[:en]Why study in New Zealand?
Have you been dreaming of New Zealand over the years? Well then it looks like you have an opportunity to say “Kia ora” instead of “Ni hao!” very soon!
That’s right! New Zealand is the new wave in the world of international education and is a super warm and welcoming country, for Singaporean and other International students.
Life in New Zealand is a complete package; from the high-quality education to the unbeatable culture and lifestyle. From modern cities to country towns, there are places and their cultures you can explore. You can enjoy all of this in serenity as according to the Global Peace Index, 2018, New Zealand is the world’s second-most peaceful country.
According to the QS World University rankings, all New Zealand’s 8 universities are in the top 3% in the world. New Zealand is also home to some of the world’s top research facilities and academic institutions.
Here are some of the key reasons why you should consider studying in New Zealand as a Singaporean student:-
1. A high-class and globally recognized education system
New Zealand’s high-class education system is supported with 8 universities, 16 Institutes of Technology & Polytechnics and a number of private institutions.
Graduating from any of these institutions in New Zealand will definitely add to your career profile. Their education is globally recognised, more specifically their universities, for their excellent postgraduate programmes.
There are many courses you can explore, such as STEM, Arts, Hospitality, etc. Their outstanding education system proves to be a great return on investment for students worldwide. The QS World University Rankings 2020, seven of New Zealand’s universities were in the top 100 in at least one subject.
As an acknowledgement for the country’s reputation in the educational sector, New Zealand has signed agreements with groups of European and Asia-Pacific countries that commit to recognising each other’s qualifications.
This includes the Lisbon Recognition Convention in Europe. It has been signed by 50 countries and international organisations including the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, Russia and Israel.
2. Fundings and Scholarships
Thinking of how you can tackle the financial strain? Don’t worry! The New Zealand Government, universities and private institutions provide various scholarships for international students seeking to study in New Zealand.
Scholarships will help you stand out as deserving candidates in a career of your choice and add significant value to your resume. In a way, it also serves as an acknowledgement of your knowledge and passion for the subject.
3. Places to Visit
Are you someone who loves to explore the outside world and always up for an adventure?
Well then, New Zealand is just the country for you! The country is packed with adventure and has many places to explore with a vast range of adventure activities for students.
Just like Singapore, New Zealand is an island nation. So, if you're a person who loves the mountains, you can take a leisure drive to North Island and enjoy hiking or a picnic with your new friends!
North Island is where you will find Auckland (the largest city), Wellington (the capital), Matamata (“Hobbiton”) and Tongariro (“Mordor”).
For someone who loves beaches, the South Island is the right place. You can view the beautiful sight of Gondola while sitting in a cable car, or surf the waters of the Summer Beach at the largest city of South Island - Christchurch.
The best part about being on an adventure is that by exploring these places, you will be able to meet new people and make new connections. Enjoy new cultural experiences that are available on and off-campus to know more about your study destination.
4. Eager to build a ‘professional life’?
Wish to live an independent life, manage your expenses and be your own accountant? Explore your part-time work opportunities in the country!
Being an international student, you are allowed to work 20 hours a week. During scheduled holidays like Christmas and New Year, you can work full-time if you wish to!
Working part-time is one of the best ways to meet a lot of interesting people and build your professional network. Another important benefit of working is, you can develop your skills in communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
Your professional life is based on how you build it while studying itself. Most of the connections we make during this period come across as helpful in the future.
Also, working part-time should not affect your studies, so make sure you balance your work hours with your study obligations.
5. Have fun dining out, or dining in!
Do you crave for a taste of home-cooked meals? Well, since buying fruits and vegetables from the local market is much cheaper than buying in a supermarket in New Zealand, you get to save money as well!
New Zealand is also famous for its culinary delights and there are also some meals, snacks, and desserts that they are extremely proud to claim as their own. The traditional ‘Maori Hangi’, Kiwi burger, Jaffas, Roast lamb are a favourite among New Zealanders.
Oh! Did someone say discounts? Yes! As a student in New Zealand, you will receive a Student Card. You can use this card to get discounts on selective restaurants, local stores and entertainment outlets.
You can check out details of the Student Card here.
6. Enjoy travelling around the country!
All the cities in New Zealand and towns have buses, and some areas offer cheaper bus fares for students. Other modes of transportation include bus, train and ferries.
Hop-on-hop-off buses are also a popular way to get around New Zealand, especially among the backpackers. And if you are a traveller driven by wanderlust, this will be exciting news for you!
AT HOP Card is the first thing that you need to get before travelling in Auckland.
But what is the AT HOP Card?
Well, if you want to travel to Auckland via any mode of transportation, this is the card you need to keep in your wallets! It will help you reduce your travel expense to a certain amount. For instance, you can save up to 25% on a single trip.
In Auckland and Wellington, you also have train services to outer suburbs. So you can simply hop on a train and enjoy the peaceful suburbs on your day off!
7. Accommodation made simple and inexpensive
From apartments in the city to homestays in the countryside, you will find something that suits you and your lifestyle.
Hostels, homestay, flats and dorms are some of the accommodations that are available for international students in New Zealand.
The accommodation cost will vary depending on where and how you want to live. The national median rent for a 3-4 bedroom house is NZ$565 per week, or NZ$215 a room per week.
Most of the flats and homestay include basic equipment such as an oven, dishwasher, washing machine and clothes dryer.
Get to know some friendly New Zealanders, develop your skills and get a close look at New Zealand’s relaxed lifestyle and exciting culture.
Get Ready to go!
New Zealand is a country that has so much to offer and now’s the time for you to choose your adventure path! In New Zealand, each day is a new adventure, and there is something for everyone here.
Do you want to know more about studying in New Zealand? Connect with our AECC Global education experts for better guidance.[:]
