Study Abroad New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide
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Known for its rich Māori culture, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and top-ranked universities, New Zealand study abroad is a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. From its unparalleled natural beauty to its reputation of academic excellence, you’re in for an incredible journey when you take your studies to New Zealand.
Let’s dive into our ultimate guide to a New Zealand study abroad trip!
Is New Zealand a Good Place to Study Abroad?
When you study abroad in New Zealand, you’re in for the experience of a lifetime. No, really! The country boasts top-tier universities, diverse academic programs, well-preserved natural beauty, and a welcoming, multi-cultural nation. Students who choose to live and learn in New Zealand will be met with robust support services, friendly locals, an inclusive society, and access to cutting-edge facilities, making it easy to adapt, study, explore, and thrive.
From snow-capped mountains to lush forests to picturesque lakes to diverse beaches, your time in New Zealand is sure to be an enriching, memorable adventure.
Fast Facts about New Zealand
- Population: 5.2 million
- Climate: New Zealand largely has a temperate climate, with warm subtropical temperatures in the far north, cool temperate temperatures in the far south, and severe alpine conditions in the mountains
- Airport: Auckland Airport (AKL)
- Language: New Zealand has three official languages – Māori, English, and New Zealand Sign Language; but Samoan, Mandarin, and Hindi are also widely spoken
- Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
- Local Attraction: Milford Sound, a landmark fiord, is among the country’s most famous attractions, known for its staggering coastal scenery, dramatic peaks, and dark blue water
Studying Abroad in Australia vs. New Zealand
If you’re determined to find a study abroad program in the Oceania region, you’re likely wondering which location is a better fit for you: Australia or New Zealand. Considering Australia vs. New Zealand study abroad is a big decision! For starters, both countries are world-renowned for their natural beauty, with sweeping vistas around every corner. Secondly, each country is home to top-ranked universities, making them both premier destinations for academically rigorous programs. Finally, both countries boast warm, welcoming, and inclusive cultures, making them ideal places to be YOU abroad.
Truthfully, you can’t go wrong either way. However, consider how different the experiences in each country will be. New Zealand is the right fit for students looking for a more intimate, nature-centric experience with smaller universities and out-of-this-world landscapes. In contrast, Australia features larger, more diverse academic institutions in large cities – like Sydney and Melbourne – that provide a more urban lifestyle.
At the end of the day, both Australia and New Zealand offer distinct experiences. You’ll be on your way to having a life-changing journey no matter where you decide to go!
Read More: Australia vs. New Zealand Study Abroad: Which is Better for You?
Best Place to Study Abroad in New Zealand
When you study abroad in New Zealand with CIEE, you’ll call Auckland home, one of the country’s major cities and a multi-cultural hub of food, music, art, and culture. As the largest city in New Zealand, this exciting place has so much to offer: Numerous museums and galleries to visit; theaters showcasing the traditional Māori culture and contemporary arts; iconic landmarks, like Sky Tower, that will thrill and entertain you; and so much more!
From 80+ outstandingly beautiful beaches to lush rainforest-covered ranges to a magnificent city skyline, you’ll quickly come to agree that Auckland is the best place to study abroad in New Zealand. Don’t believe us? Find out for yourself on one of our study abroad or global internship programs!
Read More: What are International Internships? Everything You Need to Know
Top 4 New Zealand Study Abroad Programs
Once you’ve set your sights on studying abroad in New Zealand, it’s time for the good stuff – choosing your dream program! We offer incredible New Zealand study abroad programs, including:
- Semester in Auckland
- Arts + Sciences (University of Auckland)
- Summer in Auckland
- Summer Global Internship
Semester in Auckland
Spend your semester taking CIEE classes and courses offered by the prestigious University of Auckland, CIEE's renowned partner institution, giving you access to top-notch programs across various subjects. While you immerse yourself in vibrant Auckland university life, you'll experience the unique blend of Kiwi charm and cosmopolitan flair that defines the city. All your courses will be complemented with activities and excursions organized by CIEE in and beyond the city to enhance your academic learning and provide intercultural understanding.
- Length: 19 weeks
- Credit: 12-18 semester hours/18-27 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.7 Overall GPA
- Featured Course: Space Dynamics and Missions
- Excursion Highlight: Step into the magical world of Middle Earth at Hobbiton, the iconic movie set from Lord of the Rings
Arts + Sciences (University of Auckland)
Pursue a world-class education at the University of Auckland, CIEE’s esteemed partner institution, where you’ll join a diverse community of students, learn from renowned faculty, and engage in cutting-edge research. With a strong focus on practical learning and industry connections, the university prepares you for success in your career. In your free time, enjoy the vibrant city center, discover the beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula, and visit the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- Length: 19 weeks
- Credit: 16 semester hours/24 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.7 Overall GPA
- Featured Course: Creative Arts and Industries
- Excursion Highlight: Embark on a rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Eden, one of Auckland’s iconic volcano cones
Summer in Auckland
Spend four weeks of your summer enrolling in one credit-bearing course, blending classroom instruction with enriching co-curricular excursions to Auckland's cultural sites and organizations. Outside the classroom, you’ll have every opportunity to immerse yourself in New Zealand's rich Māori culture, engage in exciting sports activities, and visit the region’s numerous parks, volcanic cones, and scenic beaches.
- Length: 4 weeks
- Credit: 3 per session semester hour/4.5 per session quarter hour
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Course: Sustainable Tourism
- Excursion Highlight: Take a ferry to Devonport, a charming seaside village with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and galleries
Summer Global Internship
Spend your summer gaining real-world work experience and immersing yourself in New Zealand’s innovative, creative, and balanced work culture. Explore internship opportunities tailored to your professional goals in the media, technology, business, tourism, and more.
- Length: 8 weeks
- Credit: 6 semester hours/9 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA
- Excursion Highlight: Learn about New Zealand's cultural and natural history from Auckland Museum, where you will observe Māori artifacts, Pacific Island exhibits, and interactive displays
How to Study Abroad in New Zealand
Sold on a New Zealand study abroad program with CIEE? Awesome! Make studying abroad in New Zealand a reality by taking the following five simple steps!
- Step 1: Select a New Zealand study abroad program that aligns with your personal, academic, and professional goals
- Step 2: Explore CIEE funding options, like scholarships, grants, and special discounts, and be sure to complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of the CIEE application to see what you might qualify for
- Step 3: Start and complete your CIEE application
- Step 4: Connect with your school’s study abroad office and see if they have any internal application requirements
- Step 5: Get packing and GO
Read More: How to Study Abroad: 5 Steps to Apply with CIEE
New Zealand is Calling
Are you ready for the journey of a lifetime? Your New Zealand study abroad adventure awaits!
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