Why Study in New Zealand?

New Zealand is one of the world’s most naturally gifted, beautiful countries, with many strong academic and career opportunities for international students. Among many reasons to study in New Zealand, some of the most prominent are: 

• Academic Excellence: New Zealand has educational institutions providing a world-class education system. Its eight universities consistently rank in the top 3% globally (QS World University Rankings 2023).
• Programs and Courses Diversity: New Zealand has a wide range of options for undergraduate, postgraduate, doctorate, or vocational studies. From science to arts, humanities to business, its educational institutions have every course for international students.
• Culturally Warm & Welcoming: New Zealand has a multicultural environment that promotes inclusivity and understanding. International students feel relaxed and friendly, making it easier for them to adapt and feel almost at home.

Experience a World-Class Education in New Zealand

New Zealand is an incredibly great study destination for international students who look for professional excellence, and to make their careers strong as rock. As to the rest, the tuition fees for international students cost next to nothing. 

The country has the world’s most highly-ranked universities with top-tier education standards. The country’s eight universities consistently hold top positions in global rankings and offer a wide range of courses at different degree levels.

In the bargain, education in New Zealand is student-centered, focusing on continuous learning and setting a strong foundation for professional excellence. Not only that, the universities follow an enrollment ratio of 6:7 for teachers and students, which means there is always better interaction. 

Top Universities in New Zealand for International Students

Unlike most countries, New Zealand's higher education system is entirely unique and does not have any private universities. The country’s tertiary education system comprises only eight public universities. 

These universities are globally known for their higher education quality, faculty standards, and research focus. If you are planning to study in the country, these are the top universities in New Zealand that are accepting international students:

1. University of Auckland (located in Auckland)
2. University of Otago (located in Dunedin)
3. Auckland University of Technology (located in Auckland)
4. University of Canterbury (located in Christchurch)
5. Victoria University of Wellington (located in Wellington)
6. Massey University (located in Palmerston North)
7. The University of Waikato (located in Hamilton)
8. Lincoln University (located in Lincoln)

Study in New Zealand Without IELTS 

If you want to study in New Zealand Without IELTS, language proficiency is certainly important when applying for a New Zealand study visa. The visa authorities always look if the visa applicant meets the minimum language proficiency threshold.

International students, particularly from non-English speaking countries are required to showcase their language proficiency either through a certificate of English medium or any of these language test scores:

• IELTS 
• TOEFL
• PTE
• Duolingo
• NZCEL (New Zealand Certificate in the English Language)
• CPE or CAE

However, not every university will accept alternative test scores. These are universities that accept international students without IELTS:

• The University of Auckland
• University of Otago
• Massey University
• Victoria University of Wellington
• University of Waikato
• Lincoln University

Best Courses to Study in New Zealand

In New Zealand, universities exclusively focus on maintaining international standards and providing world-class education. Therefore, these universities offer courses in almost every known discipline. For instance, there are more than 110 Master’s programs offered in engineering discipline. 

That’s not it, we have researched the best courses to study in New Zealand for international students. These courses return the best of your time when going to looking for a job. Among many others, the best courses to study in New Zealand are:

• Computer Science
• Software Development
• Cybersecurity
• Data Science
• Civil Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Earthquake Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• International Business
• Psychology
• Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Agriculture
• Horticulture
• Viticulture
• Environmental Science

How much does it cost to Study in New Zealand? 

The cost of studying in New Zealand mainly depends on course, degree level, university, funding options, accommodation type, and lifestyle. You can expect the total cost to range from NZ$ 25,000 to NZ$ 35,000. The estimated breakdown of the study in New Zealand cost is:

• Tuition Fees:
  
• Undergraduate Studies: NZ$ 22,000 to NZ$ 32,000 per year
• Postgraduate studies: NZ$ 26,000 to NZ$ 37,000 per year
• MBA Programs: NZ$ 31,000 to NZ$ 50,000 per year
• Living Expenses:
  
• Accommodation: NZ$ 700 to NZ$ 900 per month for a single student.
• Food: NZ $80 to 120 per month on groceries.
• Utilities Bills: NZ $ 100 to 140 per month.

Requirements to Study in New Zealand

International students must have certain documents to meet the eligibility criteria for university admission and visa purposes. New Zealand universities require international students to have academic documents. The requirements to study in New Zealand for international students are:

Governmental Documents:

• A valid passport
• Police clearance certificate
• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Medical test result
• Health and Travel Insurance

Academic Documents:

• Completed secondary education transcripts (HSC or O-Levels)
• A certificate stating the student studied classes 8 to 12 in an English medium.
• Language proficiency test score (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo)
• Standardized test scores (GMAT, etc.)
• Previous academic degrees
• Statement of Purpose 
• Letter of recommendation (LOR)
• Letter of Work Experience.

Financial Documents:

• Bank Statement (Past 3 months) showing sufficient funds.
• Sponsorship Undertaking (if applicable)
• Scholarship Letter (if applicable)
• Evidence of Paid Tuition Fees

Intakes in New Zealand For International Students

Like most international universities, New Zealand universities typically offer two main intakes for international students, including Bangladeshi students. The intakes in New Zealand are:

• Semester 1 (Autumn Intake): This intake begins in January and ends in June or July. However, most university deadlines end in February. Many universities accept international students in undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
• Semester 2 (Spring Intake): This intake begins in July and ends in November or December. It is the most preferred intake with the highest courses undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered.
• Rolling Intakes: New Zealand’s unique feature is the availability of rolling intakes (also known as flexible intakes). These intakes allow students to start their courses at any time of the year, unlike at the beginning of the academic year.

How Can I Get a Job in New Zealand?

New Zealand allows international students to work during their studies, only depending on enrollment type. International students can work full-time if they are enrolled in a full-time program, which should have a duration of more than two years.

International students can work up to 20 hours per week if enrolled in part-time studies. You can easily get jobs if you are well-prepared. Here are the best ways to find jobs in New Zealand for international students are: 

• Job Portal: You can find many part-time jobs using job portals (such as Indeed, Seek, Trade Me, and Linkedin).
• On-Campus Jobs: Many universities have part-time positions within libraries, cafes, administrative offices, or student support services.
• Campus Noticeboards & Student Groups: You can find many job postings on university job noticeboards or within student groups within your field of study.

How to Get PR in New Zealand After Study?

International graduates can easily get permanent residency (PR) in New Zealand if they meet the eligibility criteria for a Skilled Migrant Category Visa. This program is perfect for students who want to contribute to the country’s economy. 

The skilled Migrant category is a point-based system, where you need 150-160 points to apply. In addition to this, your age, foreign qualification, work experience, and language skills count towards the final score.

You can get PR in New Zealand after study completion by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the New Zealand Immigration Authority. After calculating your scores, they will select you based on merit within a few weeks. Once selected, you will submit the necessary documents and get permanent residency.