programmes and education providers to choose from, in any region of the country.
Curious about what other careers could fast-track your residency in New Zealand?
Sign up to learn more about study and career pathways that could help you stay and build a future here.