Ranked second on the Global Peace Index 2022, New Zealand stands out as one of the safest countries to pursue education. With globally recognized universities and an adaptive education system, it offers Indian students a blend of opportunities, culture, economy, and climate that is ideal for personal and academic growth. Plus, the country's stunning natural landscapes add to the overall experience.
If you're an Indian student planning to study in New Zealand, here are some notable scholarship programs you can explore:
Funded by the New Zealand government, this scholarship is for Indian students aiming to pursue a PhD in New Zealand. The award covers university tuition fees, associated student levies, a living stipend (up to NZ$25,000 tax-free), and health insurance (up to NZ$600 annually) for three years.
Indian students applying for a master’s degree or PhD can consider the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP). This scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel, health insurance, and an establishment allowance. Some benefits include:
The NZEA offers scholarships across all eight universities in New Zealand, giving Indian students a chance to experience excellence in various fields. Funded by Education New Zealand (ENZ) and New Zealand universities, this scholarship is available for both postgraduate and undergraduate programs. The scholarship provides NZ$5,000 each for postgraduate courses and NZ$10,000 each for undergraduate courses.
For those interested in agricultural emission science, this program covers a range of expenses over three years, including:
Funded by the Soshi Educational Group, this scholarship supports studies in geophysics and related geosciences at both undergraduate and other program levels. Scholarship values are:
Sponsored by the City Council of Palmerston North, this scholarship is aimed at promoting the city as an attractive destination for international students. It is available for career-based/vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses, offering NZ$1,000 towards the first year's tuition fees.
If you’re over 18 years old and planning to study in New Zealand for more than six months, here’s a brief overview of the available student visa types:
1. Fee-Paying Student Visa
Study full-time for up to four years and work part-time.
2. Exchange Student Visa
Study full-time for up to four years as part of an approved student exchange program.
3. Foreign Government Supported Student Visa
Study full-time for up to four years with a foreign government loan or scholarship.
4. Pathway Student Visa
Study for up to five years for three consecutive courses on a single student visa, with the option to work part-time.
For more detailed information, visit the New Zealand Government’s Immigration website.
While humanities, arts, and education courses are generally less expensive, fields like medicine and engineering may have higher tuition fees. Postgraduate programs typically have higher costs, especially MBA programs, which range between NZ$31,000 and NZ$50,000 annually.
Cost Estimates (in NZ$):
Please note that all figures are indicative.
New Zealand universities typically have two main intakes:
Vocational courses may also have intakes in March, April, and May.
Education in New Zealand is structured into five stages:
1. What are the eligibility criteria to study in New Zealand?
2. Which exams are required for studying in New Zealand?
3. What IELTS score is needed for New Zealand?
To qualify for a student visa in New Zealand, you need a minimum IELTS band score of 5.5. However, for university admission, a minimum overall band score of 6 is generally required, with at least 5.5 in each section.
4. What are pathway programs in New Zealand?
Pathway programs in New Zealand universities are designed to help international students meet entry requirements, choose the right program, or bridge gaps in their previous education. These programs are particularly beneficial for students who may not meet certain course entry requirements or are uncertain about their program choice.