Studying in New Zealand for Overseas Students
Great adventure awaits those who are courageous enough to get out of their comfort zones. Willing to take the great leap? Studying in New Zealand is an experience of a lifetime. There are way too many reasons to get a NZ education. All of its eight universities are in the top 3% in the world rankings. Peace and security is a non-issue. In fact, it’s the 2nd most peaceful country in the 2017 Global Peace Index. Opportunities abound for individuals who pursue studies in New Zealand. Want to experience the Kiwi’s laid-back lifestyle? Read on and find out more.
First things first
Before you get too excited and apply for a visa, you need to cover the basics first. What level of study do you want to pursue? New Zealand offers comprehensive study options. Whether you are aiming for a Bachelor’s degree or just a few steps away from that prestigious PhD, the NZ education system gets you covered. Not sure on the right course to pursue and institution to attend in New Zealand? Try your hand at their interactive study options guide. Access it here <https://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/study-options/programmes/#module-36>.
Specific entry requirements vary per learning institution. However, all international students should expect to speak English wherever they go. As such, facility in using the language is a must.
While you are in your initial preparations, consider where exactly in New Zealand you want to study. Aside from the availability of universities and other tertiary learning institutions, the location that you choose has an implication on your budget. As you know, pursuing a degree overseas can be quite expensive. An undergraduate degree alone can cost you NZ$ 22,000 to NZ$ 32,000 while a PhD has a price tag of NZ$ 6,500 to NZ$9,000. Can’t quite afford it? Do not despair. The New Zealand government offers a variety of scholarships. Choose one that fits your profile <https://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/how-to-apply/scholarships/ >.
Once you are set on what and where to study and are confident in your source of funds, it is now time to apply in an educational institution. This should be no problem if you have satisfied all the necessary requirements. So what is there to do next? It is now time to apply for a visa.
Visas
There are a variety of visas available for individuals who wish to pursue studies and training in New Zealand. A full-time course that takes more than three months of stay in NZ requires a student visa. Below are various types of student visa issued by the New Zealand government.
| Visa Type | Criteria | Duration of Stay | What you can do with the visa |
| Fee Paying Student Visa | Student who intends to study full-time in NZ for more than 3 months; has been accepted in a NZ institution and are willing to shoulder cost of education and accommodation | Up to 4 years | Study full-time and work up to 20-hours part-time during the term and full-time during the holidays |
| Exchange Student Visa | Student who has been accepted in an approved student exchange scheme | Up to 4 years; duration depends on the length of the exchange | Study full-time through an exchange program. Can work part-time depending on the duration of the exchange program and the student’s age |
| Foreign Government Supported Student Visa | Student with an approved foreign government scholarship or loan and an offer from an approved education provider | Up to 4 years | Study full-time and work up to 20-hours part-time during the term and full-time during the holidays |
| Pathway Student Visa | Student with the desire to study up to 3 consecutive courses on a single student visa and an offer from a Pathway education provider | Up to 5 years | Study up to 3 courses consecutively using a single student visa and work up to 20-hours part-time during the term and full-time during the holidays |
Details of each visa type can be found here < https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/options/study/explore-student-visas >. Read up on the requirements and functions of each visa and choose the one that’s a best fit for your particular circumstance.
Opportunities present themselves to those bold enough to chase them. Get prime tickets to great opportunities by studying in New Zealand.
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