New Zealand

Your overseas Consultant

About New Zealand

New Zealand has the two things every student would want when they study abroad - supremely picturesque landscapes and an equally superior education system.

All the universities of New Zealand consistently rank high in QS World Rankings and Times Higher Education Rankings, and qualifications from any of these are accredited across the globe, opening doors to prospects everywhere.

Moreover, it’s influenced by the UK education system, which means it will be focused on research-based learning. With excellent safety standards, quality of life and views, New zealand is indeed the perfect place to pursue any dreams you have, professional or personal.

Accomodation

If you’re worried about places to call home for the next few years, worry no more. Vidyabroad has your back. There are 3 types of accommodation available:

On-campus: This is a popular option for international students coming to New Zealand for the first time. Depending on the campus, it usually costs anywhere from NZ$ 100 to NZ$ 700 per week. And it goes without saying, if this is the right option for you, you need to apply well in advance. Living on-campus means everything you need is within walking distance – meals, classes, friends included. And if you need anything else, you have about a thousand people to ask. and your preference.

Homestays: Here, you’ll have the opportunity to stay with a New Zealand family and live the NZ life. It typically includes meals, laundry facilities, and a place to call home with people you can call family.

Private accommodation: Living in a privately rented property sounds amazing, we know. You have the freedom to explore, come and go as you please, pick your roommates, etc. But that also means paying the bills, buying groceries and living the adult life.

Figure out your pros and cons, but don’t worry about anything else. Vidyabroad can handle the rest.

Cost of Education

Studying abroad can be an expensive affair, but so worth it.

If you thought finance could never be fun, let Vidyabroad change your mind. Like always, tuition fees make up most of your expenses. To cover tuition fees, you will need between NZ$ 22,000 and NZ$ 35,000 a year (indicative). Accommodation will depend on whether it is on-campus or off-campus. And of course, you’ll need a visa. That costs approximately NZ$ 270. Feel free to contact your Vidyabroad counsellor for the latest information about this.

Don’t forget to take into account the rest of your living expenses, health support and transport costs. Indian students in New Zealand can work once they have their Inland Revenue Department number (IRD number). You are allowed to work 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during vacations. If you choose to work along with your studies, your earned income will be taxable.

Safety & Indian Community

New Zealand is often overshadowed by its neighbour, Australia, but it definitely has some strong perks.

For one, it ranked second on the Global Peace Index 2021. They pay close attention to the safety of their citizens and students. As an international student, you’ll have access to various points of contact for any kind of emergency (even the dal makhani craving type). Because every 1 in 20 New Zealander is now of Indian ethnicity. You may be miles away from home, but in many ways, you’ll be so much closer to it.

Most universities here have 24×7 security, with CCTV cameras and guards. Various institutions also offer services like shuttles and security escorts to ensure you reach home safely after hours. But, of course, you need to take some of your own precautions. Study your area well, get to know the roads, shortcuts, lanes and bylanes. Always walk on well-lit streets. Keep all your documents safe. And stay connected with your friends and family. Have fun, but responsibly. Some universities also have special programmes like ‘Buddy Systems’ to help international students settle down and see the city – remember to take advantage of that.

For emergencies, call the toll free number 111. This is a common number that can be used for fire, police, ambulance or search and rescue. Interpreters are also available, in case you are unable to explain in English. For medical emergencies, you can call 0800 611 116.

Visa

If you want to study in New Zealand, you’ll first have to obtain a student visa. The type of visa will depend on the kind of studies you want to pursue. There are 4 types of visas:

Students most commonly require a Fee Paying Student Visa. You’ll have to apply for your student visa application online on the New Zealand Immigration website. You can apply up to 120 days before your intended date of program’s start date.

To get your student visa, you’ll also have to provide evidence of proficiency in the English language

This means passing a secure English language test to be able to prove your communication and correspondence skills – usually The International English Language Testing System (IELTS). NZ educational institutions require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 band in each module.

Essential documents required

This part would usually be a nightmare, but with Vidyabroad, it’s a dream. When applying for your NZ student visa, you will need:

A passport, which must be valid for at least 3 months after your period of stay in New Zealand
A letter of acceptance from a New Zealand university, which states the minimum course duration, total tuition fee and whether the tuition fee is in a domestic and foreign currency. The course must be approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority
An offer of place from an educational institution approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority
A written guarantee from an institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand (only if you are under 18 years)
A return air ticket to your country, or evidence of sufficient funds to buy one
Academic documents such as transcripts, diplomas, degrees or certificates
The student visa application form
Tuition fee receipt showing date of payment
Passport-size photographs
Bank statements
Financial undertaking by a sponsor to cover accommodation and living costs
A police certificate if you are aged 17 years or over and plan to study for more than 24 months. A police certificate is a document which is used as evidence of good character
Full medical examination, including a chest x-ray for tuberculosis

You may also have to appear for a personal interview at the New Zealand embassy or consulate. These are basic requirements, please speak with your Vidyabroad counsellor for a detailed list of documents required for your visa processing.