Study In New Zealand: Eligibility, Cost, Benefits, Requirements

Are you looking to study in New Zealand in 2024?

Here is the complete article for all Indian students looking to study in New Zealand in 2024.

New Zealand is a popular study destination among Indian students. It offers a world-class education in a safe and welcoming environment.

Ranking at 1st position in the Global Peace Index 2023, New Zealand is the safest country to study in.

Why study in New Zealand?

Do you know that New Zealand is the second-most beautiful country in the world, according to US News?

New Zealand is a land of stunning natural beauty, with its snow-capped mountains, lush rainforests, sterile beaches, and sparkling lakes. It will be an excellent move to New Zealand for your education.

In addition to this, here are some other reasons why you should study in New Zealand:

• New Zealand offers a range of flexible study options, and you can choose how to study. You can study locally at a recognized course provider or from anywhere in the world by learning online.

• New Zealand offers high-quality education, with all of its eight universities ranking in the top 3% in the world. The country has a strong reputation for academic excellence.

• Tuition fees in New Zealand are generally lower than those in popular study destinations such as the UK and Australia.

• New Zealand has always been a welcoming and safe country for students, thanks to its multicultural environment and lower crime rate.

• New Zealand is also known around the world for its incredible work-life balance. With your education, you can also take part in various outdoor activities.

• New Zealand is ranked as the #1 English-speaking country in the world in terms of preparing students for the future. A New Zealand education will help you improve your English language speaking skills, which will help you succeed in various workplaces.

• In New Zealand, you can work part-time during your studies, which can help you cover all of your expenses and gain valuable work experience for the future.

• New Zealand also brings an opportunity for your personal growth and development.

You will learn to build connections with people and work collaboratively and independently. By the end of your education, you will have the necessary skills you require for a thriving, global career and prosperous future.

• Last but not least, after graduating from New Zealand University, you become eligible to apply for a post-study work visa, which allows you to stay in New Zealand and work for up to three years after graduation.

In addition, New Zealand is a global leader in sustainable development and renewable energy, so there is a growing demand for skilled workers in these fields.

New Zealand is a significant innovation and technology hub, and the government is investing heavily in these areas. So, there are endless opportunities for international students in New Zealand.

Benefits of studying in New Zealand

Here are some benefits of studying in New Zealand:

• New Zealand universities have a strong research culture, and you have the opportunity to get involved in cutting-edge research projects.

• One major benefit of studying in New Zealand is the small class size, which means students can get more personalized attention from their professors.

• New Zealand universities offer various student support services, such as academic advertising, career counselling, and health and wellness services.

How can I apply to study in New Zealand?

Study in New Zealand requirements:

 

The requirements to study in New Zealand may vary depending on the level of study and the institution to which you are applying.

However, there are some general requirements that you need to fulfil as an international student:

• You must have an academic qualification equivalent to a New Zealand high school diploma. This can be your class 12 certificate or another equivalent qualification.

• You must meet the English language proficiency requirements of the institution you are applying to. This is typically done by taking English Language tests like IELTS and TOEFL.

To apply to universities in New Zealand, the minimum IELTS score for bachelors can be 5.5 to 6.0, and for postgraduate courses, it should be 6.5 or above.

• You must apply for a student visa before travelling to New Zealand.

Here are the five types of visas:

Student Visa:

‍If you want to study a full-time course in New Zealand that is longer than 3 months, then you can apply for this visa unless you have a working holiday visa.

Here are the more details about this visa:

• You must pay the total cost of your course and enrol with an approved education provider.

• Length of stay: for up to 4 years.

• Cost: NZD $375 (INR 18,610)

• Processing time: According to the New Zealand Immigration Department, 90% of visas are processed within 45 weeks from the date of application.

With this visa, you can:

• Work part-time up to 20 hours a week while studying or full-time in the holidays, depending on your visa conditions.

• Study a full-time course- this includes schools, tertiary (study after secondary school), and English language study.

• Live by yourself above a certain age, otherwise, you are required to come with your parent or a legal guardian.

Visitor Visa (visa-required countries):

‍With this visa in hand, you can study short courses for up to 3 months in total, or a term at school.

Here are more details about this visa:

• Length of stay: up to either 9 months

• Cost: From NZD $211 (INR 10,471)

• Processing Time: According to the New Zealand Immigration Department, 90% of visitor visas are processed within 38 weeks from the date of application.

With this visa, you can:

• Study for up to 3 months.

• Come for a job interview.

• Have a holiday, or visit friends and family.

• Include your partner or a dependent child. (It is required to mention all the details at the time of application for a visitor visa).

Visa-waiver countries- study a short course for up to 3 months:

Under this visa, you don’t need to apply for a visitor visa before you travel to New Zealand if you are from a visa-waiver country. But you will need to apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

Here is the list of transit visa-waiver countries:

• Bahamas
• Bermuda
• Bolivia
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Ecuador
• Federated States Of Micronesia
• Indonesia
• Kiribati
• Nauru
• Palau
• Panama
• Papua New Guinea
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Philippines
• Republic Of Marshall Islands
• Solomon Islands
• Samoa
• Thailand
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu
• Venezuela

Here are some more details about this visa:

• Valid for two or five years
• Cost: from NZD $17 (INR 843)
• Processing Time: According to the New Zealand Department Of Immigration, your visa will be processed within 72 hours from the date of application.

With this visa, you can:

• Travel to New Zealand without applying for a visitor visa- if you are traveling on a passport from a visa-waiver country, a cruise ship passenger, or a permanent resident of Australia.

• Pass through Auckland International Airport as a transit passenger on the way to or from Australia.

• Pass through Auckland International Airport as a transit passenger on the way to any other country, if you are from a visa-waiver country.

Working-holiday visa-

‍study a short course for up to 6 months: These visas are available for people aged between 18 to 30 years, also 18 to 35 years for a few countries.

• With this visa, you can travel and work for up to 12 months. If you are from Canada, then New Zealand allows you to travel and work for up to 23 months, and for up to 36 months if you are from the UK.

• One limitation of a working holiday visa is that you cannot accept a permanent job offer. Employment conditions vary from country to country. You must check the details of your country’s working holiday visa before applying for it.

• With this visa in hand, you can study one or more courses for up to 6 months in New Zealand. For example, you can do an English language course for 6 months, do a study abroad program for 6 months, etc.

 Pathway visa- study up to 3 pre-approved programs:

‍This visa allows you to study up to 3 consecutive programs or courses for up to 5 years.

For example- First, you can do an English language course, followed by a foundation course, and then a degree program.

Note: Your study plan (including all programs or courses) must be pre-approved for this visa and you must be studying at an approved pathway education provider and then funds to pay your tuition fees.

Here are some more details about this visa:

• Length of stay is for up to 5 years.

• The cost of this visa is NZD $375 (INR 18,610).

• According to the New Zealand Immigration Department, 90% of visas are processed within 45 days from the date of application.

With this visa, you can:

• Study up to 3 consecutive courses for up to 5 years on a single student visa.

• Work part-time for up to 20 hours a week while studying and full-time in the holidays, depending on your course of study.

Study visa process

The visa process for Indian students in any country can be complex, so it is important to start planning early. Here is a step-by-step overview of the visa process:

1. Choose a course or institution: The first step is to select a course or institution that fits well with your goals, career, and interests. You can do this by searching the websites of New Zealand universities and other education providers.

2. Apply for a student visa: After choosing a course or institution, it’s time to apply for a student visa. You can either apply for a visa online or through a New Zealand Embassy in your home country.

3. Submit your application: After applying for a student visa next step is to submit your application with the required documents as stated by the New Zealand government:

• An offer of place from an authorized education provider.

• Evidence of the payment of tuition fees.

• A copy of your valid passport.

• Proof of funds to cover your living expenses ( NZ$20,000 per year, or NZ$17,000 for school years 1-13) and proof of where you have got this much amount.

• A copy of your air ticket home.

• Your visa application fee.

• Medical certificate chest X-ray, or a police certificate.

4. Pay your visa application fee when you submit your application. The fee varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.

5. Attend a visa interview (if required): If your application is successful, you will be called for a visa interview. The interview will be conducted by a New Zealand immigration officer. Not all applicants will be called for an interview.

6. If you are successful in your visa interview, you will receive your student visa. You can travel to New Zealand to begin your studies.

Choosing the right university in New Zealand:

Factors to consider: 

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the right university in New Zealand, such as:

• New Zealand universities are ranked among the top universities in the world, but there is still some variation in their reputations and rankings. When selecting a university, you must check the ranking of the university for your chosen field of study, as well as its overall reputation.

• Do you know that New Zealand has two main islands, the North Island and the South Island? Each island has a unique culture and character. You have to think about which island you would like to live on.

• The cost of tuition and living varies depending on the university and its location. You must create a budget first and then choose a university that fits well with your budget.

• Make sure that the university you are choosing offers the program that you want to study. Also, consider the size of the program.

Top universities to study in New Zealand

Here is a list of the top 8 universities in New Zealand, according to QS World Rankings 2023:

There are some universities that may allow admissions without an IELTS score, they are:

• University of Canterbury
• University of Auckland
• Lincoln University
• University of Otago

Cost of living in New Zealand 

1. Accommodation

Besides the tuition fees, accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for students in New Zealand.

For example, the average cost of rent of a one-bedroom apartment in Auckland is NZD$2,500 per month.

However, there are other varieties of accommodation options available to students, such as on-campus housing, shared apartments, and homestays.

2. Other expenses:

Other expenses that students in New Zealand may need to budget for include:

• Food: NZ$500-600 per month
• Transportation: NZ$100-200 per month
• Utilities: NZ$100-150 per month
• Textbooks and other academic expenses: NZ$500-600 per year
• Entertainment and social activities: NZ$100-200 per month

Note: These are just the estimated expenses, actual expenses may vary according to your lifestyle and your spending habits.

3. Total cost of living:

The total cost of living for students in New Zealand varies depending on their lifestyle and spending habits.

However, the average cost of living for an international student in New Zealand is around NZ$25,000 per year.

Cost of studying in New Zealand

The cost of studying in New Zealand will vary depending on various factors, such as university, course of study, and the city where you choose to study.

Here is the average cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students:

Intakes in New Zealand

There are two main intakes to study in New Zealand for Indian students:

• Semester 1: February to June
• Semester 2: July to November

Some universities may also offer three or more intakes a year, but this is typically for fewer programs or courses.

You can apply for either intake, but the July intake is generally the most popular. This is because students who start in July have more time to complete their studies before the end of the year,

Scholarships and financial aid

There are many scholarships available to study in New Zealand for Indian students. Scholarships support international students’ pursuit of education abroad.

Here are some popular scholarships for students:

• New Zealand government scholarships: The New Zealand government offers various scholarships to international students, including the Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships Plan, the New Zealand Development Scholarships, and the New Zealand Excellence Awards.

• University Scholarships: Many universities in New Zealand offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic records, but some universities also offer scholarships based on financial need or other criteria.

• External Scholarships: There are also a number of external scholarships available to Indian students who are studying in New Zealand. These scholarships are typically offered by private organizations or foundations.

How to apply?

To apply for scholarships, Indian students should check the websites of the New Zealand Government, universities in New Zealand, and external scholarship providers.

Scholarship application deadlines vary, so it is important to check the deadlines for each scholarship you are interested in.

Studying in New Zealand can be expensive, but scholarships can help to make your studies more affordable. With the help of scholarships, you can increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.

Student life In New Zealand:

1. Accommodation options

There are a variety of accommodation options available to Indian students in New Zealand, including:

• On-campus housing: It is a great option for students who want to be close to their classes and other campus amenities. It is typically more expensive than other options, but it can be a convenient and social way to live.

• Shared apartments: Sharing an apartment is a great way to save money on accommodation costs. Shared apartments are typically located off-campus, but they can still be close to universities and other amenities.

• Homestays: Living with a homestay family is a great way to experience New Zealand culture and improve your English skills. Homestays are typically located in residential areas, and they can be a good option for students who are new to New Zealand.

• Private rentals: Private rentals are the most expensive accommodation option, but they offer the most privacy and independence. Private rentals can be located anywhere in New Zealand, so students can choose to live in a city, suburb, or rural area.

Part-time work opportunities

New Zealand allows international students to do a part-time job along with their studies. This is a great way to earn money to cover your living expenses and gain valuable work experience.

Here are some of the part-time work opportunities for Indian students in New Zealand:

• On-campus jobs: Many universities in New Zealand offer on-campus jobs to students, like working in the library, cafeteria, or bookstore.

• Retail jobs: Retail jobs are another popular option for students. Retail jobs can be found in shopping malls and other retail areas.

• Hospitality jobs, such as working in a restaurant or bar, are also popular with students

• Tutoring jobs: If you have good academic skills, you may be able to find a tutoring job. Tutoring jobs can be found online or through private tutoring agencies.

• Seasonal jobs: There are a number of seasonal jobs available in New Zealand, such as working on a farm or in a tourist destination. Seasonal jobs can be a great way to earn money and travel around New Zealand.

Social and cultural life for students in New Zealand

New Zealand has a vibrant social and cultural life. There are a variety of activities and events available to students, including

• Clubs and societies: Most universities in New Zealand have a variety of clubs and societies that you can join. This can be a great way to meet new people and get involved in different activities.

• Sports: There are a variety of sports teams and clubs that students can join. Popular sports in New Zealand include rugby, cricket, soccer, and netball.

• Arts and culture: New Zealand has a thriving arts and culture scene. There are a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters that students can visit.

• Outdoors: New Zealand is a beautiful country with a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Students can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and fishing.

Tips for success as an international student in New Zealand

Here are some useful tips for you to study in New Zealand:

Getting involved in the university community

One of the best ways to succeed as an international student in New Zealand is to get involved in the university community. This will help you to meet new people, learn about New Zealand culture, and make the most of your time at university.

Here are some ways to get involved in the university community:

• Join a club or society: There are a variety of clubs and societies to choose from, including academic clubs, sports clubs, and cultural clubs.

• Attend university events: There are always a variety of events happening on campus, such as concerts, festivals, and sporting events.

• Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and to meet new people. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available to students, such as working at a soup kitchen or tutoring children.

• Get involved in student government: Student government is a great way to have a say in how your university is run. There are a variety of student government positions available, such as class representative or student council member.

Build a network

Having a network of friends and support can help you to feel more comfortable in New Zealand and to succeed in your studies.

Here are some tips for building a network of friends and support:

• Get to know your classmates: This is the easiest way to meet new people and start building friendships.

• Join a club or society: This is a great way to meet people who share your interests.

• Attend university events: This is another great way to meet new people and make friends.

• Talk to your professors and teaching assistants: They can be a great source of support and advice.

• Reach out to other international students: They can understand the challenges that you are facing and offer support.

Managing your finances effectively:

Managing your finances effectively is important for all students, International students typically have to pay higher tuition fees than domestic students, and they may not be eligible for government financial assistance.

Here are some tips for managing your finances effectively as an international student in New Zealand:

• Create a budget. This will help you to track your income and expenses and make sure that you are not spending more money than you earn.

• Live below your means. Avoid spending money on things that you don’t need.

• Cook at home instead of eating out. Eating out can be expensive, especially in New Zealand.

• Take advantage of student discounts. Many businesses offer discounts to students.

• Get a part-time job. This is a great way to earn extra money to cover living expenses.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success as an international student in New Zealand.

Conclusion

The article is a complete guide for all Indian students considering studying in New Zealand in 2023 and 2024.

This article highlights New Zealand’s safety, natural beauty, quality education, lower tuition fees, multicultural environment, work opportunities, and post-graduation work visa.

We have also covered visa types, application procedures, choosing the right university, top universities, cost of living, and scholarships.

We have also shared some useful tips for Indian students in New Zealand, emphasizing getting involved in the university community, building a network, and managing finances effectively.