The Experience of Studying in the New Zealand
Ranking second on the Global Peace Index 2019, New Zealand is undoubtedly the safest country to study in. With globally ranked universities and a responsive education system, it has the right mix of opportunities, culture, economy, and climate to thrive for an Indian student. Not to miss, its unspoiled scenery will make your experience worth every penny.
Education System in the New Zealand
Academic excellence, experienced faculties, globally recognized qualifications, brilliant teaching approach, and abundant research opportunities, the education system of New Zealand will give you exposure like never before. Learning here comes with an international outlook that prepares students for employment across the globe.
Study Levels: Education in New Zealand is categorized into five stages
- Early childhood: for ages up to five years
- Primary school: for ages 5 to 10 years
- Intermediate school: for ages 11 to 12 years
- Secondary school: for ages 13 to 18 years
- Tertiary education: 18 years and above
The highest level of education and qualifications at all levels is provided by the universities which offer both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. There are many flexible pathway programs as well that are provided by a variety of institutions in the system to help gain admission into these universities.
New Zealand also has many Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) and Private Training Establishments (PTEs) that offer vocational degree-level education, certification, and diploma.
Qualifications framework: The foundation of the New Zealand education system lies in the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Secondary and tertiary qualifications that come under the NZQF come with quality assurance and global recognition.
Higher education: Under its tertiary education system, New Zealand offers advanced degrees, which can be categorized under bachelor's, master's, and doctoral. New Zealand has eight funded universities that offer higher degree-level education, 16 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) offering vocational courses degree and over 700 Private Training Establishments (PTEs) offering certificates or diplomas. All of these qualifications are highly sought after and recognized globally. Teaching may take place in large group lectures or small group tutorials.
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Type of Institution
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Qualification Offered
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Universities
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Undergraduate degree, postgraduate diploma/degree, PhD
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Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs)
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Graduate diploma, postgraduate diploma, certificates
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Private Training Establishments (PTEs)
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Certificate, diploma
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How much does it cost to study in the New Zealand?
Studying abroad can be an expensive affair. However, an efficient budget plan can help you manage your living expenses more effectively. Before you depart from India, ensure that you consider expenses like accommodation, food, health coverage, and travel along with your tuition fee when calculating the estimated cost of studying in New Zealand.
Your expenditure on the tuition fee depends on the type of qualification and the university or school you opt for. There are many high-ranking universities and colleges in New Zealand with their own fee structures. To cover tuition fees, you will need between NZ$ 22,000 and NZ$35,000 a year (indicative).
Most commonly humanities, arts, and education courses are cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. If you wish to study at the postgraduate level, the tuition fees are typically higher and the costs vary depending on the program. As with most other countries, MBA programs are often the most expensive. The average cost for these programs ranges between NZ$31,000-50,000 (indicative).
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Study Level
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Cost (in NZ$)*
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1
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Undergraduate degree
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$20,500 - $25,000 annually
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2
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Master's degree
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$19,000 - $29,000 annually
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3
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Doctoral degree
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$6,500 - $9,000 annually
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4
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MBA
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$31,000 - $50, 000 annually
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Student Visa Requirement in New Zealand: The New Zealand Government provides an opportunity to all Indian students to study in the country but as a prerequisite, you’ll have to obtain a student visa first. The visa you need will depend on the type of study you want to pursue, and how long you intend to stay in New Zealand.
If you are over 18 years and plan to study in New Zealand for more than six months, here’s an overview of the types of student visa available for you:
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Student Visa Types
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Description
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1
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Fee Paying Student Visa
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Study full-time for up to four years and be able to work part-time
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2
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Exchange Student Visa
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Study full-time for up to four years for an approved student exchange program
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3
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Foreign Government Supported Student Visa
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Study full-time for up to four years on a foreign government loan or scholarship
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4
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Pathway Student Visa
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Study up to five years for 3 consecutive courses on a single student visa and be able to work part-time
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*For detailed information, please visit the New Zealand Government’s Immigration website
While studying in New Zealand, it’s important to maintain your Fee Paying student status. This status relates to the purpose, or reason why you came to New Zealand.