Why More Filipinos Are Choosing a Level 9 Master’s in New Zealand

Filipinos are known for their resilience, strong work ethic, and dedication to family, often seeking opportunities abroad to secure a better future. In November 2023, it was revealed by international education experts that over 53,000 are currently studying abroad, with New Zealand among the top five destinations. Annually, this number is growing by 8% to 10%.

Additionally, over 1 million Filipinos migrate yearly for better career opportunities, with more than 10 million Filipinos now living and working abroad—double the population of New Zealand. For Filipinos without a secured job offer from a New Zealand employer, opting for the study pathway by pursuing a Master’s degree (Level 9) is a strategic and secure pathway to a long-term settlement. This enhances qualifications, employability, and migration prospects, making it easier to secure a post-study work visa and gain experience in the job market of New Zealand.

Who Qualifies for a Master’s in New Zealand?

• Bachelor’s degree holders looking to advance their skills and career prospects.
• Master’s degree holders seeking further specialisation or new opportunities.
• Skilled professionals with relevant work experience aiming for global career growth.
• Non-degree holders with industry experience who want to formalise their expertise.

Key Benefits of a Level 9 Master’s Degree

1. Streamlined 6-Point Residency Pathway

Graduates become eligible to claim 5 points toward New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Visa, with only one more point needed, can be earned through one year of skilled post-study work experience—to meet residency requirements. Meanwhile, those in the Green List roles have Straight-to-residence and work-to-residence pathways which are in high demand.

2. 3-Year Post-Study Work Visa

A Master’s graduate in New Zealand is eligible for a three-year post-study work visa, allowing them to gain valuable skilled New Zealand work experience. This extended work period enhances job prospects and significantly strengthens the pathway to residence visa.

3. Full-Time Work Rights for Spouse & Study Benefits for Children

Students enrolled in a Master’s degree with a NZ education provider can bring their spouse, who qualifies for a full-time open work visa, ensuring financial support for the family. Additionally, dependent children can study in New Zealand’s schools for free, making it an excellent option for families.

4. Work While Studying

Master’s students in New Zealand can work part-time (20 hours per week) while studying and full-time during scheduled breaks. Those enrolled in a Master’s by Research program are eligible to work full time without restrictions, providing greater professional flexibility and exposure.

Filipino students pursuing a Level 9 Master’s in New Zealand can choose the pathway that best aligns with their qualifications, career goals and residency plans:

Master’s by Coursework (Taught Masters)

This pathway allows students to work part-time during their studies and qualify for a 3-year post-study work visa upon graduation. The accompanying spouse is also eligible to apply for a full-time work visa, providing financial stability for the family. While dependent children may be eligible to apply for domestic fee-paying student visas, their student visas must be sponsored by the spouse who holds a work visa.

Master’s by Research (Research Masters)

This pathway allows students to work without restrictions, providing valuable industry experience. It also offers a streamlined pathway option to move on to a Skilled Migrant Residence Visa category based on skilled work experience accumulated along the way. Graduates gain a competitive edge in specialised, high-demand fields, increasing their chances of securing higher-paying jobs and long-term settlement opportunities in New Zealand.

Both pathways offer valuable opportunities—choosing the right one depends on your qualifications, professional goals, and long-term migration plans.

How a Master’s Degree in New Zealand Gives You a Competitive Advantage

According to Immigration Advisers New Zealand, postgraduate degrees help students develop specialised skills, making them more competitive in New Zealand’s job market. They also provide more flexibility than undergraduate programs, allowing students to tailor their studies to long-term career and migration goals. Pursuing a Master’s degree is a strategic move that opens global career opportunities and provides a clear pathway to residency in New Zealand.

Immigration Advisers New Zealand (Philippines) offers free one-on-one consultations to help Filipinos navigate through the application process with confidence. Expert advisers assess qualifications for a Level 9 Master’s degree, ensuring you meet both admission and immigration requirements. Whether you have a bachelor’s, master’s, or significant industry experience, they help determine the best study pathway for you.