Are you planning to study in New Zealand? Then we must say that you made a good choice.
This is because it’s a fantastic place to get your education, with great schools and a mix of cultures in the classroom.
Anyway, before you pack your bags, though, you need to know about the age requirements for student visas. Since these can affect whether you can get one and what rules you’ll need to follow.
Remember that New Zealand welcomes students of all ages, from kids to adults who are going back to school. However, there are different rules depending on how old you are.
Therefore, let’s find out what are the factors we must know when it comes to age concerns when applying for a New Zealand student visa.
Understanding New Zealand Student Visa Types
Before getting into age concerns, let’s get an idea of the student visas that you have when it comes to New Zealand.
In this case, you can find several types of student visas to fit different situations.
Whereas most international students get the Fee Paying Student Visa, where you pay the full cost of your courses.
On the other hand, if you’re part of a student exchange program, you’ll need the Exchange Student Visa.
Moving on, let’s say that you are planning to take multiple courses at different schools.
Then, the Pathway Student Visa is the type that you should look for.
Note: There’s also a special visa for students whose home governments are paying for their education.
Age Requirements for Different Educational Levels
Kids between 5 and 18 years old can get into primary and secondary schools in New Zealand.
For university studies, you generally need to be at least 17 years old, but some schools might have their own age requirements.
On the other hand, if you’re interested in postgraduate studies, there’s no upper age limit. This means that you just need to meet the academic requirements to be eligible.
Note: New Zealand is a great choice for older students who want to continue their education.
Special Considerations for Primary Students
Students under 18 need extra care and support.
This means that parents need to find someone in New Zealand to be their child’s legal guardian, and the school needs to approve where the student will live.
In this case, you can look for options like allowing your child to stay with a designated caregiver, in a school dormitory, or with a host family.
Note: Schools have legal responsibilities to take care of international students under the Education Code of Practice.
Financial Requirements across Age Groups
No matter how old you are, you’ll need to show that you can pay for your studies. Or else, your guardian should.
This includes of having NZD 15,000 per year for living costs, plus enough to cover your tuition fees.
Note: Everyone also needs to have a proper insurance coverage!
Supporting Documentation by Age Category
The documents checklist that you need actually depends on your age.
Which means, everyone needs their academic records and proof that they can speak English in a good manner.
Anyway, always remember that the requirements may depend on where you’re from and what you’re studying in New Zealand.
Moreover, you’ll need to prove that you have enough money to take care of yourself and a good health check along with character requirements.
Common Age-Related Challenges and Solutions
Let’s say that you got a gap year.
In this case, you might face some tricky decisions about which courses to take and when to apply for your visa.
Moreover, work rules are different depending on your age and what you’re studying, with stricter rules if you’re under 18.
Plus, everyone gets healthcare through their insurance, but coverage needs might be different based on your age.
Speaking of which, your insurance needs to meet New Zealand Immigration’s requirements to support you through this journey as well.
New Zealand makes it possible for people of all ages to study there, with special rules to make sure that everyone gets the support they need.
Therefore, make sure that you look carefully at the requirements for your age group and the course which you want to take.
Anyway, if you need help, you can always contact Immigration New Zealand or talk to an immigration adviser.
Plus, the international student office at your school can also help you through the whole process, if you have any doubts.
So, make sure to follow our points and be always mindful of the New Zealand’s law to stay on the safe side.
Contact TEVS a New Zealand student visa consultants in Sri Lanka for more details.