New Zealand is a rising study abroad destination, and it’s no surprise. All eight universities in the country rank among the top hundred universities all over the world. Besides high-quality education, the country has a number of other facilities and other qualities that attract a large number of international students., such as natural landscapes, diverse cuisine, and friendly locals.
This beautiful and peaceful country is very welcoming to international students, and many universities offer English language courses to help students improve their English language proficiency and adjust to college life.
If you are interested in studying in the country, here’s what you need to know in order to apply to universities in New Zealand.
1. Know the deadlines
Always keep a track of the start dates at a university you’re planning to apply to, as the academic year in New Zealand is from February to November with a four-week break in June-July. Most universities start accepting applications in August even before the school year starts, so you’ll need to prepare well in advance. Bachelor degree programs in New Zealand are usually completed within 3 years.
2. Take an English proficiency test
If you are from a country where English is not your first language, then you need to prove your proficiency in the language. This is because, English is the primary language in the country and all your courses will be taught in English, therefore, students need to have a strong grasp on the language.
If you need to take a test, the IELTS is generally recommended as it’s the world’s most popular and recognized English language proficiency test. However, do check the exact requirements with the university, and ask what tests they recommend you take before you sign up for the IELTS.
3. Plan your finances
While applying for your student visa to study at any university in New Zealand, then you’ll need to prove that you can afford to pay tuition fees and the cost of living.
To give you a rough idea, fees for a Bachelor’s degree range from NZ$22,000 to NZ$32,000. For courses like medicine and veterinary science, fees will be higher. The cost of living varies from state to state, but you’ll need to prove that you can afford at least NZ$15,000 for the first year.
There are also many scholarships available for international students as well as other forms of financial aid. Also, you can work up to 20 hours a week and full time during holidays on a New Zealand student visa.
4. Documents you’ll need
Just like applying to any other foreign university, you’ll need to prepare the required documents in good time. While the application process differs from university to university, here’s what you’ll generally need to submit:
• A personal statement of intent
• Academic transcripts
• Relevant test scores (such as SAT, A-Level or IB Diploma, depending on the country you are coming from)
• Proof of funds or financial aid
• Application fee (depends on the university)
5. Apply online
Most of the universities in New Zealand are really advanced talking in terms of technology, so you can submit your application via e-mail or through the website. Of course, if you’d prefer to apply through traditional snail mail, you can do so as well.
6. Prepare your student visa application
Once you receive your acceptance letter from the university, you’ll need to apply for your student visa, which is a necessity for courses longer than three months. Most of the documents you prepared for your university application will also be required for your student visa. Once everything is approved, you’re all set for a great education in the beautiful country of New Zealand.
