New Zealand
Country Overview for International Students
A student’s journey at a New Zealand university will lead to professional as well as personal growth. There are an extraordinary range of unique opportunities available for students.
During their time at any New Zealand university, graduates will develop the self-belief to be whoever they want to be, and to feel confident and excited about their future.
Here we will talk about:
- Important facts for international applicants
- NZ interesting facts
- Main NZ industries
- Fun facts about NZ you probably didn’t know
Do you want to learn more about study and life in New Zealand from ex-international students and experts? Check out these pages
Important facts for international applicants
Population
With a population of 5 mln, the lowest corruption worldwide and a favourable business environment, NZ is a land of opportunity for local and international students.
Post-study work Rights
International students pay higher fees than locals. However, upon graduation, international students get post-study work visas for 1-3 years, making it possible to stay and look for jobs in NZ
Unemployment rate
The current unemployment rate ranges between 3,4 and 5%, which indicates a healthy economy!
Scholarships
New Zealand offers some scholarships to international students, but not that many.
Work while studying
Both international and local students can work part-time while studying in a full-time higher ed programme. Partners of international students can
work full-time in certain cases. 20 NZD per hour is the min hourly wage!
How expensive is it?
You will need around 1,800 NZD per month to eat, rent a room, and have a social life in New Zealand!
Interesting facts about New Zeland
80%
of New Zealand’s electricity generation is from renewable sources.
In 1893
Home to sheep
NZ is home to around 30 million sheep, meaning that there are approximately 6 sheep for every person
No land snakes
There are no land snakes, native or introduced, in New Zealand.
Average Annual Income – Various Industries
New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world that offers you the opportunity to work while you study
According to Ministry of Education
research, higher qualifications usually lead to higher incomes, although the subjects you choose are also important. Employers often look for candidates with a broad range of skills, but there are a lot of opportunities for those with no prior skills.
Fun facts about NZ you probably didn’t know
Outdoor Lovers
A relatively small, laid-back country with a lot of outdoor space, New Zealanders have a great love for the outdoors and making the most of its spectacular beauty.
Diverse Country
New Zealand’s population is a melting pot of cultures, where 15% of Kiwis are indigenous Maori, 12% are Asian, and 7.5% are Pacific Islanders (Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade website)
Maori Culture
Maori culture is a core part of New Zealand’s identity. The Maori are the Tangata Whenua, the indigenous people of New Zealand. Today, 1 in 7 New Zealanders identify as Maori.
Official Languages
New Zealand has 3 offficial languages. English, Maori and New Zealand Sign Language.
Urban Population
51.2% of the population live in the major urban areas of Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Hamilton, Tauranga, Dunedin and Lower Hutt.
Most Freedom
According to the Fraser Institute Human Freedom Index 2019, New Zealanders have the most freedom in the world.
