Process to obtain New Zealand's Student Visa for international students
Immigration and Visa Information
New Zealand has many agreements with other countries, which allow a person to come to New Zealand for 90 days without a visa. During that time, you can study or be a tourist. Please consult your nearest New Zealand Embassy or High Commission for information on visa requirements. The school or institution you choose can also help you with visa information. However, the standard requirements are:
Complete the 'Application for Student Visa' Form :
These are available at the New Zealand Embassy or High Commission and your local travel/education agencies. With the 'Application for Student Visa' you will need to include:
A recent passport-size photograph.
Payment of a non-refundable visa application fee :
An 'Offer of Place' from a New Zealand education school or institution which states that you have been accepted by the school, the name of the course, the minimum time to complete the course, whether a course fee is required to be paid or the student is exempt from the fee (e.g. scholarship students). The New Zealand institution, which has confirmed your enrolment, will send this 'Offer of Place' to you. Evidence of payment of course tuition fee or evidence of exemption from fee.
Note: Students are no longer required to produce evidence of payment of course fees before their applications are approved in principle.
A guarantee of accommodation :
A written assurance from a New Zealand education institution or other persons that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand. Most New Zealand institutions will assist you with accommodation.
Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and return travel back to your home country. You will need to provide medical clearance and character references ONLY for courses, which are longer than 24 months. Contact the New Zealand Embassy or High Commission for further information on this.
Students will only be issued with a student visa if they have enrolled in an approved course at an institution or establishment, which is accredited to offer it. If your application for a student visa is approved you will need a passport which will be valid for 3 months beyond your initial date of departure from New Zealand.
Contact
For matters pertaining to student visas and immigration, students should write to: enquiry@nzis.dol.govt.nz
FINANCIAL AIDS
Scholarships and Financial aid available for International Students in New Zealand
So far financial aids are not available in New Zealand. All courses for overseas students are on a full fee paying basis. Department of Education does not offer any scholarship to foreign students. Nor are there any fellowships, research associate ship etc for higher studies in New Zealand for your support.
However, the overseas students are permitted to work part-time for 15 hours per week providing they are doing a full-time undergraduate course of 2 years or more; or a postgraduate course of 12 months or more.
LIVING COST IN NEW ZEALAND
Living Cost for International Students in New Zealand
As far as cost of living is concerned it is advised that students budget around NZ$10,000 per annum. Tuition fees can range from NZ$ 11,000 to NZ$ 18,000 per annum depending on course/ program of study. Details of costs can be obtained from the New Zealand High Commission, any of the approved Education Advisors or direct from the NZ institution.
Accommodation
New Zealand takes particular care of students' welfare. NZ institutions assist students in finding accommodation whilst studying in New Zealand. Various types of accommodation are available.
Halls of residence, Student Hostels, dormitories - these are usually located on campus with single or double (shared) rooms. Costs range from NZ$ 500 - 600 per month including food.
Home Stay
Students will live with a New Zealand family with their own room. As a family member, the student has every opportunity to experience the New Zealand way of life. Cost for this (including food) also ranges between NZ$ 500-600.
Apartments/Flats - this is a popular option with Indian students. Most institutions help students find a flat. Students choose their own flat mates. Costs range from NZ$ 450 - 525 per month. This includes food + other expenses.
