Study in New Zealand: Key Application Terms

Last Updated on 11 March 2026
If you’re planning to pursue an undergraduate degree in New Zealand, you’ll come across several application and visa-related terms during the process. Below are some of the most important terms international students should know.

Table of Contents

  • Chest X-ray Certificate (INZ 1096): A Chest X-ray Certificate (INZ 1096) may be required for student visa applicants to screen for tuberculosis (TB). Students typically need this certificate if they:
    • Are staying in New Zealand for more than six months
    • Are from or have recently lived in countries with higher TB incidence.

  • Fee-Paying Student Visa: The Fee-Paying Student Visa is the most common visa for international students who are paying their own tuition fees (or using family funds, loans, or partial scholarships). This visa allows students to:
    • Study full-time at an approved New Zealand education provider
    • Stay in the country for the duration of their programme (up to around four years depending on the course)

  • Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS):  The Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS) is a secure way for students from some countries to transfer funds to support themselves while they are in New Zealand. It is an Immigration New Zealand (INZ) scheme, operated by ANZ Bank New Zealand Limited. Usually, INZ will ask you to use the FTS so that we can see you have genuine access to funds to support yourself while studying in New Zealand.

  • Genuine Student Requirement (Genuine Intentions): When applying for a student visa, applicants must demonstrate genuine intentions to study in New Zealand. Immigration New Zealand evaluates whether the student truly plans to study and follow the conditions of the visa. Officials may consider:
    • The student’s academic background
    • Previous immigration history
    • Evidence provided in the visa application
    • Proof of meeting academic or English language requirements

  • INZ 1012 Form: The INZ 1012 form is the official Student Visa Application form issued by Immigration New Zealand. While most international students now apply online, this form is still used in some cases, such as:
    • Dependent student visas
    • Limited visas for study
    • Paper-based applications in specific circumstances

  • Medical Certificate (INZ 1007): International students may need to submit a General Medical Certificate (INZ 1007) as part of their visa application. This document confirms that the applicant meets New Zealand’s acceptable standard of health for immigration purposes. It is typically required if the student intends to stay in New Zealand for more than 12 months, or Immigration officials request additional health checks.

  • Offer of Place: An Offer of Place is an official letter issued by a New Zealand education provider confirming that you have been accepted into a programme. International students who plan to study in New Zealand for more than three months typically need this document before applying for a student visa. The offer letter usually includes details such as:
    • The programme and duration of study
    • Tuition fees and payment details
    • Whether the programme is full-time or part-time
    • Confirmation that the institution believes the programme is suitable for the student

  • Proof of Funds: Applicants for a New Zealand student visa must show they have enough funds to support themselves during their studies. Evidence can include:
    • Bank statements
    • Education loans
    • Proof of sponsorship

Confirmation that living expenses or accommodation have already been paid

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