Yes, the US, the UK, Canada, and Germany remain the leading destinations for Indian students who want to pursue higher education abroad. However, in that mix, New Zealand has fast emerged as the most prominent name, attracting thousands of Indian students every year. In fact, in 2019, this island nation saw an increase of 63 percent in first-time student visas from India.
There are many reasons why New Zealand now stands as among the top study-abroad destinations for Indian students.
New Zealand’s education system is based on the British system which is known as one of the best in the world. International students can choose from a wide range of subjects to study, most of which are taught by renowned professors and researchers.
The country offers research-led education, which means that all courses are designed to include practical experience and research opportunities. There are many opportunities for you to undertake research while studying in New Zealand.
Moreover, given their relatively small sizes, New Zealand universities are renowned for the close relationships built between lecturers and students. This fosters an environment in which students feel comfortable enough to ask questions and, as a result, engage more with the course material being taught.
While the universities in New Zealand offer a wide range of programs and cater to every type of student with diverse interests and aspirations, there are select programs that are particularly more popular among international students. Here are some of them:
There are certain skills that are in significant shortage in New Zealand. So, when it comes to giving visas and PRs, the government gives more preference and leeway to students/professionals who have these skills that are in short supply.
A benefit for international students of choosing any of these popular programs is that they will acquire skills and formal qualifications that are more in demand. This increases their chances of getting an NZ Permanent Resident Visa.
So, this is another aspect you should keep in mind when choosing a program to pursue in New Zealand; especially if you’re planning to stay back and work here.
New Zealand has a low level of criminal activity, making it a safe place to live. It is also considered one of the most peaceful nations in the world.
The country has a low population density (around 16 people per square kilometer), so there are very few cars on its roads. In most towns and cities, there is no need to drive, since everything is within walking distance!
Many parts of New Zealand are quite isolated and far from big cities. The lifestyle here is unhurried and peaceful; you can enjoy being outdoors and connecting with nature.
New Zealand offers its citizens a high standard of living. The country has a quality healthcare system, good food, and quality education. The country’s economy is one of the most developed in the world.
It enjoys a temperate climate with little extremes in temperature throughout the year. Though there are four distinct seasons in New Zealand, most people find summer and autumn to be quite warm and pleasant.
New Zealand is also known for its clean environment and green image, which attracts students from around the globe.
The cost of living and studying abroad in New Zealand is significantly lower than many other popular study destinations like Australia, the USA, the UK, and Canada.
The transportation and healthcare in the country are great. New Zealanders are known for their friendliness and hospitality, which creates an excellent social atmosphere for students who want to interact with other cultures besides their own.
If you’re planning to study abroad, New Zealand won’t disappoint you. It promises to check all the right boxes for you, ensuring you receive not just superior quality education but also enjoy a great living standard.
Connect with an overseas education consultant and start planning the path ahead. Seek their help in finding the best university and applying there. A good overseas education consultant can help you end-to-end every step of the way.