With its pleasant environment and high standard of education, New Zealand is a top destination for many prospective international students. The New Zealand government has introduced numerous favorable policies for international students, which have significantly boosted the development of the country's education sector. Consequently, an increasing number of Chinese students are choosing to study in New Zealand. Let's take a look at the beneficial policies for studying in New Zealand.
High Visa Approval Rates and No Language Requirements
There are no language requirements for applying to study in New Zealand; students can complete language training before entering their professional studies. Since New Zealand universities generally do not accept high school graduates directly into undergraduate programs, foundation courses serve as the best preparation for university entry. The absence of language requirements eases the burden for many students.
Relaxed Immigration Policies
New Zealand is an immigrant-friendly nation with ample annual immigration quotas. Following the immigration policy adjustments in July 2009, it has become even more favorable for individuals with technical skills but lower academic qualifications to remain in New Zealand for career development. New Zealand is renowned as one of the most livable countries in the world. Furthermore, it is one of the top three immigration destinations globally, with immigration policies that are more relaxed than those of Australia and Canada; students can apply for permanent residency if they secure a job within one year of graduation.
Moreover, as a welfare state, New Zealand is a perfect example of humanitarian spirit in practice. Any holder of a New Zealand Green Card can enjoy the following benefits: free public healthcare, free maternity care, free primary and secondary education, unemployment benefits, government pensions, and visa-free travel to 125 developed countries in Europe and America after naturalization.
High Cost-Effectiveness and Low Tuition Fees
Compared to the expensive tuition fees in other countries, tuition in New Zealand is relatively low. Studying in the UK or the US typically costs over 250,000 RMB per year, while countries like Canada and Australia cost between 200,000 and 250,000 RMB annually. Currently, the annual tuition for an undergraduate program in New Zealand is around 80,000 RMB, and with living expenses, the total annual cost is between 120,000 and 130,000 RMB.
Compared to other developed Commonwealth countries, the cost of studying in New Zealand is the lowest. Students wishing to pursue a PhD in New Zealand have the opportunity to receive scholarships, and even if they are unsuccessful, their costs are as low as those of local students. The New Zealand government allows international students to work reasonable hours to supplement their living expenses (20 hours per week, with full-time work permitted during holidays), and part-time earnings can cover living costs in New Zealand.
Safe Social Environment
Currently, regarding some mainstream study-abroad destinations, many parents and students are adopting a wait-and-see attitude toward studying in the United States following news of frequent violent incidents.
One of the Best Education Systems in the World
New Zealand's education system is highly favored by domestic parents and is regarded as one of the best in the world. In New Zealand, the entire society takes responsibility for education, with a unified national education system and education expenditure ranking third in government spending. Academic qualifications are recognized by international educational institutions and society at large.
New Zealand's education follows the British system, focusing on cultivating students' critical thinking, learning abilities, and innovation. It is particularly worth noting that, compared to the passive learning model in China, New Zealand's education advocates for students' spontaneous research and exploration, fully mobilizing their enthusiasm to complete their studies and encouraging an educational model of active inquiry.
Valuing International Students with Relaxed Policies
New Zealand places great importance on international students and maintains relatively relaxed policies. For students pursuing postgraduate degrees or higher, if their major is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, their spouses may accompany them and are permitted to work. During their studies, students are allowed to work 20 hours per week. The New Zealand academic system is very flexible; after completing language courses, students can adjust their study plans, change majors, switch universities, or transfer to other countries based on their personal circumstances.
For parents of younger students, they may choose to accompany their children or arrange for school guardianship. The open work visa offers significant benefits to graduates, allowing holders to enjoy the same tax and pension benefits as local residents.