Its eight universities rank in the top 2% globally as per QS World University Ranking 2023, and international students can thrive under the guidance of qualified lecturers who are both approachable and capable.
In New Zealand, students are also exposed to diverse cultures – including its indigenous Māori people, who exemplify positivity with their can-do attitude.
This provides a great opportunity for Malaysian students to gain an international perspective encouraging critical and creative thinking.
New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world – ranking second on the Global Peace Index 2022 for its low crime rates and lack of dangerous wildlife.
The Māori people, and New Zealanders in general, are remarkably warm and friendly, so international students feel welcome while away from home.
According to a survey conducted by Education New Zealand (ENZ) in 2021, 85% of international students rated their experience of New Zealand positively, and 81% said they would recommend the country as a study destination.
Strong support for international students
Dedicated to pushing its world-class tertiary education towards global recognition, ENZ has built a strong support system for international students.
Ben Burrows, ENZ’s Regional Director for Asia, explained how ENZ’s close relationship with government agencies creates an environment where international students can flourish.
“We have developed a unique approach to education that moves beyond personal academic achievement, and focuses on longer-term outcomes such as developing life skills and cultural competence to prepare our students to become global citizens,” he said.
Abiding by the New Zealand Pastoral Care of International Students Code of Practice, educational institutions in New Zealand adopt a mandated well-being strategy which ensures that all international students are properly cared for.
Additionally, relevant information on accommodation, insurance and visa applications is readily available at all universities.
Financial support in the form of scholarships is also available – these include the 1,100 Manaaki New Zealand scholarships that are offered to foreign students from 112 eligible countries (including Malaysia) and the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia and Latin America.
Excellent career opportunities
For Malaysian students wanting to gain international work experience, New Zealand offers job opportunities both during and after studies.
Most full-time tertiary students in New Zealand can work part time for up to 20 hours per week during term time, while some longer-term students can work full-time during the holidays. This allows students to apply what they’ve learnt in a work environment.
Additionally, graduates of Bachelor, Masters and Doctoral degrees, as well as Post Graduate Diplomas, are eligible for a post-study work visa to work for any employer. The length of this visa depends on the time spent studying in New Zealand.
Students completing courses below degree-level are eligible for a post-study work visa specific to that occupation if their field of study is on the list of eligible qualifications.
Interested in pursuing further studies in New Zealand? Learn more about Education New Zealand here.