The academic year
for higher education in New Zealand runs from March to November. However, some
courses may also allow students to start in July. Most universities in New
Zealand have just two terms (semesters), with the exception of Victoria
University of Wellington, which has three terms (trimesters).
As well as having
completed secondary level qualifications recognized by New Zealand’s
universities, applicants also need to prove English language proficiency,
usually by taking the IELTS or TOEFL exams. New Zealand does not have a
centralized university applications service, so students need to apply
individually to each university they’re interested in. Deadlines for this are
set by each institution.
Visas to study in
New Zealand
Those who are
planning to study in New Zealand for more than three months need to apply for a
student visa (for less than three months, a visitor visa is fine). New Zealand
student visa requirements include:
- Proof of an offer of a place at
an approved institution
- Evidence of sufficient funds to
cover living expenses and a flight back to your home country
- Health insurance
- For those under 18, a letter
guaranteeing suitable accommodation has been arranged
- For those over 17, a police
certificate of good character
- For courses over 12 months,
medical certificates, which may include screening for tuberculosis
Visa applications are made via the nearest branch of the New
Zealand Immigration organization. The application fee varies depending on where
you’re applying from.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees in New Zealand vary depending both on the institution
and the subject. As an example, in 2014, international students taking an
undergraduate law degree could expect to be charged between NZ$25,000
(US$19,408) and NZ$30,000 (US$23,290) per year. A full list of fees for each
subject and at each university is provided by Universities New Zealand,
the organization which represents New Zealand's universities.
