Know Everything You Need to Study Abroad in New Zealand

New Zealand has emerged as one of the most popular study-abroad locations for international students looking for a top-notch education in a lively and inviting atmosphere. New Zealand has a lot to offer people wishing to study abroad with its picturesque surroundings, inviting populace, and highly regarded colleges. Studying abroad might be intimidating when considering various aspects, including admission criteria, scholarships, alternatives for part-time employment, and cultural differences. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of studying abroad in New Zealand. In this guide, we will cover everything international students need to know, from the admission requirements to the best courses and universities, so that they can make informed decisions about their education and future career. Let's dive in and explore the exciting opportunities that studying in New Zealand offers!

How Should a Student Apply to Study in New Zealand?

Besides its cultural flamboyance, New Zealand International students prefer New Zealand’s student-friendly academic standards and world-class education facilities to propel their career opportunities. Students keen to apply to study in New Zealand can follow our step-by-step guide, comprising the in-depth admission process to universities.

How to Apply?

• Choose a Course and University: Students must be aware of the courses they wish to specialize in and the availability at the institution before applying to study in New Zealand. Obtain information from official websites or study abroad consultants.
• Check the Admission Requirements: Review the admission requirements once students choose the program and school they want to apply to. Academic credentials, English languages proficiency exams like the IELTS or TOEFL, and a statement of intent are often required for this.
• Prepare your Documents: Gather and prepare any required paperwork, including students’ passports, transcripts of your academic work, and the results of their English language exam.
• Apply to the University: Students can apply directly through their website or a study abroad organization. Complete the application form and send it in with supporting documentation. Ensure to pay the application cost if it is necessary.
• Receive an Offer Letter: If students meet the requirements for admission, the university will send a letter of offer. Thoroughly read the letter before deciding whether to accept or reject the offer, then follow the directions.
• Apply for a Student Visa: Students can apply to accept the offer. They need to present documentation of your enrollment, financial assistance, and a current passport. Applying as early as possible is vital because the visa application procedure might take several weeks.
• Arrive in New Zealand: Students may plan for the trip and prepare for their new life in New Zealand after getting their student visa. Attend the orientation program and become acquainted with the school and the neighborhood.

Top Universities and Courses in New Zealand

Studying abroad is a costly affair, and shortlisting the best academic platform takes a lot of work. However, international students are provided with an array of top-ranked universities that kindle their interest to join any of those universities. In addition, it is essential to choose the right university. Here are some of the best universities and courses to consider in New Zealand.

• University of Auckland: Among the top 100 universities in the world is the University of Auckland. It provides a wide variety of courses in fields such as the arts, business, engineering, law, medicine, and science. The university offers 41 undergraduate and 99 postgraduate programs.

• Victoria University of Wellington: Victoria University of Wellington is a research-intensive university offering arts, business, law, science, engineering, and architecture courses. The university is ranked 236 in the QS World University Ranking. It offers 15 undergraduate and 75 postgraduate programs. It has a 7000+ international student population representing 120 countries.

• University of Otago: Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is the oldest in New Zealand and ranked 217 in the QS World University Ranking. It is renowned for its health sciences, humanities, and business courses. International students are offered 117 undergraduate and 169 postgraduate courses. The university has a strong research focus and is known for its medical and health sciences programs.

• Massey University: Massey University is ranked 292 in QS World University Rankings 2023. It offers 43 undergraduate and 56 postgraduate courses in subjects across business, design, education, health, humanities, science, and engineering. The university is known for its focus on innovation and creativity in teaching and research.

• Auckland University of Technology: Auckland University of Technology is ranked 486 in QS World University Ranking and offers business, communication, design, health sciences, and science courses. The university is known for its emphasis on practical learning and research. It provides 357 UG and 162 postgraduate programs.

Popular Specializations to Choose?

While New Zealand has a lot in store to offer for prospective students, it is popular to offer the following courses.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): Business is one of the most popular degree programs for international students in New Zealand. MBA degrees cover various topics, such as accounting, finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship.
• Engineering (B.E, MS, B.Tech, M.Tech): New Zealand is known for its strong engineering programs, specializing in civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering.
• Computer Science: Computer science is another popular degree program in New Zealand, focusing on software development, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
• Health Sciences: Health sciences degrees are also popular in New Zealand, specializing in medicine, nursing, public health, and other healthcare-related fields.

What is the cost of studying in New Zealand?

This question is inevitable! For most international students, abroad dreams stall at this point. International students can effectively control their living expenses through a solid budget plan. Due to New Zealand's comparatively inexpensive tuition compared to other nations, there has been a significant increase in the number of foreign scholars studying there. Of the top 100 universities in the world, eight New Zealand universities are ranked worldwide.

New Zealand has private and public universities, with the latter offering more affordable education than the former. The undergraduate programs fee for international students in New Zealand can range from NZD 22,000 to NZD 40,000 annually and NZD 26,000 to NZD 42,000 annually for postgraduate programs. For Living expenses, international students should budget around NZD 15,000 to NZD 20,000 per year, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. Health and travel insurance are the last international students must watch out for during their stay in New Zealand – it is essential in an emergency, and subscribing to a plan can cover medical costs. These insurance costs depend on the course duration and student stay in the country.

Scholarships offered for international students in New Zealand

Scholarship opportunities are highly competitive, especially in a small country like New Zealand. Embarking on the study abroad journey involves great academic and financial responsibility. Similar to setting funds for accommodation and other expenses, it is important for international students not to default on semester fees and other academic expenses. This also makes them vulnerable to getting deported from the host country. So, seeking scholarships is the best way to prevent setbacks. Considering New Zealand’s reception towards international students, getting a scholarship is a cakewalk. Top-ranking universities offer different scholarships with adequate stipends. The following are the best international students’ scholarships to get in 2023.

• New Zealand International Scholarship: Fully-funded scholarship awarded by the New Zealand government.
• The University of Canterbury International First Year Scholarship: This scholarship rewards high-achieving students. The stipend ranges from NZD $10,000 – $20,000
• The University of Auckland International Student Scholarship: This student scholarship stipend is valued at NZD $10,000 and fully funded for merit students to study in UOA
• Victoria Master’s Scholarships: This scholarship provides NZD a $15,000 stipend plus domestic fees. The scholarship is for full-time research-focused master’s program degrees.

Popular Student Intakes in New Zealand

New Zealand has two-semester intakes for students to get admission to universities. This policy is applicable to public and private universities. International students are provided with a wide range of programs to choose from in both intakes, but it’s all down to the student to consider factors like course availability, good academic grades, entrance test bands, acceptance rate, career options, and keenness to join whilst deciding.

• February intake:This is the main intake for most universities and institutions in New Zealand. The academic year begins in late February, and most courses start at this time. The application deadline for the February intake is typically in November or December of the previous year.

• July intake: This is the second major intake for international students in New Zealand. The academic year begins in mid-July, and courses starting at this time are available at some universities and institutions. The application deadline for the July intake is usually in April or May of the same year.

What are the job opportunities for International Students? 

Study and work is a popular policy in New Zealand for international students. They can supplement their finances during their stay in the country. The student visa allows students to work 20 hours a week part-time during semester vacations, irrespective of the job roles. Full-time employment prospects are also on the cards if they can significantly contribute to the organization. Working part-time also sharpens their skills and helps them gain valuable industry experience. The minimum wage for students taking up part-time is NZD $14.75 per hour, which also depends on the work rate and flexibility. Students can also register in job portals like Me and Seek, Jora, SJS, and Indeed or by networking on LinkedIn or websites with job listings.

Students can choose part-time roles as Retail Sales Assistants, Lab Techies, chefs, Restaurant-related jobs, Seasonal Workers, On-Campus Research Assistants, Supermarket Assistants, Call Center employees, and more.

Time to Sum Things Up

Studying in New Zealand is undoubtedly the best option if your funds are limited. The country offers world-class educational facilities and exhibits student-friendly culture to make them feel at home. Studying in New Zealand can provide a life-changing experience and enrich academic skills to hone students for a successful future.

Are you aspiring to study in New Zealand? Why wait, then? Visit Sulekha.com today and kick-start your study abroad journey! Speak to expert Study in New Zealand education consultants now to put your ambition into action.