New Zealand has become an increasingly popular study abroad destination for international students in recent years, combining world-class education, a high quality of life, and the natural beauty of New Zealand. In particular, more and more students from Bangladesh are choosing to study in New Zealand each year.
Studying in New Zealand offers Bangladeshi students the chance to gain an international degree, explore a new culture, improve career prospects, and benefit from a five-star student experience. New Zealand institutions are known for academic excellence, extensive research, and real-world learning opportunities.
Whether you are researching your options or ready to apply, this guide will prepare you to successfully study in New Zealand from Bangladesh. Let’s get started!
Applying to Universities in New Zealand from Bangladesh
The first step to studying in New Zealand is researching and applying to universities. Here is what you need to know about finding and applying to universities in New Zealand from Bangladesh:
- Use university ranking sites like QS and Times Higher Education to find top universities in your subject area. Look for schools with high rankings for research, graduate employability, and international student support.
- Browse university websites for information on programs, specializations, application requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, and campus life.
- Consider location. New Zealand has 8 universities located in different cities like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. Pick one that appeals to your interests.
- Check application timelines and deadlines which are usually between June to December for the next year’s intake. Apply early as popular courses fill up.
- Common requirements are English test scores (IELTS or TOEFL), academic transcripts, CV, letters of recommendation, personal statement.
- Have all documents certified before uploading them. Get translations for any documents not in English.
- Apply directly through university websites. Or use education agents who can guide you through the process.
- Make sure your personal statement relates your background, interests, and goals to the program you are applying for.
- Apply for multiple universities to increase your chances of admission. There is no separate application fee.
Following these tips will help you submit a strong application to universities in New Zealand. Reach out to admission offices if you need help with the process.
New Zealand Student Visa Requirements for Bangladeshi Students
Once you receive an offer of place from a university, the next step is to apply for your New Zealand student visa. Here are the key requirements and process for Bangladeshi students:
- You must obtain a student visa before travelling to New Zealand, not a visitor visa. Apply via the New Zealand Immigration website.
- Required documents are offer of place, evidence of funds for tuition and living costs, medical certificates, passport, previous visas, and other supplementary forms.
- Complete a medical check and chest X-ray at an approved clinic before applying.
- Proof of sufficient funds – at least NZ$15,000 per year for living costs, plus tuition fees for the first year.
- Students can work part-time up to 20 hours during the week and full-time during holidays.
- The student visa is usually issued for the duration of the academic program, plus an extra year for post-study work rights.
- Visa conditions generally require maintaining full-time enrollment, attending classes, making progress in studies, and having valid insurance.
- Visa processing time is around 1 month so apply well in advance of course start dates. Use a visa agent if needing help.
Overall, Bangladeshi students will need to prepare documents carefully and follow requirements to obtain a New Zealand student visa. Allow plenty of time for processing and check conditions.
Cost of Studying in New Zealand from Bangladesh
When planning to study abroad in New Zealand, it’s important to research and budget for the costs involved. Here is an overview of average tuition fees and living expenses:
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate degrees range from NZ$25,000 to NZ$35,000 per year. Popular choices like business, IT and engineering are at the higher end.
- Postgraduate tuition runs from NZ$26,000 to NZ$42,000 annually depending on degree length. Taught master’s are 1-2 years.
- Doctoral degrees cost NZ$6,000 to NZ$9,000 per year for 3-4 years. International PhD students often get fee waivers and stipends.
- Few universities offer medical degrees to international students, costing NZ$70,000+ per year.
- Some degrees have additional costs like materials, field trips or equipment. Check with each university.
Living Expenses
- Accommodation costs NZ$15,000 to NZ$25,000 per year. University dorms and shared flats are cheaper options.
- Budget NZ$40 to NZ$60 per week for groceries and NZ$70+ for eating out.
- Transportation like buses, trains and petrol will be NZ$50 to NZ$100 per week.
- Other costs like mobile phone, leisure travel, clothes and entertainment will run around NZ$150 per week.
- Don’t forget health insurance which is compulsory. This ranges from NZ$500 to NZ$1,000 for 12 months.
Overall, international students in New Zealand should budget NZ$45,000 to NZ$55,000 per year for living costs, on top of tuition fees.
Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students in New Zealand
Scholarships are a great way to fund your studies and reduce the overall cost of studying in New Zealand. Here are some of the main options for Bangladeshi student scholarships:
- New Zealand ASEAN Scholars Awards – Covers tuition fees and other costs for undergrad or postgrad study. Must have NZ university offer of place to apply.
- Commonwealth Scholarship – For postgraduate study, offered based on merit. Covers airfare, tuition, stipend for living costs.
- American Alumni Association Scholarship – Merit-based scholarship for undergrad and postgrad study with partial tuition coverage.
- New Zealand Scholarships for International Doctoral Research – Covers tuition fees, living costs and airfare for PhD students.
- Universities New Zealand Scholarships – 150 scholarships across fields for international students worth up to NZ$10,000.
- University-funded scholarships – Check individual universities as many offer international merit scholarships, usually NZ$5,000 to NZ$10,000.
- Bangladesh government scholarships – The government may fund scholarships for certain fields like engineering, medicine and IT.
I recommend looking at both country specific awards for Bangladeshi students as well as general international student scholarships in New Zealand. Apply early and contact universities.
Top Universities in New Zealand for Bangladeshi Students
With over 8 universities to choose from, here are some of the top recommendations for Bangladeshi students based on specific subjects:
Engineering
- University of Auckland – Highly ranked for civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. Strong research reputation.
- University of Canterbury – Known for engineering programs in mechanical, civil, forestry, and software engineering.
Computer Science & IT
- University of Auckland – Top ranked for computer science research and innovation. State-of-the-art IT facilities.
- Victoria University of Wellington – Strong computer science, artificial intelligence, and game development programs.
Business & Management
- University of Auckland – Leading business school focused on analytics, innovation, and technology.
- University of Otago – Great for finance, marketing, and tourism management programs.
Medicine & Health Sciences
- University of Auckland – Top medical school in NZ offering clinical placements across Auckland.
- University of Otago – New Zealand’s highest ranked medical school with a broad health sciences focus.
Conclusion
Studying in New Zealand as a Bangladeshi student provides an outstanding opportunity to gain a world-class education and enjoy an unmatched lifestyle. New Zealand offers academic excellence, career-focused programs, research opportunities and strong support for international students.
By following the steps in this guide, you can successfully navigate the application process, obtain a student visa, win scholarships, enroll in a top university, and adjust to living in New Zealand.
With its cutting-edge universities, stunning natural landscape, and welcoming environment, New Zealand is waiting to launch your global career and personal growth.
Start researching universities and programs to find your perfect fit. Check application requirements and deadlines. Prepare your documents and visa application. And get ready for an incredible study abroad experience in New Zealand! If you are looking for some expert official agency help contact us.
FAQs
Q: What are the entry requirements for undergraduate study?
A: Completion of Higher Secondary School Certificate or A-Levels with good grades. IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL equivalent.
Q: Can I work part-time during my studies?
A: Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and full-time during holidays on a student visa.
Q: How much funds do I need to show for the student visa?
A: At least NZ$15,000 per year for living costs, plus first year’s tuition fees.
Q: What is the cost of living in New Zealand as a student?
A: Budget around NZ$15,000 to NZ$25,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport and other living expenses.
Q: What scholarships are available for Bangladeshi students?
A: New Zealand ASEAN Scholars Awards, university-funded scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarship, and Bangladesh government scholarships.
Q: Can I stay and work in New Zealand after graduating?
A: Yes, you get a 1 year open work visa after graduating from a 3+ year undergraduate or postgrad degree.
Q: How long does it take to get a student visa approved?
A: Allow at least 1 month for student visa processing so apply well in advance of course start dates.
Q: What health insurance do I need as an international student?
A: You must purchase approved New Zealand student health insurance, which costs NZ$500 to NZ$1,000 for 12 months of coverage.
