New Zealand Enhances Post-Study Work Visa for PG Diploma Students
To bolster its appeal among international students, New Zealand has announced significant updates to its Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) criteria. Effective November 2024, these changes particularly benefit those pursuing postgraduate diplomas, allowing greater flexibility and opportunities for work experience in New Zealand.
Under the new regulations, international students who complete a 30-week postgraduate diploma and then transition directly into a Master's degree can now apply for a PSWV based on their diploma studies. This adjustment is a game-changer, as it enables students to retain their visa eligibility even if their Master's program does not meet the previous requirement of a minimum duration.
Vijeta Kanwar, Director of Operations at New Zealand Gateway, highlighted the importance of this policy shift, stating that it aims to attract high-quality students and skilled professionals to fill in-demand roles across various sectors. The change recognizes the valuable skills and knowledge gained through postgraduate diplomas, acknowledging them as a standalone qualification that merits a clear pathway to work experience in New Zealand.
The optimism is palpable among universities, especially since nearly half of all international students in New Zealand pursue postgraduate qualifications. Riddhi Khurana, a country advisor for South Asia supporting the University of Otago, expressed excitement about welcoming these students and their potential contributions to the academic community.
As New Zealand positions itself as a favourable destination for international education, these changes are expected to significantly increase interest from students, particularly those from India and South Asia. Despite the challenges posed by rising visa refusal rates from some countries, the positive feedback from current international students—nearly nine out of ten rate New Zealand as an excellent study destination—underscores the country's growing attractiveness in the global education landscape.
With recent policy updates, New Zealand is strengthening its educational system and creating a welcoming environment for international students to thrive academically and professionally.
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Source: https://thepienews.com/nz-announces-changes-to-psw-visa-for-pg-dipolma-students/
