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From college intake to visa guidelines, here's everything you'll need to know before signing up for a course in New Zealand.
The New Zealand government gives prominence on the value and quality of education provided which promotes growth and diversity.
New Zealand universities are dedicated to corroborate that international students receive a positive university experience.
In 2018, it was reported that there is a 15% surge in the number of Indian students deciding to study in New Zealand.
Indian students form an integral component of the student community in New Zealand.
Quality education offered at economical rates is a prominent reason students decide to study in New Zealand.
New Zealand industries work in tandem with the universities to ensure that it benefits the pupils.
As a growing economy, it is on the lookout for students that will help give it a boost.
If you are considering taking a course in New Zealand, here are some things you must know.
Levels of study
The education system in New Zealand is classified between Level 1 to Level 10 of study.
Level 1 to 4 are the formative years of education, eg: schooling.
Level 5 and 6 are the first and second year of college respectively through which students can attain certificates and diplomas, eg: 11th and 12th grade.
Level 7 is the Bachelor's Degree through which pupils can attain graduate certificates or graduate diplomas.
Level 8 on the other hand, is the Bachelor's Honours Degree through which pupils can attain Postgraduate Certificates or Postgraduate Diplomas.
Master’s Degree and Doctoral Degrees are at Level 9 and 10 respectively. Students earn certain credits upon which they can proceed to the next level.
Type of curriculum
The Bachelor’s programme incorporates a set number of courses, papers or units.
Each subject is divided into first, second and third year, the next year can only be commenced after successful completion of the previous study.
Students are required to attend tutorials, lectures and practical sessions. The curriculum is designed in such a manner that it inculcates values of independence and ingenuity.
Graduate Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma programmes are also provided.
Master’s degree are usually for one or two years which builds on preceding knowledge. The programme looks to advance the skills of students through seminar presentations, research, thesis and papers.
Intake
There are usually two intakes in February and July respectively, however certain universities offer May and September intakes as well. On the other hand, Polytechnics have multiple intakes.
Eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria varies according to the programme.
It is imperative that the student showcases adequate English Language proficiency.
To showcase the same either an IELTS or PTE exam may be required to be given.
Generally a score range of 6.0 to 6.5 for an undergraduate score is considered good. A score range of 6.5 to 7.5 for a postgraduate score is desirable.
Visa
Immigration New Zealand, is the solitary organisation of the government responsible for migration and entry to New Zealand.
If the course duration is greater than three months, one is required to have a student visa.
The course one pursues should be provided by institutions approved and registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
The student visa is issued for the duration of the course for which tuition fees are paid.
Payment of tuition fees to the university in advance is critical, because it is only when the tuition fees are received that the student attains an official receipt and Offer of Place Certificate.
These not only assure accommodation but are also critical for visa application. Although the student may have received an acceptance, the sole decision for visa lies with the Immigration Services.
The Immigration Service usually takes six weeks to process applications.
3 years of Post Study Work Visa
Upon graduation, students can get up to 3 years of post-study work visa. This is subject to, students meeting certain criteria and having acceptable qualifications.
Through this visa, the student can work for almost any employer and undertake any job. The length of the post-study work visa is determined by the qualifications received.
Tuition fee and expenses
The tuition fees largely depends upon the programme, however undergraduate programme usually range between NZ$20,000 to NZ$28,000. (approx Rs 9,07,790 to Rs 1,27,000)
Postgraduate courses on the other hand approximately range between NZ$24,000 to NZ$45,000 (approx Rs 10,89,000 to Rs 20,42,000).
Various accommodation facilities of halls of residence, student hostels, apartments are offered, the estimated cost of the same is between NZ$15,000 to NZ$18,000 per annum (approx 6,80,840 to Rs 8,17,000).
Students are expected to make a provision of roughly NZ$15,000 towards living expenditure.
Popular universities and courses
Popular cities in New Zealand include, Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston, North Wellington, Christchurch and many more.
There are eight state-funded universities in New Zealand, which are globally renowned for their academic and research performance.
New Zealand has 16 Polytechnics, that offer academic and vocational programmes.
Similarly, some of the prominent courses include, business, design, engineering, medical science, hotel management, information technology, tourism and more.
Scope of career
Upon completion of a two year degree, diploma or postgraduate programme in a course under the skilled shortage list, the student attains points in the Skilled Migrant category for Permanent Residency.
After achieving points one can apply for a job search visa of a year, where indication for permanent residency can be made.
If within the span of job search, a student gains a job offer they can either apply for Work Permit or Permanent Residency.
If the student has a New Zealand qualification, two years' requirement of work experience is waived off.
The Skill Shortage list is constantly updated by the government, so pupils should be aware of the same.
Tips for students
As the university takes six weeks to process the applications, if the student is looking for a February intake, application for the same should be made in August or September.
Pick a course that speaks to your interest and not something your peers have nudged you to.
The locals of New Zealand are affable individuals; therefore networking and traveling with them form on important element of the university experience.
Sushil Sukhwani is director, Edwise Overseas Educational Consultants.