New Zealand is a great destination for international students, offering a world class educational system.
All of its institutions adhere to global standards, regularly tested and monitored by government to ensure a consistently high level of education wherever you choose to study.
It has a progressive and responsive education system, combining traditional principles of teaching with innovation and technology, leading to globally recognised and respected qualifications.
New Zealand is a member of the Lisbon Recognition Convention, which means its certificates, diplomas and degrees are recognized in all 50 participating countries.
Why New Zealand Is A Good Place To Study
New Zealand is a blend of a picturesque setting, high-tech infrastructure, and some of the best universities in the world. In a nutshell, there are numerous benefits of studying in New Zealand, including world class academia, high ROI, diverse culture and adventure.
Here are some good reasons why you should study in New Zealand, let’s dive in:
1. Highly regarded education system
The teaching standards and overall education system in New Zealand are the first, and one of the most significant, reasons why it’s such a great place to get a university education.
It’s a country that prioritizes practical learning as well as knowledge-based learning to ensure their students are fully prepared for the future.
2. Global rankings
Considering that every student, course and university is different, making the right choice is important. Research highlights that thorough course preparation plays an important part in the satisfaction of international students.
With so many options available, picking the right course is always a tough decision. University rankings are a great way to help compare key performance indicators across different universities.
New Zealand universities rank consistently highly, owing partly to this distinct style of learning which promises real-world experience during your studies. All eight of New Zealand’s publicly funded universities are ranked in the top 3% in the world (QS World University Rankings 2021).
3. Work benefits
New Zealand offers several unique working advantages for international students, including the ability to work full-time during holidays and the option of applying for a six-month work permit to gain points for a residency application.
4. Natural beauty
New Zealand is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world and offers an amazing choice for anyone who looks for adventure.
Studying is made easier and more enjoyable when it’s done in a beautiful location, and New Zealand definitely delivers in that category. The country is full of natural wonders to admire and explore with your new friends. Both the North and South Island offer beaches, waterfalls and much more.
Study during the week and choose from activities like bungy jumping, skiing, hiking, rafting or exploring the local culture in your free time. You can get a ferry between the two islands, making all the beauty spots in New Zealand accessible.
Your sightseeing adventures could take you anywhere from the rapids of Huka Falls to the glowworm-covered Waitomo Caves or even Milford Sound, which is arguably the most scenic spot in New Zealand.
5. International student community
Another reason why you should study in New Zealand is its well-established international student community.
Some years back, there were almost 40,000 foreign students in the country, and at Massey University alone, over 5,000 international students from more than 100 countries enroll each year.
This means that studying in New Zealand will lead you to cross paths with people from all walks of life and make friends from around the world.
6. Adventure around every corner
There’s also so much to do when you study in New Zealand, whether you’re looking for something active, cultural or adrenaline rush-inducing. Take to the water for kayaking, white water rafting and jet boat rides, or make the most of the country’s many picturesque hiking trails.
There are also spots for mountain biking, skiing, surfing, horseback riding and bungee jumping, meaning there are lots of opportunities to experience something new or spend time doing something you love.
In terms of cultural activities, there are many museums across New Zealand for you to learn about the country’s history. You’ll also find art galleries housing contemporary art, historic collections, and a mix of local and international treasures.
7. Culture and standard of living
Residents of New Zealand benefit from an exceptional lifestyle thanks to the peaceful and friendly atmosphere and overall relaxed way of life. It is considered a very welcoming place where people of all backgrounds can feel at home.
The general standard of living is very high in New Zealand. The country has some of the safest air in the world, with better environmental health than many other developed countries. The vast expanse of untouched nature also contributes to the country’s lack of air pollution, overall making its inhabitants happier and healthier.
New Zealand also invests heavily in its public transport system. Buses are the main mode of transport throughout the country, with the network being easy to navigate and utilizing clean and modern vehicles. The government has even announced that NZ$50 million of funding will go towards helping councils fully decarbonize their public buses by 2035.
Low crime rates, accessible healthcare and consistent warm weather are also factors contributing to the high standard of living in New Zealand and the mental wellbeing of its residents.
8. Easy Entry Requirements
Unlike many other countries, New Zealand universities do not have a lot of competition to get admitted for a university degree. That is because the New Zealand government has invested heavily in higher education over the years.
Because of that, New Zealand universities have more capacity than the number of students. Students with moderate grades can get entry into most Bachelor’s degree programs easily. Hence the entry requirements are minimal compared to most of the top universities in the world.
9. Affordable Cost of Living & Studying
The cost of living in New Zealand is comparatively lower in comparison to Australia, food is easily available at reasonable prices and there are a wide variety of student accommodation options.
Public transport is also moderately priced, offering easy access to rivers, lakes, forests and beaches for the recreational opportunities they provide.
Whereas the cost of studying in New Zealand varies between NZD 6,500 and NZD 40,000 depending on the type, of course, the student is enrolled in.
The cost of studying in New Zealand is the lowest for doctoral programs, followed by post-graduate programs and undergraduate programs.
The most expensive courses in New Zealand for international students can be graduate diplomas or diploma and certificate courses. Those students who are looking for funding sources to support their education in New Zealand can easily find it too.
10. Broad Opportunities for Study and Research
The eight institutions that make up the university system in New Zealand are located across the two main islands, the North and the South. This distribution gives students a chance to pursue opportunities in study and culture.
Although all the New Zealand universities offer degrees in the arts, business, and science, each college also has its own niche and distinct courses to offer.
Courses at New Zealand universities are offered at various levels of:
- Certificate and/or Diploma
- Undergraduate
- Postgraduate coursework
- Postgraduate research
- Doctoral or research
It is a known fact that there is ample scope for research and PhD scholars are offered every possible help monetarily and academically to conduct their research.
11. Quality Learning Experience
New Zealand’s university system is research-based, as it is based on the British education model. This means there are a lot of similarities between the two systems, such as the teaching methods.
The academic staff is expected to be researchers as well as teachers. This ensures a high-quality learning experience.
New Zealand Vice-Chancellors’ Committee, the universities’ representative body, has legal responsibility for course approval and moderation.
12. A Great Place to Live & Study
International students are welcomed warmly in New Zealand society for the cultural diversity they bring and their contribution to the economy.
New Zealander citizens are well traveled and are interested in people from other cultures, so international students feel more welcome.
Campuses have students from all across the globe studying together. Students come from Europe, Southeast Asia, the UK, and Asia, among many others.
Do students get any benefits of studying in New Zealand?
Yes, international students have many opportunities, such as scholarships, post-study permits, etc. In addition to that, you also can avail numerous student discounts in New Zealand.
FAQs
What are the requirements to study in New Zealand?
To study in New Zealand, you’re required to complete your schooling, take the required eligibility tests, such as the GRE, GMAT, IELTS, etc and have a valid passport.
How much does it cost to study in New Zealand?
The cost of every university and course varies. However, you might need about NZ$ 22,500 – NZ$ 36,000 annually to study in New Zealand.
Why study in New Zealand as an international student?
New Zealand is opening up to international students to facilitate a growing economy. Thus, creating a pool of opportunities for job seekers.
Conclusion
New Zealand is renowned for its naturally beautiful landscapes and the adventurous activities they offer. The best thing is that all these are easily accessible from all eight universities in the country. Even though you will be there as a student, if you ever want to spend weekends and holidays exploring the country, you will have endless options to do so in whatever way you want. New Zealand offers great options for adventure sports, hiking, etc.
