For many Pakistani students, the prospect of receiving higher education is significant, and it's not easy to find a country where students can have both quality education and cheap living. The most targeted countries are, for example, the United States or the United Kingdom, but also they involve high costs and significant competition.
New Zealand is another country that has become a potential option as it offers low fees, a friendly environment for international students, and spectacular sceneries.
Education in New Zealand is well recognized in all parts of the world, and the degrees earned from universities in New Zealand open excellent career prospects for students.
Let's discuss all the information a prospective student intending to study in New Zealand would need, including admission requirements, visa application, estimated living expenses and possible employment. Swim the article to discover how New Zealand could fit your higher studies requirements.
Why Study in New Zealand?
Selecting the appropriate country is essential for when one wants to pursue higher studies abroad. Here's why New Zealand stands out as an ideal choice for Pakistani students:
High-Quality Education: Currently, the New Zealand education system has its roots deep in the British system, which is not only challenging but globally recognized. Credentials earned in its institutions are recognized almost everywhere, making it easier for students who pursue them to find employment in many nations.
Welcoming Environment: With a population density that allows people to be rather close-knit and welcoming to strangers, New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries in the world. It is home to numerous international learners who are assured of many organisations to turn to if they need assistance.
Beautiful and Diverse Landscapes: Studying in New Zealand also benefits travel and adventure. Its beautiful seasides, mountainous regions, and dynamic cities make the country ideal for people who think that nature is fantastic and adventurous.
Work Opportunities: Currently, New Zealand's work policies enable students to work while studying—part-time during study terms and full-time during holidays, which makes managing living costs possible.
Pathway to Residency: New Zealand has relatively good opportunities for Permanent residency for graduates. Students who undertake certain programs and secure employment in certain categories of careers have the opportunity to work and reside in the country for as long as they want.
Admission Requirements for New Zealand Universities
New Zealand's admission procedures are simple for students, but they must fulfil academic and language requirements. Here's a breakdown of the general admission requirements for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs:
1. Undergraduate Programs:
Minimum academic requirements: In general, Pakistani students require 75% or higher in their HSSC or any equivalent exam for admission into Master' s-level degree programs. Prefix standard score requirements exist in programs, especially in health-related or IT engineering.
English language proficiency: Because New Zealand is an English-speaking country, all applicants for any program must produce their ability to talk about the language. Accepted tests include:
IELTS: IELTS with a minimum of 6.0 and no less than 5.5 in any band.
TOEFL iBT: A score of at least 80.
PTE Academic: A minimum score of 50.
Additional Documents: DOC-required documents include a transcript, Valid passport, letters of recommendation and statement of purpose declaring the intended field of study.
2. Postgraduate Programs:
Bachelor's Degree: The candidates must have passed a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum of 75% or equivalent grade.
English proficiency: Applicants for postgraduate studies need to also present English test reports where necessary (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 90, or PTE 58).
Additional Requirements: Some programs may only consider candidates with work experience, candidates with a portfolio, or who present specific subject prerequisites. Letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose are also provided where they are demanded.
3. Doctoral (PhD) Programs:
Master's Degree: Full professional status calls for a Master's degree with good academic standing, the equivalent of B+ and above. The candidates welcome research experience.
English Proficiency: A good standard of literacy is necessary (IELTS 7,0 or higher, or its equivalent).
Research Proposal: When applying for the PhD programs, candidates must submit a research interest and intentions statement.
4. Application Process:
Choose a Program: First, depending on your career path, decide on the field and university where you would like to study.
Gather Documents: Gather all documents that may be needed, for example, transcripts, test of English proficiency scores and letters of recommendation.
Please apply Online: All universities in New Zealand allow the submission of online applications directly from their website.
Admission Deadlines: Depending on the university and its programs, the application may be closed from October to December.
New Zealand Student Visa Requirements
You would need to secure a student visa after receiving your acceptance letter. Here's a detailed look at the visa requirements and process:
1. Types of Student Visas:
Fee-Paying Student Visa: This is common for full-time students in New Zealand. It enables a student to learn and earn up to part-time during the week without exceeding 20 hours a week.
Pathway Student Visa: For those studying under several courses, this visa allows the successive study of up to three courses over five years.
2. Visa Requirements:
Acceptance Letter: A New Zealand institution enrollment documentation.
Financial Evidence: Documentation that the applicant can meet expenses on studying and living. Students require NZD 20,000 per year or NZD 1667 monthly for short-term courses.
Health and Character Certificates: A medical examination and a police clearance certificate.
Return Travel Proof: Return a transport ticket or money to purchase a ticket if needed.
English Proficiency: While your ability to get into university shows you are proficient, the visa might need extra proof.
3. Application Process:
Prepare Documents: All relevant documents, such as bank statements and health certificates, must be arranged.
Submit Online Application: Various forms can be found at Immigration New Zealand's official website. The processing time is about 4-6 weeks, so it is recommended that you apply as early as possible.
Visa Interview: Some students can sometimes be interviewed at the New Zealand Embassy or any of the Consulates without having to attend the earlier interview.
4. Visa Fee:
Currently, the student visa application fee costs around PKR 145800, and a service charge of PKR 6700 is extra for applicants who use the Visa Application Centre in Pakistan.
Estimated Study and Living Costs in New Zealand for Pakistani Students
Tuition fees in New Zealand remain relatively cheaper than in many other developed countries, and the cost of living is still relatively low.
1. Tuition Fees:
Undergraduate Programs: To be safe, international students budget from NZD 22,000 to NZD 32,000 per year, depending on the program and the university.
Postgraduate Programs: NZD 26,000 to NZD 37,000 per year.
PhD Programs: Foreign students learn the same as local students, and tuition costs500 and NZD 9,000 annually.
2. Purposes:
Accommodation:
On-campus: NZD $180–$200 per week.
Shared flat: NZD 120–$180 per week.
Private apartment: NZD 200–$350 per week.
Food: The cost of groceries consumed per month is about $300-$500, and restaurant bills per dish are about $10-$20.
Transportation: Using sports passes costs between NZD 120-$250 per mo and $250 per month, depending on the distance. Miscellaneous: Transport, food, movies, and the little extras can cost NZD 150 monthly.
3. Working While Studying:
International students are allowed to work 20 hours a week during term time and while the term is off. Currently, the minimum wage in New Zealand is about NZD $16 per hour, which allows students to pay their bills and other expenses.
Also Read:
Scholarships for Pakistani Students in New Zealand
Several scholarships are granted to Pakistani students, which attenuate the cost issue to a great extent. Here are some notable options:
University-Specific Scholarships: For example, universities like the University of Auckland and Victoria University of Wellington provide scholarships based on students' performance and economic condition.
New Zealand Government Scholarships: The New Zealand Scholarship is a whole or partial scholarship for students in eligible countries, including Pakistan. The scholarships include but are not limited to, tuition fees and other living and travelling expenses.
External Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fulbright are some organisations that offer funds to support outstanding students who wish to study in other countries.
In this case, early research of the available scholarship deadlines is vital to attracting financial assistance.
Part-Time Job Opportunities for International Students
New Zealand presents itself as a country with numerous jobs open to international students. Most people work half-time to meet daily needs and gain experience from other jobs.
Job Types: Some daily work activities include ending the saving rates, increasing the number of sellers, improving or extending the number of checkouts, and raising the number of shops or stores. Some students also engage in tutorial services, research assistance or freelancer services.
Earnings: The minimum wage is close to $16 NZD per hour. With skills and experience, students can obtain better-paid occupations.
Work Restrictions:
● Undergraduate students: No more than two whole days during term time.
● Postgraduate (Master's/PhD) students: There are no limitations concerning working hours.
Finding Jobs: Some of the most useful websites for part-time jobs are Seek, Indeed, and Student Job Search. All universities also have placement services to help students in the job market after college.
Post-Graduation Opportunities and Pathway to Permanent Residency
After completing studies, New Zealand provides several opportunities for students interested in getting employment experience or immigration to New Zealand.
Post-Study Work Visa: The applicants are eligible for a post-work study visa that may last one to three years, depending on qualifications. This freedom enables the students to work for any employer, thus increasing their opportunities to acquire experience that may lead to lasting employment in New Zealand.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: New Zealand's points-based residence program is biased towards skilled migrants. International graduates with qualifications in high-demand fields can earn points based on the following:
● Education and skill level
● New Zealand work experience
● Age and other factors
Skilled Migrant Category: Any person with qualifications as prescribed by the Skilled Migrant Category can apply for the residency. This path is especially beneficial to professionals in the healthcare profession, the engineering industry and the information technology field.
Final Thoughts on Studying in New Zealand for Pakistani Students
New Zealand is exceptionally friendly to Pakistani students, and the cost of living here is significantly low compared to major English-speaking countries, so is the hassle, making New Zealand an ideal study destination for the students of Pakistan. Education in the country encourages students to research, effective thinking and practical experiences that equip them for international jobs.
If you are prepared to embark on a powerful learning experience that is rich in academic qualifications and employment prospects, then New Zealand is waiting for you. Be a true adventurer and open the door to opportunities while pursuing education in a foreign country.