New Zealand has experienced a significant increase in foreign student intake over the past ten years. As of the year ending 2020, New Zealand attracted more than 120,000 international students, a 20 percent increase in the past five years. There are several fundamental motivations that drive students to study in New Zealand.
Quality Education and Internationally Accredited Qualifications
New Zealand has eight universities that provide quality education and internationally accredited qualifications. Institutions like the University of Auckland and the University of Otago are world-class, ranking among the top 1% of universities globally. With undergraduate and postgraduate programs, students obtain internationally recognized qualifications. These New Zealand universities emphasize real-life applications, field experience, and internships, encouraging students to practice what they have learned. Innovative and student-centered teaching methods prepare graduates for success in the international job market.
Safe, Friendly Environment
New Zealand is a safe and friendly country that offers international students an ideal setting for living and learning. It has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest countries in the world, thanks in part to stringent gun possession laws. The people of New Zealand are hospitable and welcoming, making it easier for newcomers to integrate. Over half of the population consists of first-generation New Zealanders, particularly in Auckland, which is one of the most diverse cities in the world. This diversity helps international students adapt to living standards in the country.
Job Opportunities During and After Study
International students in New Zealand are permitted to work during their studies, up to 20 hours per week. This allows them to earn an income while gaining practical experience in their field of study and connecting with potential employers. Upon completing their courses, students can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV), enabling qualified graduates to stay and search for employment in their area of specialization. With a skills shortage in fields such as IT and engineering, international students have a good chance of entering the job market and advancing their careers immediately after completing their studies.
Competitive Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
While not the cheapest option, New Zealand is relatively affordable compared to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Tuition fees range from $15,000 to $33,000 for undergraduate programs and $18,000 to $37,000 for postgraduate programs per academic year. International students are allowed to work part-time to help cover their living costs. On average, students living in cities spend about $15,000 per year on rent, food, transport, and other necessities, which is relatively inexpensive compared to other Western countries. Scholarships and bursaries offered by universities and external donors also help alleviate financial burdens.
Unique Courses and Exciting Research Areas
From farming and wine-making to information technology and multimedia arts, New Zealand universities offer a diverse range of subjects, often specializing in unique fields of study. Some distinctive programs include wine science, commercial rocket engineering, and Antarctic studies. This diversity not only makes tuition costs manageable but also results in smaller class sizes and favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Opportunities for students to gain research experience alongside Kiwi researchers and academics using state-of-the-art facilities are abundant. International students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees can benefit from new programs tailored to today’s global job market.
Comprehensive Student Support Services
The effective management of student affairs is a priority for New Zealand education providers, which is evident in the extensive support services available for international students. These services include individual counseling, academic guidance, career support, language assistance, and welcome programs to facilitate student life. Additional offerings may include student associations, peer mentoring programs, and social activities, helping international students make friends and feel less homesick.
Temporary Graduate Job Search Visa
International graduates have further career progression prospects in New Zealand without relying solely on employer support. Any qualified graduate can apply for a one-year job search visa, open work visa, or skilled work visa. This allows graduates to stay and search for jobs that align with their qualifications while giving employers time to evaluate potential candidates. This process aids graduates in finding suitable employment and helps employers assess the needs of the labor market.
Roadmap to Permanent Residency (PR)
Once students complete their courses and gain work experience in New Zealand, the country provides straightforward pathways for international graduates to qualify for PR. Generally, this status can be attained after the student has graduated and has two years of work experience immediately following their studies, while also meeting certain language, age, health, and character requirements. Graduates with skills or experience in long-term shortage occupations may qualify even earlier. Unlike other countries popular among international students, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, New Zealand offers opportunities for dedicated individuals to obtain residency rights.
A Spectacular Lifestyle
New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from snow-covered mountains and beautiful sandy beaches to geothermal hot pools and rainforests. The key cities, Auckland and Wellington, offer a high standard of living. The country boasts a stunning environment where students can engage in various outdoor activities during their leisure time. New Zealanders value work-life balance, with an average of 30% more leisure time compared to OECD countries. For those seeking an exceptional lifestyle alongside their studies in a foreign country, New Zealand is unparalleled.
Conclusion
More students from around the globe should experience New Zealand’s unique offerings, which include world-class education, innovative degree programs, unparalleled travel experiences, and career opportunities. The friendly Kiwi culture and reliable safety make it easier for international students to adapt and thrive. In the future, New Zealand will continue to develop its educational systems and invest in creating the next generation of global citizens and leaders.
Dariel Campbell is currently an English instructor at a university. She has experience in teaching and assessing English tests including TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, FCE, CAE, and PTEG. With over a decade of teaching expertise, Dariel Campbell utilizes his knowledge to develop English lessons for her audience on English Overview.
