UK
Study abroad in the United Kingdom, famous for the royal family, fish and chips, and tea.
Why study in the UK?
New Zealand has close ties to the UK. You will likely feel right at home in the land of castles, lush green countryside, and world-class universities. Whether you choose to study in England, Scotland or Wales, you’ll love the friendly people, historic sites, and comforting food (bangers and mash, anyone?). A student exchange to the UK is a great opportunity to experience this iconic destination for yourself.
All the people were lovely and I made an amazing group of friends that I am so thankful for. I thought to myself how my family would love it and how I’ll have to bring them back here.
Samantha, Ngatea
Placements
You can choose to study in the UK for eight weeks, three months, four months, one semester, or six months. Please note that gap year students cannot apply. You must be aged between 16-18 on August 31st of the academic year you are joining.
You could be placed in either England or Scotland – you may specifically request a placement in either of these countries at an additional cost. Host families in the UK are paid a small honorarium. This is not at commercial rates so you are not considered a border – you will be treated as part of the family like any other exchange programme. All of our host families are carefully vetted. We conduct home interviews, inspections, and police checks to ensure our students are placed in a secure and supportive living environment.
We aren’t currently offering exchanges to the UK. Please check back again later.
Duration
Departs
Returns
Application deadline
Price
Covered expenses
Included in the fee:
- School and family documents for your student visa application
- Placement in a suitable host family and school
- Full board and lodging with a host family
- Pre-departure orientation in NZ and arrival orientation in the UK
- Meet and greet at the airport in NZ and at the airport in the UK
- Bi-monthly progress reports to your parents
- Transfer to your host community from the nearest airport (and back again)
- Ongoing monitoring by the host organisation
- 24/7 emergency assistance in the UK and NZ
- Certificate of completion upon return
Other costs
Not included in the fee:
Flights
You are responsible for paying all domestic and international airfares between your home and your host community in the UK.
Insurance
You will be required to purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to your departure.
School setup
Depending on your school and subject choices, you may be required to pay for a uniform or extra-curricular activities.
Spending money
We recommend allocating approximately $450 NZD spending money per month to cover things like transport, school lunches, and weekend activities.
Optional trips
It’s a good idea to save some money for optional trips organised by your host family or your host organisation in the UK.
Eligibility
Students must be:
- Aged between 16 and 18 years prior to the programme start date
- A New Zealand Citizen or hold Permanent Residency
- Enrolled in a high school
- Fit, well, and have a suitable personality profile
- Academically motivated
Visas
You will not require a visa if you have a New Zealand passport. Placement paperwork will be provided before your departure and these will need to be presented to the immigration officer at border control.
Financing and scholarships
We know that financing your exchange might be a bit of a challenge, but don’t let that hold you back from pursuing the experience of a lifetime! NZIIU offers a select number of scholarships each year to exceptional students who require some financial assistance, as well as fundraising kits.
Explore now »NZIIU fundraising kit »
Meet our past students
Meet our NZIIU Student Ambassadors at one of our information day events! These students who have recently been on exchange have done it all, and are here to share their knowledge, experiences, and stories from exchange.
Learn More »