New Zealand is emerging as one of the preferred destinations for higher studies. More than 1 lakh international students are in New Zealand, enrolled in various institutions. All 8 state-funded universities in New Zealand make it to the list of the best universities in the world.
Why study in New Zealand?
Situated in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, New Zealand, the land of the Long White Cloud for the local Maori people, is an island country. It comprises the North and South Islands along with many smaller islands and breath-taking landmasses. The New Zealand culture is a diverse and unique blend of Maori and European traditions, with influences from Asia, Polynesia and many other countries.
Here are some reasons why you should consider studying in New Zealand:
- New Zealand institutions are recognised internationally and are highly regarded by employers worldwide.
- Teaching standards in the country are excellent. Students benefit immensely from smaller class sizes that offer more individualised attention.
- The education system in New Zealand rewards students for both practical and academic achievements.
- New Zealand is a young country where resourcefulness and independence are highly regarded. Students can look forward to a very supportive learning environment where they are encouraged to raise questions and perform creatively.
- It is also regarded as one of the safest countries for international students.
The beauty of New Zealand
Besides academia, there is always room for activities outside the classroom, given such a fabulous location. New Zealand's North Island is well known for its island sanctuaries and active volcanoes — it has a line of mountain ranges running with farmland on both sides. The South Island houses some of the purest landscapes on earth — don’t miss out on seeing the massive Southern Alps, which is the backbone of the South Island.
You can enjoy picturesque fjords, spectacular glaciers, rugged mountains, rolling hillsides, vast plains, subtropical forest and miles of coastline with beautiful sandy beaches. Even big cities are surrounded by lush greenery and are located not far from the country’s hills and coasts. The country offers the best of both worlds with its scenic countryside and bustling cities.
The education system in New Zealand
Institutions in New Zealand generally have an academic year with 2 or 3 semesters. They offer mainly two academic intakes: in January and in July. Some institutions offer multiple intakes to their students in September and November.
The tertiary education system in New Zealand comprises universities, polytechnics and Wānanga.
Universities
There are 600 private universities and 8 state-funded universities in New Zealand. Public universities offer undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes.
ITPs
These are Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) that offer foundation courses and undergraduate and postgraduate vocational courses for students. Currently, there are 16 polytechnics in New Zealand.
Wānanga
If you are keen on learning the traditional values of Maori cultures, then Wānanga institutes are right for you. These institutes teach you everything about the culture of the Maori people. There are currently 3 Wānanga in New Zealand.
Life as a student in New Zealand
The strength of the class is smaller, so students receive more personalised attention. The government follows a ‘Code of Practice’ which establishes the minimum standards of care that an international student can expect. This support system extends beyond the classrooms.
Homestays, renting a house or staying in a hall of residence are some of the options available for international students for accommodation. The parts of the cities are often well connected, and you could use buses for commute or rely on bikes. If your visa allows you to work, you can also work part-time to make some extra money while you study in New Zealand. As a student in New Zealand, you will get to experience their vibrant culture while having access to a world-class education.
Course options to study in New Zealand
Students can choose between diploma, degree, vocational and polytechnic courses. Some of the popular undergraduate courses amongst international students from India, studying in New Zealand are Nursing, Commerce, Accounting, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Applied Management and Information Technology.
Some of the popular postgraduate courses are Construction Management, Information Technology, Business and Management, Applied Management and Data Science.
How to study in New Zealand
Start by sifting through the top institutions in New Zealand. Choose your preferred course and university. You can also rely on our Course Matcher tool to find a course that suits your academic qualifications and budget. Read through the application requirements and work on clearing any exams mandated by the institution. Get your application ready.
You should also make plans for funding at this time. Apply for scholarships if you intend to.
Once you are accepted by an institution, the next step would be to apply for a student visa. There are different types of student visas; you can choose the one that best fits your plans. Fee-Paying Student Visa is the most common one which allows you to study in New Zealand for up to 4 years and you could work while you study.
Before you travel to New Zealand, arrange accommodation. Visit the NauMai NZ website which is created to guide international students with all the necessary information and also to help them connect with the country.
Cost of studying in New Zealand
The tuition costs could be quite high at times, for international students. An exception is if an international student is enrolled in a PhD programme in a recognised institution in New Zealand, then he/she pays the domestic tuition fees.
An undergraduate programme can cost around 6 lakhs and a postgraduate programme can cost around 7 lakhs per year. The cost of living ranges from 7 lakhs to 8 lakhs per year. The student health cover is a must and it may cost you more if not taken from a recognised provider.
Students are allowed to work part-time for 20 hours per week on study visas and full time during vacations. There are strict rules about employment contract which every student needs to follow. For example, a student can’t be self-employed while studying in New Zealand. Research students who are pursuing their doctoral studies at universities in New Zealand are allowed to work full-time. Also, every student who earns through their part-time or full-time work is liable to pay tax.
Scholarships for international students
The eligibility criteria for the scholarships might differ, but the most important criterion is to have a good academic score. Most scholarships will cover part of your tuition fees. It can get quite competitive; so you should submit your applications well ahead of the intake period.
The following scholarships are available for Indian students planning to study in New Zealand:
- New Zealand Scholarships
- Annual International Learner Scholarships
- New Zealand ASEAN scholar awards
- New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
- New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
Some of the university scholarships are:
- UC international First-year Scholarships
- University of Otago International Research Postgraduate Scholarships
- University of Waikato International Scholarships
- Bachelor Degree Scholarship by Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology
- Graduate Diploma Scholarships by Otago Polytechnic
Scholarships and part-time work options can help you manage your finances more effectively.
Benefits of studying in New Zealand
- Chance to enhance your peer-to-peer learning and interpersonal skills since you will be sharing your ideas with people from all over the globe. New Zealand is home to more than 1 lakh international students.
- Availability of multiple intakes and part-time work options.
- Opportunities for the spouse to migrate with the partner and get a work permit. Children, if any, can study in New Zealand on domestic student tuition fees if their parents are permanent residents of the country.
- Options to stay back in the country and look for job opportunities, for students involved in research/doctoral programmes.
- All eight universities are recognised amongst the top 500 universities in the world.
- Though Auckland is the most bustling city in New Zealand, cities like Wellington, Christchurch and Hamilton are equally popular with some of the best colleges in the country.
- The crime rate, as per world standards, is low in New Zealand, making it a safe place to study.
Are you keen on studying in New Zealand? Speak to us and we’ll guide you in the right direction. It is going to be an exciting journey for you, to explore the kiwi land and to interact with different brains from all around the world, with the bonus of exploring the beauty of nature while also enjoying city life.
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