FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. When are our Semester/Term start dates?
A. Semester One runs from April until July, Semester Two is from August until December and Summer Term (optional) is from January until March.

Q. Can I study through distance learning?
A. As our courses focus on quality contact time with our academic staff, we have made class attendance a priority. This means that distance learning is not an option for our courses.

Q. Can I study overseas?
A. IPU New Zealand is part of a global network of education providers, and with that we have several options if you would like to the opportunity to study in Japan during your course.

Q. What majors are there in the Bachelor of Contemporary
International Studies?
A. International Business, International Relations, Japanese Studies, and TESOL & Language Studies

Q. What are the classes like?
A. Our class structure is one of our best features for students who love learning. Undergraduate class sizes are capped at around 20 students, giving our lecturers enough contact time to cater each class to you, the student. Each class is mixed with students from various backgrounds and cultures. This means that every class is unique and discussions between students and lectures are welcomed.

Q. How easy is it to meet the lecturers?
A. Our lecturers are always available to help you inside and outside of class. As our lecturers have a close connection with their students, they are even better suited to help you if you have questions.

Q. How long can I stay in the Halls of Residence?
A. At IPU New Zealand, students can live in the Halls of Residence for as long as they like. Staying on campus is a great way for students to make friends and use their languages outside of classes.

Q. Can I get funding from Studylink?
A. Yes, IPU New Zealand students can get funding through student loans or allowances for their course and for accommodation.

Q. Can I use my degree overseas?
A. Of course, IPU New Zealand is fully accredited with NZQA.

Q. Are the Halls of Residence catered?
A. Yes, students living in our Halls of Residence will have three meals provided each day as part of their weekly accommodation costs. On top of this, each Halls of Residence is fitted with facilities for students to cook their own food if they choose.

Q. How do I apply?
A. You can apply online on our website or email recruitment@ipu.ac.nz

Q. Are there scholarships available? 
A. You can apply for our SEG Scholarship which ranges from NZ$3,000, NZ$5,000 to NZ$7,000 per year.

Q. Do I need an English language qualification to enrol at
IPU New Zealand?
A. Yes, the English level you need depends on which programme you would like to apply for. You will need to fulfil the entry requirement before enrolling with us.

Q. How many majors do you provide?
A. Inside the Bachelors programme we offer a major in International Business, International Relations, Japanese Studies, and TESOL & Language Studies.

Q. What type of accommodation do you provide?
A. You can choose to stay in our Halls of Residence on our beautiful campus or with a host family. If you are over 22 years-of-age, or have met the conditions to move off campus, you can stay in a flat or apartment in town.

Q. Can I work while studying at IPU New Zealand?
A. Yes, you can work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) during your study, if your student visa mentions work rights. Please refer to this link to find out more about work rights available to students studying in New Zealand. Final-year Masters students are eligible for full-time work rights while they complete their research. Under 18s will need to have the permission of their parents. More details can be found here.

Q. Can I bring my partner and children with me?
A. The short answer is yes. However, it depends on the level of your programme, and the relationship between you and your partner. Please refer to Immigration New Zealand website for more details here.

Q. What kind of support will I receive from IPU New Zealand during my study?
A. We have a dedicated Support Support team, who will assist you from your arrival in Palmerston North, help you to settle into life at IPU New Zealand, and continue supporting you throughout your studies.

Q. What is the weather like in Palmerston North?
A. Palmerston North’s climate is temperate with maximum daytime temperatures averaging 22°C (72°F) in summer and 12°C (54°F) in winter. Annual rainfall is approximately 960mm (37.8in).

Q. How much does it cost for me to live in Palmerston North?
A. Palmerston North city is consistently ranked amongst the most affordable cities in New Zealand to live in. Palmerston North, and the surrounding towns of Feilding and Ashhurst, make the Manawatū region a warm and welcoming place to live, work and study. You are looking to spend around NZ$350 a week (including rent (flatting with others), food and bills).

Q. Can I stay and work in New Zealand after my study?
A. The short answer is yes you can. However, you must obtain an appropriate visa, first. Please refer to Immigration New Zealand website for more information here.