Study in New Zealand (Complete Guide for Indian Students)

Planning to study in New Zealand? If your answer is YES, you are in the right place. New Zealand is an island country located south of Australia and Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean. Comparatively a smaller economy, however, it is a developed nation. With the second rank in the Global Peace Index 2018, New Zealand is one of the few safest countries to study in. Globally recognized institutions and an interactive education system make the right combination of culture, nature, and opportunities for a student. Being an island country and moreover one of the last inhabitant nations, New Zealand offers a perfect blend of unspoiled nature, adventure, and serenity.

Also Read: 100 Interesting Facts about New Zealand, the land of 600 Islands!

Study in New Zealand: News Updates

• With the ongoing pandemic, new international students are not allowed to enter New Zealand for the upcoming fall intake-2021. The government of New Zealand is likely to keep the border closed and Immigration New Zealand is not processing visa applications.
• For the year 2021, many New Zealand universities have decided to offer courses in the distance and online mode to international students who wish to continue their education and benefit from quality pedagogy.
• Applications for UG and PG programmes for a variety of courses at top universities are open right now and interested candidates can apply for the desired courses. 
• Current international students residing in New Zealand are eligible for free public health care if they have COVID-19.
• International students are also eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine as part of New Zealand’s national vaccine programme. 

Read Honest Study in New Zealand Reviews from Our Students!

Cost of Studying in New Zealand

The cost of studying in New Zealand includes both tuition fees for the course along with the living expense for the program duration. Tuition fee varies from course to course and university to university as per the choice one makes. However, the cost of living remains the same for every international student. If one is planning to stay for less than a year then they need to have $1250 for each month of study to contribute towards living costs. However, if one is planning to for more than a year then they need to show $15,000 to support themselves initially. Living costs vary depending on the city and the lifestyle one chooses. There is a popular student card that gives students access to several offers and discounts across food, clothes, travel, entertainment, and airfares also.

Did you know? New Zealand is the least corrupt country in the World!

Average Tuition Fee

The following table shows the average tuition fee for the courses available at colleges in New Zealand: 

Cost of Living 

An international student studying in New Zealand is likely to spend around 13000 to 16000 NZ$ per year to study in the country. This cost is likely to remain the same throughout courses. Given below is the list of areas expenditure for an international candidate: 

Accommodation

Accommodation is another major expense for international students. New Zealand is a beautiful country with several housing options for students to choose from. Students can opt for hostels, apartments, dormitories, homestays as well as shared apartments. International students can choose whether they wish to live at the campus in dorms and hostels or independently in apartments or get the ultimate immersive experience with homestays with a family based in New Zealand. The cost of accommodation for a three-four bedroom house is NZ$565 (INR 29390) per week in 2020, or NZ$215 (INR 11184) a room per week.

Must Read: Universities in New Zealand Accepting Backlogs

Requirements to Study in New Zealand

To study in New Zealand, the universities have set different requirements and eligibility criteria for different programmes. Depending upon your level of entry, course and academic qualifications you can apply to different universities and their programmes. Here are the general eligibility requirements that all students must fulfil-

• Relevant 12th certificate/undergraduate degree/master’s degree from a recognized university in the relevant field (minimum marks depend upon the university and department opted for)
• Proficiency in the English Language like valid IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo scores
• Entrance like GMAT or GRE Scores 
• Resume/CV (course-specific requirement)
• Statement of Purpose
• Recommendation Letters
• Valid Passport 
• Bank Statements and proof of financial coverage for your entire study abroad timeline 

Did you know? Every year over 21,000 international students are admitted to study in New Zealand!

Popular Fields in New Zealand

• Animation
• Engineering
• Business and Management
• Computer Science
• Business 
• Accounting
• Hospitality
• Architecture
• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Design
• Medicine
• Tourism
• Hotel Management
• Law

Top Courses in New Zealand

• MBA 
• Graphic Design
• International Relations
• Foundation English Programme
• LLM
• Industrial Product Design
• Agricultural Science
• Nursing
• Veterinary
• Architecture
• Creative Writing
• Economics
• Finance
• Education
• New Media Studies
• Information Technology

Popular Intakes in New Zealand

International students can apply for the two major intakes in New Zealand in January and July Intakes. Most students apply during these sessions and they correspond with the start of university semesters to ensure students can begin/rejoin classes with their peers. 

Know All About the July Intake in New Zealand!

Study in New Zealand for Free with Scholarships

Scholarships are an essential part of every study abroad student’s life. Getting financial aid can help them to concentrate on their studies and avoid part-time jobs. Scholarships also make them responsible, competitive and smart as only a handful of meritorious candidates actually get their benefits. To maintain the benefits one gets from these grants, it is important to secure a good GPA in the academic year which makes students smarter. International candidates can apply for aids provided by the New Zealand government as well as for the scholarships provided by the universities for a specific program. Enlisted below is a mix of both: 

• New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships 2021
• New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
• New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
• Lincoln University Academic Scholarships
• New Zealand International Undergraduate Fees Scholarship
• International Development (MIntDev) at Massey University
• UC International First-Year Scholarships 
• Climate Change Science and Policy (MCCSP) at Victoria University Wellington
• ADB Scholarships at University of Auckland
• Public Health (MPH) at the University of Auckland
• University of Otago International Research Masters Scholarships
• Victoria Masters Scholarships
• International Rural Development (MRD) at Lincoln University
• University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarships 
• Disaster Risk and Resilience (MDRR) at the University of Canterbury

Did you know? Every year Universities in New Zealand generate over $500+ million through research!

Why Study in New Zealand?

• Quality Education: New Zealand has a diverse education system which supports a wide range of programs and courses to choose from. With great scope for research and adequate work benefits, New Zealand is the hot spot for you to be.
• Cost of living: The education fee for an International student varies depending on the field they pick to study in New Zealand. The average cost of living in New Zealand is INR 65,694 per month.
• Language: New Zealand is mainly an English speaking nation along with other languages- Maori and New Zealand sign language.
• Career Prospects: As an advanced market economy, New Zealand is a high-income economy with a nominal gross domestic product per capita of US$ 36,254. The country is home to come of the largest companies like Fonterra, ASB, IBM, Millenium, Spark NZ and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare.
• Safety: New Zealand is extremely safe and secure nation for International students. New Zealand provides for a safe environment and friendly for students living alone in a new country.
• Immersive Culture: New Zealand’s cultural influences are predominantly Maori and European. You can celebrate diverse festivals like Māori Kai Festivals, Christmas, Chinese Lantern Festival, Lunar New Year and Diwali.
• Generous Scholarships: The New Zealand government and institutions offer several scholarships for international students to study in New Zealand. Such as New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships, SEG Scholarships, New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) and New Zealand Excellence Awards.

Study in New Zealand after 12th 

International students who are looking to study abroad after the 12th can opt for New Zealand. It is one of the most popular study destinations with over 21,000 international applicants every year from across the globe! Students can opt for a number of programmes from Animation to Zoology and are required to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores along with their academic transcripts. Admission is contingent upon marks in English proficiency tests, previous academic performance in school and interviews (course-specific). Students who are just shy of making the cut-off or eligibility criteria can opt for pathway programmes in the country offered by some of the best universities like the University of Auckland, University of Waikato and Massey University. 

Did you know? The University of Otago is the oldest university in New Zealand and it was founded in the year 1869 by an ordinance of the Otago Provincial Council.

How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in New Zealand

• Check for eligibility
It is necessary for applicants to meet the required criteria so that they are eligible for the scholarship.

• Apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously
If an individual is interested and eligible for more than one scholarship then they should look into applying simultaneously for them and complete separate applications for them.

• Start the application early
Gaining scholarship is highly competitive, one must start the application work early such that they have ample time to work on them such that they are perfect and increase the chances for the bagging scholarship.

• Assemble all the required information and documents
One should definitely assemble the information on future plans, aims and recommendation letters among other documents needed such that they have everything in hand as and when required.

• Proofread the application
Do consult a person or an organization that will help you to give your best ahead. At leverage Edu, we will help you such that it increases your chances of bagging scholarship several folds.

Top Universities & QS Rankings for 2022

Must Read: Best Medical Universities in New Zealand

Cheapest Universities in New Zealand

• University of Otago
• Victoria University of Wellington
• University of Waikato
• Massey University
• University of Canterbury
• Lincoln University
• Auckland University of Technology

Study in New Zealand without IELTS

• University of Canterbury
• University of Auckland
• Lincoln University
• University of Otago
• Unitec Institute of Technology

Also Read: Best Engineering Colleges in New Zealand

Colleges Accepting 5.5 IELTS Band in New Zealand

Listed below are some universities in New Zealand that accept 5.5 IELTS band score: 

• Auckland University of Technology
• Lincoln University
• Massey University       
• University of Auckland
• University of Canterbury
• University of Otago
• University of Waikato
• Victoria University of Wellington

Did you know? University of Auckland, University, Victoria University of Wellington, University of Otago, AUT University, UNITEC Institute of Technology are some of the best employers in the country.

Study in New Zealand without GMAT and Work Experience

Here are some universities where you can study MBA without GMAT or work experience

• University of Canterbury
• Massey University
• University of Waikato 

Grading System in New Zealand

How to Apply to Universities to Study in New Zealand

With programmes being taught in English only in New Zealand, the Indian students can choose from among various courses being taught by renowned universities to study in New Zealand. All universities require students to apply directly to the university through an online application. General steps one needs to follow are-

• Choosing the institution and programme
• Enquiring for fees and entry procedure, one would need to submit evidence for meeting English language requirements.
• Gathering the documents needed.
• Submission of an application fee.
• At last, one needs to wait for results to be declared.

Here are a few general documents that students need to submit while applying at the universities to study in New Zealand:

• Properly filled application form
• Letter of Recommendation(s)
• Proof of proficiency in the English language
• Transcripts/Academic record
• Personal Statement/ Statement of Purpose
• Copy of your and your parent’s passport

Did you know? There are only 8 universities and 28 colleges across New Zealand!

Student Visa for New Zealand

International students who wish to study in New Zealand have to apply for a student visa. Applying for an NZ Student Visa is a necessary requirement, candidates are advised to start the application process well in advance after receiving the confirmation letter of admittance from their university. Indian students who are planning to study in New Zealand opt for the Fee Paying Student VISA. This VISA allows students to stay, study and work part-time in New Zealand for up to 4 years. Students who wish to travel with their parents/guardians, their guardians can apply for Guardian of a Student Visitor VISA. It is valid till the student visa of the candidate.

Documents to Study in New Zealand

The entire application process is online and candidates can update all the information through their id and apply for the visa at home.

• Valid passport which must be valid for at least 6 months or more 
• Student Visa Application Form (INZ 1012) and Visa Fees
• Proof of funds to cover your expenses, study and cost of accommodation in the country
• Air ticket to New Zealand
• Acceptance Letter from your host institution confirming your eligibility for a particular course
• Duly signed certificates like Medical clearance, Health security, and character certificate are required to prove that you are a fit for travelling and staying abroad
• The minimum IELTS requirements for a New Zealand study visa is an IELTS Band score of 6.

Did you know? New Zealand is one of the youngest countries in the world and the last country to be inhabited by humans!

Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand

Students studying in New Zealand can apply for a visa to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years with the relevant qualification. The NZ post-study work visa lasts for 1, 2 or 3 years depending on the level of your qualification, duration of your course undertaken in the country. There are two types of work visas -Post Study Work Visa (open) and Post Study Work Visa (employer-assisted). Candidates with a post-study work visa can work for any employer or for any job. If you have a partner, she/he can also apply for a work visa. You can extend your post-study work visa if you complete another qualification such as a Level 7 Bachelor’s degree for a minimum of 30 weeks and the degree must be higher than the qualification you submitted for your visa earlier.

Must Read: Best Courses for Permanent Residency in New Zealand

Student life in New Zealand

Student life in New Zealand is vibrant and filled with incredible opportunities to interact with friendly locals and make friends from across the world. From living in homestays to taking part in activities on university campuses, students can join societies, explore the beautiful country and its divine beaches. Living in New Zealand is great to improve your health and lifestyle as the locals are extremely fit and outdoorsy. Many international students travel to Australia during their summer break. Living in New Zealand is also an incredible opportunity to explore its unique Maori culture. 

Did you know? New Zealanders are called Kiwis! It means curious little flightless birds that are native to the country and revered in the Maori culture!

Best Cities to Study in New Zealand

• Auckland
• Wellington
• Hamilton
• Christchurch
• Palmerston North

FAQs

Q1: How much will it cost to study in New Zealand?

On average, an Indian student can spend about 22000-32000 USD on a bachelor’s degree and 26000 to 37000 USD on a master’s degree. The amount is likely to get higher for professional and STEm courses. 

Q2: Is New Zealand a good place to study?

Yes, New Zealand is an excellent study destination for Indian students, mainly because it is cost-friendly compared to other anglophone countries. It is also one of the safest and peaceful destinations to study abroad. 

Q4: What are the VISA requirements to study in New Zealand?

Documents required to study in New Zealand include all educational certificates including 10th, 12th, Bachelor Degree and Other certificates if any. Applicants also need a valid IELTS score of 5.5 and a PTE ranging between 43 to 50. 

Q5: Which is the best course to study in New Zealand?

Although universities in New Zealand offer excellent study plans to candidates as per their interest, there are some programs that have gathered more attention to students in comparison to others. The top 5 among them includes – Business, Engineering, Information technology, Hospitality Management and Tourism. 

As a study destination, New Zealand has started gaining popularity only recently. With limited information and help available, applying to universities can be tricky and it is advisable to seek professional guidance and services for the same. You can give a call at Leverage Edu  1800572000 and book a free consultancy session to map your journey to the university of your choice.

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