How Much Study Gap is Accepted for New Zealand?
Is there a fixed study gap limit for New Zealand? A study gap of less than six months requires no proof, while longer gaps must be justified with valid documents such as work experience letters or medical certificates. There are several ways to effectively explain and justify your study gap.
New Zealand is a popular study destination for Indian students. Many websites claim that 'New Zealand universities allow a study gap of 2 to 10 years.' But is this true? What are the actual gap policies according to Immigration New Zealand? In reality, there is no fixed duration for an acceptable study gap in New Zealand. This article will help you to understand the easy study gap rules of New Zealand.
- Study Gap Policy of New Zealand
- Importance of Justifying Study Gap with Valid Reasons
- Acceptable Gap in NZ
Study Gap Policy of New Zealand
Immigration authority assesses each application individually. Your study gap will be accepted if you will give valid explanation with supporting documents. Apart from INZ’s assessment, some universities in New Zealand may have their own rules related to accepting study gaps for admission. To get accurate information, check official website of university.
Remember, you do not need to provide any proof for a study gap of less than 6 months. However, if your study gap exceeds this period, make sure you have a valid explanation along with proof.
Importance of Justifying Study Gap with Valid Reasons
INZ will assess your application on an individual level and may ask you about your study gaps. The objective of this assessment is to understand your intention behind pursuing higher studies in New Zealand.
You need to provide a valid reason for your study gap. It includes work experience or health issues. Keep in mind that no reason will be considered valid unless you provide proper supporting documents.
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Acceptable Gap in NZ
Below, we have mentioned the commonly accepted study gap duration for different education levels:
| Level of Education |
Acceptable Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Diploma Courses |
Up to 2–3 years (with justification) |
| UG Courses |
Up to 3 to 5 Years (Varies by universities) |
| PG Courses |
5+ years (Only, if supported by work experience) |
The cost of living does not includes only the tuition fee but also other expenses like textbooks, NON-tuition fee, accommodation cost and other personal expenses. The moment a student lands in New Zealand, they need to pay $35 international visitor and tourism conservation levy. The living cost can vary as per the accommodation option, location and personal spending habits.
In addition to your tuition and insurance fees, you will need between $20,000 and $25,000 per year ($380–480 per week) for accommodation/rent, food expenses, transportation costs, phone bills, internet usage and entertainment.
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The University of Auckland offers the best UG and PG programs for international students at an affordable tuition fees. Auckland Unversity Master in Project Management is slightly better than the Master in Management because of its tuition fees for first year. Mentioned below is the tuition fees for first-year for international students: