USA New Zealand

WHERE DO I STUDY? THE USA OR NEW ZEALAND?

New Zealand blends innovation, creativity, and a new perspective in making the citizens and leaders well equipped for the 21st century. The Education system, in New Zealand, is student-centered. Its main focus is on helping students in innovation, working with others, problem-solving, and creativity. A variety of pathways are available for students to improve their potential. New Zealand has only eight universities but its degrees are recognized internationally. On the other side, the US has stunning research facilities and career opportunities and is a country that amplifies intellectualism. Now, we will see the difference in studying in these two countries.

 

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• Period of Terms:

In New Zealand, the academic year begins in February and there are only two semesters conducted per year. Universities conduct one semester from February to June and the other semester from July to November. Students studying their post-graduate can begin their degrees in either semester. Few professional courses only start in February whereas master courses can be done in either semester, i.e., July or February. In the US, the first semester starts in September and ends in December and the second semester starts in January and ends in April. Universities also have trimester and quarter based structure, where the holidays are slightly different from the other normal semester universities.

• Duration of Programs:

Bachelor’s degree, in New Zealand, can be acquired by studying a three-year undergraduate course or four-year course. Students who want to study postgraduate programs can avail of multiple opportunities that are available. In addition to engineering degrees, colleges also offer diplomas. The length of the courses is decided by how the students structure their degree. In the US, students can pursue undergraduate studies for four years and get their UG degree. In the US, students, after completing UG, can directly apply for Ph.D. studies without having master's degrees. PG programs take 2 years to complete.

• University Structure and Organization:

New Zealand universities encourage students to think as individuals and let them find their solution. By doing this way, many students find their strengths and ideas while pursuing their studies in the country. Students select a course and they study regularly. Every time a test or exam is conducted, the grades are provided to the students. New Zealand’s marking system is different from Americans and Indians. In the US, students apply to the main university in the first year of studies and then they attend classes on various subjects. At the end of the first year, they can choose a major to study. Arts and Science groups are also available. The US focuses mainly on gaining knowledge and learning out of the major subjects that students choose.

• Grading System and Assignments:

The grading system in New Zealand works by awarding grades namely A, A+, A-, B, B+, B-, C, C+, C- to the students. The grades range from A to F. A+, A, A- are the top grades, and the lowest grade is F. Scoring D and above is considered as fail. C equals to 50% and is the lowest grade. D, E, F are the failing grades. In the US, the instructor will put a grade (starts from A to F, excluding E) in the student's answer sheet after every test and assignment. A is the highest grade and F is the lowest grade. In the US, exams and assignments decide the students' grades.

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• Finding Accommodation:

New Zealand's popular accommodation options are halls of residence (hostels), homestay (private board), flatting and independent accommodation. Generally, students find on-campus living much easier compared to other accommodations because they get access to all kinds of services easily. Students study short term courses generally avail homestay accommodation. In the US, on-campus and off-campus options are available. After the first year, students generally like to rent outside. Students find it easier to access the cafeteria and other eating places when they have on-campus accommodation. Off-campus options available to students are leasing an apartment, homestays, and private renting.

• Cost of Education:

In New Zealand, the tuition fees for international undergraduate students cost around NZ $22,000 - 32,000 (USD 15,000- 22,000). Veterinary and medical studies cost the highest in the above-mentioned fees range. The government usually subsidizes the fees for domestic students, which makes them pay around NZ $10,000 - 25,000 per year. In the US, it costs around USD 3,500 per year in public universities for a 2-year program and costs USD 31,000 per year in private universities for a 4-year program. Elite universities charge up to USD 50,000 per year for a 4-year course. Loans and scholarships are also available in the US.

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