As being recognized as one of the top international study destinations globally, New Zealand’s higher education system has a unique appeal that draws overseas aspirants. Education from this country is recognized internationally, allowing international students to do their best in their respective careers.
Furthermore, the institutions offer a rich campus life with numerous advantages for international students to help them study at ease. Education in New Zealand is monitored and regulated by the NZ government which offers a wide range of programs, research opportunities and even part-time working rights.
This article highlights the essential components of the New Zealand higher education system that will help you understand what studying in the country is really like!
Why Study in New Zealand?
Considering higher education abroad requires a detailed study of all the prospective study destinations that interest you. However, choosing New Zealand as your study abroad destination is no more a hassle when you come to know that all 8 high-quality universities in the country are among the top 500 universities globally! This makes Germany the only country in the world to have all its universities in the global top 500.
The country has affordable fee structure options with plenty of scholarships available to avail. In part-time working rights, students get 20 hours per week during classes and 40 hours per week during their holidays. After completing their studies, they can stay in New Zealand for up to three years, which is enough for them to solidify their career prospects in the country.
New Zealand Education Hierarchy for Higher Education
The hierarchy of the New Zealand Higher education system is as follows:
- Language proficiency tests, foundation programs or certifications (if any.)
- Diploma
- Bachelor’s Degree, Graduate Certificates, Diploma
- Bachelor’s Honor Degree, Post-graduate Certificates and Diploma
- Master’s Degree
- Doctoral Degree
New Zealand comprises three types of educational Institutions: Universities, Institute of Technology and Polytechnics, and Private Tertiary and Training Establishments.
Following are the top 8 universities in New Zealand:
- University of Auckland, Auckland
- Massey University, Palmerston North
- Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington
- University of Waikato, Hamilton, North Island
- University of Canterbury, Christchurch
- Lincoln University, Lincoln
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland
- University of Otago, Dunedin
Intakes Offered
New Zealand offers two intakes: February and July. However, these intakes are only for the universities. Because the ITPs and Private Institutions held multiple intakes as well for different courses. There is no deadline for sending out applications; but to avoid last-minute hassles, you should make applications at least 6 months before the starting date.
Entry Requirements and Academic Tenure for Degrees
Below is the bifurcation of the entry requirements for different course levels to study in New Zealand:
- The UG diploma is 2 years which requires at least 50-55% in the 12th
- The bachelor’s degree is 3 years and requires at least 60% in the 12th standard.
- Bachelor’s degree diploma is of 1 year which requires at least 60% in the bachelors.
- Master’s degree is of 1 to 2 years which requires at least 65% in the bachelors.
Language Proficiency Entry Requirements
Below are the Language proficiency entry requirements:
- For undergraduate diploma (level 6): 0 is required with no band less than 5.5
- For Bachelors (Level 7): 6.0 is required with no band less than 5.5
- For Graduate Diplomas (Level 7): 6.0 is required with no band less than 5.5
- For Postgraduate Diplomas (Level 8)- 6.5 is required with no band less than 6.0
- For Masters (Level 9)- 6.5 is required with no band less than 6.0
Higher Education Tuition Fee in New Zealand
- Tuition fee at Universities: For diplomas, the average fee required is between $25,000 – $33,000. For a bachelor’s degree, the estimated fee required is $25,000 – $40,000. For a master’s degree, the estimated fee required is $30,000 – $55,000.
- Tuition fee at the Institute of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs): For diplomas, the average fee required is between $17,000 – $20,000. For a bachelor’s degree, the estimated fee required is $18,000 – $22,000. For a master’s degree, the estimated fee required is $19,000 – $25,000.
Popular Scholarships in New Zealand for Higher Education
Following are some of the renowned scholarships in New Zealand that international students can benefit from:
- New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
- New Zealand Excellence Awards
- Wellington International Excellence Scholarship
- Victoria Tongarewa Scholarship
- University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship
This article emphasized the major components of the New Zealand education system. The New Zealand education system stands out for its student-centered approach and commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment.
If you have decided on New Zealand for your overseas education, then congratulations! You are one step closer to your perfect academic journey. However, for more information on how to study in New Zealand, you can connect with the study abroad consultants who will resolve your queries and guide you through your overseas education journey.
