6 Reasons Why You Should Study in New Zealand
If you are considering studying abroad, New Zealand is your perfect choice! In 2023 alone, it has attracted 69,000 international students.
4 Reasons why New Zealand is Malaysian students’ preferred study destination:
- All eight universities are ranked in the global top 3%
- Fantastic student lifestyle – energetic, welcoming and full of opportunities to explore
- It is a small, safe country with easy access to modern, bustling cities and beautiful natural landscapes.
- Students develop sound academic knowledge, and hands-on experience equips them with practical career skills.
Six reasons why choosing New Zealand will be your best decision:
- World-Class Education System
- Affordable Quality Education
- Post-Study Work Opportunities
- Comprehensive Student Support Network
- Safe and Welcoming Environment
- Outstanding Quality of Life
1. World-Class Education System
All universities in New Zealand are among the world’s best in 2024. For example:
| University Name | Courses Offered |
| The University of Auckland | Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Technology, and Business Studies |
| Victoria University of Wellington | Law, Politics, or International Studies |
| University of Otago | Health Sciences, Humanities, Sciences, Business |
| University of Waikato | Business/Management, Computer Science, Design, Education, Engineering, Environment, Health, Law, Mathematics, Psychology, Science, Social Sciences, Arts, Maori & Indigenous Studies. |
| Massey University | Business, Creative arts, Health, Humanities & Social Sciences, Sciences |
| University of Canterbury | Arts, Business, Education, Engineering, Health, Law, Science. |
| Lincoln University | Agriculture, Horticulture and Viticulture, Business, English Language, Environment, Food, & Wine & Beer, Landscape Architecture, Property and Valuation, Sciences, Sport and Recreation, Tourism |
| Auckland University of Technology (AUT) | Architecture and built environment, Art and Design, Business, Communication studies, Education, Engineering, computer and mathematical sciences, Health Sciences, Hospitality, tourism and events, Language and Culture, Law, Science, Social sciences and public policy, sport and recreation |
Here are the benefits when you study in New Zealand:
- Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and other international accreditation bodies recognise New Zealand’s Education System.
- Small classes allow for more personalised attention from your lecturers.
- It is committed towards providing quality education through research-based teaching methods, modern facilities, and rigorous quality assurance standards.
- New Zealand universities prioritise hands-on experience with real-life projects, enabling an incredible student learning experience.
2. Affordable Quality Education
Compared to countries like the US, UK or Australia, studying in New Zealand is more affordable than you think. Below is the range for university and living costs that you will spend when studying in New Zealand:
- University: NZD 35,000 – 45,000 (MYR 95,000 – 125,000) yearly
- Living costs (Accommodation, food and transport): NZD 15,000 – 20,000 (MYR 40,000 – 60,000) yearly
It gets even better with a wide range of scholarships. There are a number of options to fund your studies, such as:
- New Zealand Government Scholarships.
- University-specific merit awards.
- Research grants for postgraduate studies.
Additionally, you can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week, offering you the perfect chance to earn extra pocket money while gaining work experience.
3. Post-Study Work Opportunities
Malaysian students love New Zealand because of its post-study work visa. Once you complete your undergraduate studies, you can work in New Zealand for up to three years!
The best part is you do not need a job lined up before applying for the work visa! Graduates land jobs in these growing fields, such as:
- IT
- Engineering
- Healthcare
With annual starting salaries of around NZD 45,000 – 90,000 (MYR 120,000 – 240,000)!
It also allows you to obtain international work experience and work towards making New Zealand your home if you wish to stay long-term.
4. Comprehensive Student Support Network
Feeling nervous about studying abroad? Don’t be!
New Zealand’s educational institutions prioritise comprehensive support services for Malaysian students as they abide by the Code of Pastoral Care for international students.
The different support services offered:
- Personalised support – assisting you in settling into your classes and finding the best coffee spots
- International student offices – providing academic support and helping with cultural integration
- Health and wellness services – ensuring your well-being physically and mentally throughout your studies
- Writing centres – helping you to improve your writing skills
You can make friends by joining one of the many student clubs or Malaysian student associations, making your transition to live in New Zealand less stressful and enjoyable.
5. Safe and Welcoming Environment
New Zealand consistently ranks in the Global Peace Index’s top 5.
The reasons why it is one of the world’s safest countries for Malaysian students are listed below:
- Multicultural society warmly welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, with a particularly strong Asian community presence that helps students feel at home.
- Major cities offer easy access to halal food, prayer facilities, and cultural events for various cultural and religious needs.
- The Kiwis (that’s what New Zealanders call themselves!) are famous for their warm welcome, and they love making international students feel like part of the family.
With a strong emphasis on cultural diversity and inclusion, New Zealand is a place where you can be yourself and thrive academically and personally.
6. Outstanding Quality of Life
New Zealand offers an enviable lifestyle that perfectly balances urban convenience with natural beauty. Here are a few reasons:
- Top 5 globally for clean air quality.
- Cities provide excellent public transportation with modern amenities and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Stay connected with family and friends back home with only a 5-hour difference from Malaysia!
- Endless outdoor activities and opportunities with New Zealand’s stunning landscape!
Universities in New Zealand emphasise students having a healthy study-life balance. Explore New Zealand and embrace extracurricular activities while enjoying its natural beauty!
Ready to Study in New Zealand?
Contact us now, and we’ll guide you through different universities, programmes that match your interests, and scholarships for which you’re eligible.
Your New Zealand adventure could be just around the corner!