The main intakes are Semester 1 (February) and Semester 2 (July), with some institutions offering summer schools starting in November.

Universities focus on academic research and degree-level programs, while Institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs) focus on vocational, hands-on programs directly tied to industry needs. 

A taught master’s is a master that is coursework-based and usually takes 1-1.5 years. A research master’s thesis is thesis-based focusing on research and can take 2 full years.

Your stay depends on your qualification level. If you complete a Bachelor’s degree, a master’s, or PhD , you will receive a 3 year work visa.

Larger cities like Auckland and Wellington have higher accommodation costs, while smaller university towns like Dunedin and Christchurch are more budget friendly.

The weather in the North Island and South Island can be a little different. North Island is relatively warmer and temperate year-round, while South Island is colder in winter with snow on mountains, perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

New Zealand sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, so it does have volcanic fields and active geothermal zones. However, major eruptions are incredibly rare. Instead of danger, this volcanic activity gives New Zealand world-famous natural hot springs and stunning volcanic lakes.

Only if your idea of fun is massive cities with mega shopping malls and clubs! New Zealand is the absolute paradise if you love an outdoor lifestyle, join friends for weekend roadtrips, go for a hike on the trails and cafe-jumping.