New Zealand is a very popular country with international students. Why do so many people in New Zealand want to study? And what do you have to arrange to study in New Zealand?
Why study in New Zealand?
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. You will find mountains, caves, lakes, fjords, tropical islands, rivers, white beaches and volcanoes. There are many international students in New Zealand. The classes are usually smaller than in the Netherlands, so you get more attention as a student.
Visa
If you are staying in New Zealand for less than 12 weeks you do not need a student visa, if you are staying longer than 12 weeks you will need a student visa. You can apply for a student visa at the New Zealand embassy in the Netherlands and Belgium. You can also apply for a student visa online.
Admission
You must register as early as possible for your studies, as this increases the chance that you will be accepted. Almost all courses are offered in English, which is why you are usually required to take an English language test.
Higher education
There are eight universities and eighteen colleges in New Zealand, with approximately 157,000 students. You will also find 600 private educational institutions in New Zealand. New Zealanders must attend high school until the age of 18, after which they can attend college or university. The courses consist of both practice and theory. You can get your bachelor’s degree in three or four years and your master’s in two years. The academic year is divided into two semesters. The academic year starts in February and ends in December.
Accommodation
There are many different options for accommodation for international students. You can rent a room on campus at most educational institutions. There are usually student houses within walking distance of the campus. These student houses offer fully furnished rooms. You usually have to share the bathroom and kitchen with your fellow residents. You can also opt for homestay. You will then stay with a host family in New Zealand, this is the cheapest. You can of course also rent an apartment yourself, but this is much more expensive.
Language
English is spoken in New Zealand. You must pass an English language test to be admitted to the educational institution. Many educational institutions offer language courses for international students. But you also learn the language quickly because you study in an English-speaking country.
Working in New Zealand
If you have a student visa, you can work up to 20 hours a week. You can only work in New Zealand if you are studying for more than 2 years. You are not allowed to work as a self-employed person. When you apply for a job, it will be checked whether you have permission to work.
Health insurance
It is mandatory as an international student to have health insurance. It is best to take out health insurance in New Zealand. It is also advisable to also take out travel insurance.
Cost
Prices in New Zealand are comparable to the Netherlands. You will spend about 700 euros per month on accommodation. The tuition fees are much higher than in the Netherlands, on average you spend 10,000 euros per year on tuition fees. Usually you can simply receive your student grant abroad. There are also many scholarships available for students who wish to study in New Zealand.