Studying in New Zealand from Nepal has become increasingly popular among Nepalese students in recent years. New Zealand is a top choice for international students due to its world-renowned education system, high quality of life, and stunning natural landscapes. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of studying in New Zealand from Nepal, the admission requirements for Nepalese students, the cost of living and tuition fees, student life in New Zealand, post-study work opportunities, and settlement options. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what it takes to study in New Zealand from Nepal and why it’s worth considering as a study destination.
Why go to study in New Zealand from Nepal
Studying in New Zealand from Nepal provides Nepalese students with several benefits, including:
- Quality education: New Zealand’s education system is world-renowned for its high standards of teaching, research, and facilities. Studying in New Zealand provides Nepalese students with access to top-quality education and research opportunities.
- Career prospects: New Zealand has a strong job market and offers excellent career opportunities to international students. Graduates of New Zealand universities are highly sought after by employers worldwide.
- Multicultural environment: New Zealand is a diverse and multicultural country that welcomes international students with open arms. Nepalese students will have the opportunity to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds, broadening their horizons and enhancing their personal growth.
- Scholarships and financial support: New Zealand offers several scholarships and financial support options for international students, including the New Zealand Scholarships for International Tertiary Students and the New Zealand Aid Programme Scholarships. These scholarships can help Nepalese students cover their tuition fees and living expenses while studying in New Zealand.
Admission Requirements in New Zealand for Nepali Students
To study in New Zealand from Nepal, Nepalese students must meet the following admission requirements:
- Language proficiency: Nepalese students must demonstrate their proficiency in English by taking an internationally recognized language test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The minimum score required for admission varies depending on the institution and program.
- Academic transcripts: Nepalese students must submit their academic transcripts and certificates, including their high school and/or bachelor’s degree transcripts.
- Other requirements: In addition to language proficiency and academic transcripts, Nepalese students may be required to submit letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and/or a portfolio of work, depending on the program they are applying for.
- Application process: Nepalese students can apply to study in New Zealand directly to the institution or through an education agent. The application process typically involves filling out an online application form, submitting the required documents, and paying the application fee.
- Application deadlines: The application deadlines for New Zealand universities vary depending on the institution and program. Generally, the application deadlines for the February intake are in November, while the application deadlines for the July intake are in April.
It’s important for Nepalese students to carefully review the admission requirements and application process for the institution and program they are interested in before applying to ensure they meet all the necessary requirements and deadlines.
Cost of Living and Tuition Fees in New Zealand for Nepali Students
The cost of living in New Zealand is largely higher than in Nepal, with expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation being more expensive. According to Numbeo, the cost of living index in New Zealand is around 83% higher than in Nepal. However, the higher cost of living is offset by higher wages, which means that international students can earn enough to cover their living expenses while studying in New Zealand.
Tuition fees in New Zealand vary depending on the institution and program of study. As an estimate, the tuition fees for international students in New Zealand range from NZD 22,000 to NZD 32,000 per year for undergraduate programs and from NZD 26,000 to NZD 37,000 per year for postgraduate programs. Business, engineering, and medical programs are generally more expensive.
International students in New Zealand are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the holidays. Part-time work opportunities for international students are available in industries such as hospitality, retail, and agriculture. The minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD 20 per hour, which is higher than the minimum wage in Nepal. Working part-time can help international students offset their living expenses and gain valuable work experience while studying in New Zealand.
In short, while the cost of living in New Zealand is higher than in Nepal, the opportunity to earn a higher wage and gain work experience, combined with the quality of education and living standards, make it an attractive study destination for Nepalese students.
Student Life in New Zealand for International Students
New Zealand offers a vibrant and multicultural student life with a welcoming and friendly environment. International students can enjoy a diverse range of experiences and activities, as well as make new friends from different cultures.
Accommodation options for international students in New Zealand include university halls of residence, homestays, shared apartments, and private rentals. University accommodation provides students with a safe and supportive environment while they adjust to life in New Zealand. Homestays allow students to live with a local family and experience New Zealand culture firsthand. Shared apartments and private rentals offer more independence and flexibility.
In addition to academic studies, international students can participate in various student activities and clubs in New Zealand. These may include sports, cultural activities, music, drama, and volunteering opportunities. International students can also join clubs that cater to their specific cultural backgrounds or interests, such as Nepalese student associations.
New Zealand universities also offer a range of support services for international students, including academic support, career services, counseling, and health services. These services can help students adjust to life in New Zealand and achieve their academic and personal goals.
Post-Study Work and Settlement for Nepalese Students in New Zealand
International students who complete a degree or diploma in New Zealand may be eligible for a post-study work visa. This visa allows graduates to work in New Zealand for up to three years, depending on the level of their qualification. The post-study work visa provides an opportunity for graduates to gain work experience in their field of study and potentially transition to permanent residency.
The Skilled Migrant Category Visa is a points-based visa category that allows skilled workers to live and work in New Zealand permanently. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet certain criteria, including age, qualifications, work experience, and English language proficiency. Applicants are awarded points based on these criteria and must achieve a minimum score to be considered for the visa.
New Zealand has a strong and growing job market, with opportunities in various industries such as healthcare, technology, construction, and agriculture. The government of New Zealand has identified these industries as high-growth sectors and is actively encouraging skilled workers to come and work in New Zealand. This provides opportunities for international students to find employment and potentially apply for permanent residency.
International students in New Zealand have access to post-study work opportunities and a pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category Visa. The strong job market and government initiatives to attract skilled workers make New Zealand an attractive destination for students looking to settle and work after graduation.
Major intakes in New Zealand for International students
In New Zealand, there are two major intakes for international students each year: February and July. These intakes align with the academic calendar of New Zealand universities and provide international students with the opportunity to study in the same academic year as domestic students.
The February intake is the larger of the two and is the main intake for most universities. This intake usually has a longer application period and allows students to apply for a wider range of courses and programs.
The July intake, also known as the mid-year or winter intake, is a smaller intake and may have more limited course options. However, this intake provides an opportunity for students who missed the February intake or who need more time to prepare their application.
It’s important for international students to be aware of the application deadlines for their chosen universities and programs. These deadlines may vary depending on the institution and program, so students should check with the relevant university for specific information.
Wrapping up
Studying in New Zealand offers a range of benefits for Nepalese students during and after completion of their studies. The quality of education and research opportunities in New Zealand are high, and international students have access to scholarships and financial support. The cost of living in New Zealand may be higher than Nepal, but part-time work opportunities can help offset expenses.
New Zealand offers a vibrant and multicultural student life, with various accommodation options and student activities. International students can also benefit from support services offered by universities.
After graduation, international students may be eligible for post-study work visas and a pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category Visa. The strong job market and government initiatives to attract skilled workers make New Zealand an attractive destination for Nepalese students looking to settle and work after graduation.
Nepalese students should consider the opportunities available in New Zealand and explore the potential benefits of studying there if planning to study abroad.