Vocational courses in New Zealand are a great alternative if you’re not considering studying at university yet. Compared to university-level courses, these programmes are shorter and more affordable.
Moreover, vocational studies in New Zealand are focused on practical skills rather than on theoretical skills, ensuring effective learning absorption. Some even include internships where you gain valuable professional experience.
Another perk is that these courses guarantee quick entry into the job market! Employers help design their programme, ensuring you acquire relevant skills in demand by today’s companies.
But those aren’t all the benefits of studying vocational courses in New Zealand; we’ll tell you more in this article. Additionally, we’ll explain the types of courses available and the requirements you need to meet to enroll.
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Types of Vocational Courses in New Zealand
Firstly, you should know there are 2 types of vocational courses in New Zealand.
On the one hand, there are certificates. These vocational study programs are designed to equip you with basic to advanced knowledge before entering an industry of interest. On average, they last from a few weeks to 1 year.
On the other hand, there are diplomas, where you learn more specialized concepts and techniques. Consequently, their duration is longer (1 to 2 years), and tuition fees might be slightly higher compared to certificates.
Regarding areas of study, you have plenty of options to choose from in both cases! Schools offer courses in cooking, construction, design, hospitality, business, tourism… You just need to find one that suits your interests.
Classification of Vocational Courses in New Zealand
Another aspect of these courses is their classification into various levels.
The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) categorizes programmes based on their difficulty and the knowledge and skills you acquire through them. Let’s explain it better, pay attention!
Level 1 Certificates
Level 1 certificates are the simplest. Through these courses, you gain basic knowledge and skills to handle some tasks related to your job and propose solutions to non-complex problems.
Level 2 Certificates
With a level 2 certificate, you acquire skills that remain basic. The difference is that you are better equipped to solve somewhat more complex problems using your knowledge and following standardized processes.
Level 3 Certificates
When you complete a level 3 certificate, you learn a wider variety of concepts and technical skills to solve different tasks and problems. Additionally, you are adequately prepared to work without constant supervision.
Level 4 Certificates
Level 4 certificates are more advanced. In these courses, you study specialized concepts related to your profession and gain practical knowledge to handle tasks with a higher level of complexity.
Level 5 Certificates and Diplomas
You can enroll in level 5 vocational programmes if you want to work in specialized areas. With these courses, you have the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to handle tasks using various procedures and methodologies.
Level 6 Certificates and Diplomas
Level 6 courses are designed to develop your analytical skills, helping you effectively solve problems by applying advanced knowledge. You also learn to supervise and lead work teams.
Other Advantages of Studying Vocational Courses in New Zealand
You already know some benefits of studying vocational courses in New Zealand, but there’s more! In the following sections, we’ll tell you other reasons why students from all over the world choose this country when they migrate.
Making Equivalencies for University Entry
One advantage of studying for certificates in New Zealand is that, in certain cases, you can make equivalencies if you decide to continue your professional studies at a university. This way, you’ll progress faster in your career and spend less money.
Studying and Working
As a student, you can combine your studies with work throughout your stay!
Depending on the job you get, you could earn a minimum wage of 22.70 NZD* per hour. But there are places where they pay higher salaries.
However, it’s important not to neglect your studies! If your academic performance is not optimal, immigration authorities could cancel your visa. That’s why we recommend you find student jobs with flexible schedules.
*This figure is indicative and subject to change.
Traveling within New Zealand
While your visa is valid, you can travel from one end of the country to the other! New Zealand cities are well-connected, so it’s easy to visit iconic attractions by simply hopping on a bus, plane, or train.
Moreover, a trip around New Zealand is the perfect excuse to engage in extreme sports: diving, skiing, cycling, mountaineering, skydiving, bungee jumping, rafting, surfing… There are endless activities to do in breathtaking locations!
Applying for a Work Permit after Finishing Studies
When your visa is about to expire, renew it or apply for a work permit! Some vocational courses in New Zealand make you eligible for a Post Study Work Visa. This document is valid for up to 3 years and allows you to work without hourly restrictions.
Requirements for Immigrating to New Zealand for Studies
Immigration is one of New Zealand’s public policies, so travelling for studies is not an impossible mission. In fact, it’s easier than doing it for work! Below, we explain the requirements you must meet.
1. Certify Your Studies and Translate Necessary Documents
The school may require you to certify your secondary (high school) studies to enroll in your course. Before registering, consult with admission authorities about the certification process you should follow if it’s a requirement.
Also, it’s important to translate documents written in Spanish into English, as you must submit copies in English when applying for your study visa. Make sure to do it with a certified professional.
2. Demonstrate Your English Proficiency
If you want to take these courses in New Zealand, you need an intermediate or advanced level of English. That’s why, before enrolling, you must obtain a certificate stating that you have the minimum skills required by the school.
Many vocational schools in New Zealand accept these official exams:
- Cambridge English exams.
- International English Testing System (IELTS).
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic).
- Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT).
3. Apply for the Student Visa
Speaking of visas, the permit you need for taking courses in New Zealand is the Fee Paying Student visa. This document is valid until you finish your course and allows you to work 20 hours per week throughout your stay!
The visa application is done online, but first, you must enroll in a school, as immigration authorities require an admission letter. Once you have it, create a profile on RealMe, upload the visa requirements, and start the process.
If everything is in order, your study visa application could be approved within 45 days.
If you need help with the paperwork, we got you covered! As part of our service, the visa processing is on us.
4. Obtain the Inland Revenue (IRD) for Student Work
The Inland Revenue (IRD) is a document that identifies you as a taxpayer since, even as a student, you must pay taxes if you work. The application is free (don’t let them charge you!) and you only need to meet very simple requirements.
Another thing you should know is that you need the Inland Revenue (IRD) for these procedures:
- Buying or selling properties.
- Requesting student loans.
- Applying for financial support in case of having children.
- Requesting tax refunds.
Upgrade Your Resume! Travel to New Zealand with GrowPro and Take Vocational Courses
In conclusion, taking courses in New Zealand is fun and helps you grow immensely, so if your dream is to live this adventure, let us make it happen!
And why choose GrowPro?
- We want to make your life easier, so we help you enroll in the perfect school for you and we take care of your study visa application.
- When you arrive in New Zealand, we welcome you with an orientation session and organize events for you: parties, excursions, surf camps, skiing trips, and workshops.
- The first step is very simple: find an experience in New Zealand that interests you. Then, request more information, and we’ll advise you for free.
Don’t wait any longer. Choose your experience and join the GrowPro community. Have the time of your life while taking vocational courses in New Zealand. We hope to see you soon on this side of the world!
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