Do you want to study in New Zealand but are confused about where to start and which course to consider? Opting for green list courses in New Zealand can be a great way to kickstart your career and pave the way to residency. Green list courses are diploma programs to gain practical skills, work rights during and after your studies, and eligibility for post-study work options. The New Zealand government has listed highly skilled occupations requiring talented people outside New Zealand to fill these roles.
If you want to study in New Zealand, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today? Our educational consultants will discuss your study options in New Zealand and will help you apply.
What is the Green List in New Zealand?
Green List is a short diploma or skill-based course on the Immigration New Zealand Skills Shortage List. These vocational programs are offered at polytechnics and technical institutes to provide practical, hands-on learning to prepare for the job market. The Green List Diplomas are at Levels 4,5 and 6, and the Graduate Diploma at Level 7 on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. The courses provide two main pathways for residency. Qualifying in a Green List diploma course makes you eligible for a post-study work visa.
What are Green List Diploma Courses in New Zealand?
Green List courses are highly in demand in New Zealand, as they offer numerous jobs. The programs comprise 85 job opportunities in fields such as engineering, primary industries, research, electronics, communications, and health and social services.
The New Zealand Green List covers the following occupations:
- Food Technologists
- Engineering
- Technicians
- Project Builders
- Medical Laboratory Technicians
- Veterinarians
- Psychiatric Providers
- Environmental Research Scientists
These programs enable you to obtain a work visa after completing your studies. Some of them are as follows:
- Graduate diploma in electrical engineering
- Graduate diploma in construction management
- Graduate diploma in electrical engineering
- Graduate diploma in teaching
- New Zealand diploma in civil engineering
Benefits of Green List Diploma Courses in New Zealand
By enrolling in the green list for New Zealand, you can improve your academic qualifications and professional opportunities. These programs are designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in relevant fields.
1. Skill and Industry-Based Teaching and Learning
The Green List diploma programs in New Zealand help you gain practical skills and hands-on training that will prepare you for the demands of your chosen career domain in the real-world job market.
2. Internationally-Recognised Education
New Zealand is known for its quality education and academic excellence. Therefore, a diploma from a reputed institution or university opens doors to different career paths and opportunities worldwide.
3. English Language Competency
Learning English at any New Zealand institution can be challenging and beneficial if English is not your first language. The English-speaking courses can greatly assist today’s global job market.
4. Various Supports and Services for International Students
New Zealand educational institutions offer various facilities to students, such as orientation programs, academic help, job placement services, and advice on finding housing.
5. Post-Study Work Opportunities
After graduating, you become eligible to work post-study work rights of 1 to 3 years. You also get the opportunity to work part-time during your studies, which helps you to learn and experience.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Green List courses in New Zealand are as follows:
- You must score at least 60% grade point average in 10+2 to take a diploma course in New Zealand.
- To take a postgraduate diploma course in New Zealand, you must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 60%.
- Qualifying for an English proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, is recommended. Many New Zealand universities and institutions accept the English language skills test scores.
- You will receive a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or above
Admission Process
1. Choose the institution and course to study
The first step is to decide on a course specialisation or field of study and a postgraduate school you want to attend. Check all the relevant information, such as course description, living and tuition fees, work permit requirements, and other crucial information.
2. Provide all Academic and Language Requirements
After choosing the academic institution, assemble all required documents and academic transcripts. This includes your academic transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL scores, SOP, LOR, and copies of passport and identity proof documents.
3. Register Online
Once you have collected all your information and documents, visit the selected institution's website and apply for the course. Make sure to provide correct information and upload documents as per the specifications. Recheck all the details and submit the application form.
4. Wait for the Decision
Now, wait for the response from the university/institution. The university authorities take a few weeks to evaluate the application form. After accepting the offer letter, look for accommodations and submit applications for scholarships and loans for education.
Best Green List Diploma Courses in New Zealand
Here are some of the top Green List Diploma Programs in New Zealand for international students -
Industry |
Role |
University |
Average Course fees |
Construction |
Construction Project Manager and Surveyor |
University of Canterbury |
$57,701 |
Healthcare |
Cardiologist, Clinical Psychologist, and Anaesthetist |
University of Auckland | University of Otago | Victoria University of Wellington |
$26,323 - $37,527 |
Information Technology |
Software Engineer and Telecommunications Engineer |
Auckland University of Technology | Otago University |
$43,000 - $44,774 |
Engineering |
Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer, and Mechanical Engineer |
Waikato Institute of Technology | Otago Polytechnic | Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology |
$18,112 - $63,895 |
Documents Required
The list of documents required while applying for the Green List New Zealand are as follows:
- Academic transcripts - mark sheets and certificates of previously studied programs
- English skills test scores - IELTS/TOEFL qualifying scores
- Passport - certified copies of two passport pages with photo, personal details, and expiry date. The passport should be valid for the entire duration of the study.
- Letter of recommendation (LOR)- 2 LORs from your teachers and professors mentioning your skills and dedication.
- Statement of Purpose - A short essay of 500 to 1000 words showcasing your motivation, interests, and goals while studying in New Zealand
- Updated CV - An updated CV mentioning all your achievements, educational and professional backgrounds
- Health Certificate - medical certificate and documents showcasing your health reports
Residency in New Zealand After Green List Diploma
After completing a New Zealand Green List diploma program, you can apply for a residency visa. There are two different types of residency visas available.
Straight to Residence Pathway
This is the most straightforward option for the Green List diploma holders. The eligibility criteria comprise -
- Must have a Tier 1 job on the Green List
- Satisfy the requirements and skills for the job role
- Full-time permanent role or a minimum of 30 hours weekly and a 12-month contract
- Be 55 years of age or younger
- Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or above
Work-to-Residency Pathway
The Work-to-Residence Pathway in New Zealand offers a pathway to permanent residency for green list diploma holders who gain work experience in specific occupations -
- Must have a job role in Tier 2 on the Green List
- Meet the requirements as per the job description
- Be 55 years of age or younger
- Must obtain good character and health requirements
- Qualify for the English skills test
Green List Courses in New Zealand
If you want to study in New Zealand, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today? Our educational consultants will discuss your study options and help you apply.