Category: Study Abroad

Big News: NZ Student Visa Work Rights Expanded Starting November 2025!

New Zealand is making headlines again! On 14 July 2025, New Zealand Immigration announced a major policy upgrade for international students. Starting 3 November 2025, those on a student visa will be allowed to work 25 hours per week during term time — up from the previous 20-hour limit. This change is part of the nation’s “International Education Going for Growth” initiative to attract global talent.

🔍 At a Glance: What Are the Key Changes?

Policy Area	Current Rule	New Rule (Nov 2025)
In-study Work Hours	20 hours/week	25 hours/week
Exchange/Study Abroad Eligibility	Often Excluded	Fully Included
Switching Course/Provider	Variation of Conditions Required	New Student Visa Required

✨ Why This Change Is a Win for Students

• More Earning Power: An extra 5 hours per week could mean 25% more income.
• Inclusion of Exchange Students: 1-semester and short-term programmes are now eligible for work rights.
• Clearer Visa Rules: Easier compliance when switching institutions or programs.

🌟 Why It’s Great News for Sri Lankan Students

Sri Lankan students often balance study and part-time jobs. This change offers:

• More financial flexibility
• Opportunity to engage in short-term study abroad programmes with work rights
• Improved ROI on international education

🌍 NZ vs. Australia & UK: Who Comes Out Ahead?

Country	Weekly Work Limit	Short-Term/Exchange Student Work Rights	Policy Direction
New Zealand	25 hours	Fully Included	Student-Centric & Growth-Driven
Australia	20 hours	Restricted	Conservative
United Kingdom	20 hours	Limited	Conservative

💼 AIA Study Abroad Tips

• Apply to NZQA-accredited programmes eligible for 25-hour work weeks.
• Explore short-term exchanges for international exposure + income.
• Stay updated on visa requirements when changing courses or institutions

Frequently Asked Questions🔍❓

Q: Can I work 25 hours/week under my current visa?
A: Only if your visa is issued on or after 3 November 2025. Otherwise, you must apply for a variation.

Q: Are high school students eligible?
A: Yes, for Years 12-13, but only with written consent from both school and parents.

Q: What if I change my programme or provider?
A: You will need to apply for a new student visa.

✅ What You Should Do Now

☑️ Review your study plan for eligibility

☑️ Plan ahead for short-term study abroad or exchange programmes

☑️ Start gathering documents for November visa changes

📢 Contact AIA Study Abroad

Let our experts help you benefit from New Zealand’s most student-friendly visa update yet!

Forward-thinking students choose New Zealand. Smart students choose AIA.

South Korea has become a global hotspot for international students, and for good reasons. Whether you’re drawn to academic excellence, cultural richness, tech innovation, affordability, or vibrant student life, “Study in Korea” initiatives such as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) back it all up. Here’s an inspiring deep dive:

🎓 Prestigious, World-Class Education

Top-Ranked Institutions: South Korea boasts five QS Top 100 universities, including:

• Seoul National University (SNU)
• KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology)
• Yonsei University
• Korea University
• POSTECH

Elite Academic Culture

The “SKY” universities—SNU, Korea University, Yonsei—are South Korea’s Ivy League and are highly competitive and respected worldwide.

Cutting-edge research & innovation

• KAIST offers up to 80% of courses in English.
• Full scholarships available for international students.
• Universities collaborate with tech leaders like Samsung, LG, Hyundai to provide hands-on research and practical experience.

📄Student Visa Categories in South Korea

Before moving to South Korea, you’ll need to apply for a student visa that matches your program duration and type:

• D-2 Visa – For full-time degree programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) at Korean universities.
• D-4 Visa – For language training or non-degree programs, often used before transitioning into a degree course.
• D-10 Visa – For job-seeking after graduation. Valid up to 6 months and extendable.
• E-7 Visa – For skilled work post-graduation, especially if you’re hired by a Korean company.

🔑 Note: International students can also work part-time up to 20 hours/week for UG and up to 30 hours/week for PG during semesters and full-time during breaks.

💸 Affordable & Financial Supportive

Budget-Friendly Education

• Annual tuition: USD 3,000–10,000
• Monthly living costs: USD 400–1,200 (dorms, transport, food)

Generous scholarships – Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) includes:

• 100% tuition fee waiver
• Monthly living stipend (KRW 800,000–1,000,000)
• Airfare & Korean language training
• Many universities offer merit-based scholarships as well.

🐉 Rich Cultural Immersion

Modern‑traditional fusion

• Experience ancient palaces and bustling futuristic cities. Korean pop culture—K‑Pop, K‑Drama—is globally influential.
• Participate in festivals, food tours, historic temples, and UNESCO heritage sites, merging learning with lived experiences.

Learn the language

• Korean immersion programs and TOPIK prep courses are widely available, even within English-taught degrees.

🔧 Innovation, Tech & Job Market

Technology-driven environment

• World’s fastest internet
• Tech-forward campuses
• High research output

Work opportunities after graduation

• The Korean economy—the “Asian tiger”—offers robust job sectors and post-study work visas (D‑10, E‑7).
• High employment rates for SKY and KAIST grads, with strong placement in local and global markets.

🛡️ Safety & Student-Friendly Society

One of the world’s safest countries

South Korea ranks 1st among OECD countries in safety and lowest crime.

Comprehensive student support

• Universities offer visa help, counselling, buddy programs, and cultural events to ease adaptation.
• Active international student groups foster community and belonging.

🌍 A Vibrant, Global Campus Culture

• Student Life: Join cultural clubs, music and KPop events, sports fests, and more.
• Diverse Community: Meet students from all over the world and build lifelong friendships.
• Part-Time Work: Opportunities to work while studying help boost income and local experience.

🧭 Studying in South Korea delivers a powerful blend of academic excellence, innovation-driven experience, affordability, cultural richness, safety, and career prospects, positioning it as one of the world’s best education destinations. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier university, a technology career, language mastery, or a dynamic international network, South Korea has it all.

🎯 Pro Tips for Getting Started

• Explore scholarships like GKS, university-specific, and program-level awards.
• Choose programs in English or those offering Korean immersion.
• Prepare for post-study opportunities—network early, participate in internships, and build Korean skills.

✨ Quick Tips to Get Started:

• Research programs taught in English and those with Korean language immersion.
• Apply for the GKS or university-level scholarships early.
• Plan your study pathways (D-2/D4).
• Improve Korean language skills to expand your job options after graduation.

Need Guidance with Applications or Scholarships?

If you’d like help with programs, scholarships, or applications, we’ve got your back—just say the word!

Eligibility Requirements for Sri Lankan Students

• Completed a 4-year bachelor’s degree in a science or health field
• High GPA (85%+)
• MCAT score (varies by university, average 510+)
• English proficiency test
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) & Letters of Recommendation
• Strong CV with volunteering or healthcare exposure

Some programs may exempt the MCAT under special pathways, but a strong GPA and relevant background are still crucial

Educational Pathway:

Stage	Details
Bachelor’s Degree	3–4 years in science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) — mandatory before medicine
MCAT Exam	Medical College Admission Test — required by most schools
MD Program (Medicine)	3–4 years at a medical university
Residency	A specialised clinical training period of 2–5 years follows the MD.

Note: Unlike Sri Lanka, Canada does not offer direct entry into medicine after high school. A pre-medical bachelor’s degree is required.

Most Canadian medical schools allocate very few international student seats — typically under 10 per intake.

Cost of Studying Medicine in Canada

Expense	Estimated Annual Cost (CAD)
MD Program Tuition	$25,000 – $65,000
Living Expenses	$12,000 – $18,000
Insurance, Supplies, Travel	$2,000 – $3,000
Total (per year)	$40,000 – $85,000

Scholarships for international students are limited. However, selected institutions may offer need-based aid or external funding options.

Step-by-Step Process for Sri Lankan Applicants

1. Complete a bachelor’s degree in life sciences
2. Take the MCAT
3. Apply to medical universities
4. Prepare SOP, LORs, transcripts, and English Language Proficiency test
5. Apply for a Canada Study Permit
6. On admission, complete the 3–4 year MD program
7. Apply for residency training in a hospital
8. Pass the licensing exams (MCCQE and NAC OSCE) to practice medicine in Canada

Studying medicine in Canada is a rewarding opportunity for international students, but it requires early planning, excellent academic performance, and a highly competitive application profile to succeed.

Should you require any assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to AIA Study Abroad

By early 2025, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) division of the Home Office plans to transition to a digital system, replacing most physical documents used to verify a student’s immigration status with an eVisa. The eVisa will replace previously required documents, including:

• Biometric residence permits (BRP)

• Biometric residence cards (BRC)

• Passport endorsements

• Vignette stickers on passports

What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a crucial digital record of a student’s immigration status, outlining the conditions for entering and staying in the United Kingdom. Most Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) will expire on December 31, 2024. Students must create a UKVI account before their BRP expires. If your BRP expires on or after this date but you have valid permission to stay in the UK, carry your BRP when travelling until March 31, 2025. Taking these steps is essential for maintaining your status in the UK.

Students must create their UKVI account immediately upon receiving their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

In certain instances, students who have acquired an eVisa may still be required to submit their biometric information in person. If this is necessary, applicants will receive direct notification.

The transition from traditional physical documentation to a digital eVisa aims to enhance security protocols and facilitate the verification of a student’s status with UK border authorities and other relevant entities, such as employers and educational institutions. This advancement reflects a commitment to creating a more efficient and secure process for international students.

How Do You Get a UKVI Account?

This process varies depending on whether students already possess a biometric residence permit (BRP) or are new applicants applying directly to UKVI.

New Student Applicants

Students should set up their UKVI account as soon as they receive their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). To do so, applicants will need:

• A valid phone number and email address for verification and security purposes
• A valid passport
• Visa application number

Important Notice: Most Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will expire on December 31, 2024. All sponsored students at UK universities must create a UKVI account and provide a share code to confirm their permission to stay in the UK. To avoid complications with your residency status, please complete this step promptly. Your swift action is essential.

What Happens After You Create a UKVI Account?

After applicants create their UKVI account, they can access their eVisa and review their rights and responsibilities in the UK related to their visa. Within their UKVI account, students can also update any changes to their personal details, such as a new passport number or email address.

Applicants should be aware that access to their eVisa may be denied under the following circumstances:

– If they possess a visa that is valid for less than 6 months

– If they hold an EU Settlement Scheme family permit

– If they have an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)

– If they are exempt from immigration control, such as diplomats or individuals with ‘right of abode’

For those navigating the application process, the UK Government’s website is a valuable resource, offering comprehensive information, as well as insightful videos and tutorials designed to guide you every step of the way.

Should you require any additional assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to AIA Study Abroad

Exciting news for Sri Lankan students! 🚀 AIA Holdings’ Study Abroad is proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kangwon National University (KNU) in South Korea🇰🇷! Did you know? Kangwon National University (KNU) is one of the 10 core national universities in South Korea, known for its commitment to academic excellence and regional development. As one of the exclusive partners for KNU, we are thrilled to offer unparalleled opportunities for Sri Lankan students to pursue their academic dreams in South Korea🇰🇷. Unlock your future in South Korea with AIA Study Abroad! Contact us today to learn more about this incredible opportunity

Are you passionate about preserving our planet? Living sustainably is something everyone can choose to do, international students included. Creating a more livable world for everyone sometimes feels like an overwhelming challenge. But the key is twofold: stay hopeful, and know that every action you take has an impact.

“So, where do we go from here? First, we take a breath. It’s a lot. And in some ways, we as humans were not designed for a crisis this massive and all-encompassing. In other ways, we were made for this moment. What we do now is dream. From a foundation of science and community, we must imagine the future we want to live in, and the future we want to pass on, and every day do something to reel the dream closer to reality.“

Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine K. Wilkinson

Let’s look at a few ideas for living sustainably while studying abroad below. These are just a few ideas to get you started, so don’t be afraid to add to this list!

There are lots of small switches you can make to live sustainably. Plus, many of these changes are good news for your student budget.

Whether you’re on a student meal plan or buying groceries, choosing more plant-based foods can save you money. Just make sure you’re still getting enough protein! Foods like quinoa, soy milk, chickpeas, beans, and even wholegrain rice are great picks. Eggs and cheese are good vegetarian options, as well.

Active transportation also has benefits that are good for you and good for the earth. Try walking to class, biking to a study date, or taking a scooter to your part-time job. You’ll get fresh air, improve your lung capacity, and build stronger leg muscles. Plus, parking is usually easier to find, and almost always free. In more extreme climates or for longer trips, consider carpooling or public transit.

Planning a party? From thrifting your outfit to using reusable or compostable dishes and decorations, small actions can make even the biggest party more sustainable. Before the party, find out who’s glad to take leftovers home at the end of the night. This cuts down on food waste (and can make your friends who hate to cook very happy)!

Sustainable Practices in Class

Sustainability can also be part of your class syllabus. Australia’s Group of Eight Universities’ Living Laboratory publication shares research, ethical purchasing, and energy management achievements. These projects are often built into coursework, and have real-world impact.

The University of Melbourne has increased Fair Trade product purchasing through their Faculty of Business’ practicum program. And, at Monash University, food waste is diverted from landfills by using green bins.

Student Action

International students can’t vote in political elections when abroad. But you can vote for, volunteer with, or be student council candidates who encourage sustainable practices. Student councils look at issues students face, and advocate for policies that improve their lives. Check out the Western University Student Council page for ideas. That said, don’t forget to vote by mail in elections in your home country while you’re studying abroad!

Other student groups can make a difference, too. Here are some success stories:

• The award-winning Sustainability Leadership Council at McEwan University managed projects ranging from Green Spaces (where students coach the university’s administration on green strategies) to addressing stationery waste.
• University of Guelph students were key to the university’s journey to divest from fossil fuel companies in its portfolio. Chair of the Board of Governors, Shauneen Bruder, noted: “Our students helped the University shape our thinking and timing about the positive actions needed to meet the complex challenge of climate change.”
• University of the Pacific’s Green Team encourages recycling and composting during student move in/move out. They also promote recycling at major events.
• At the University of Idaho, student volunteers have planted over 6,000 native trees. This prevents erosion and restores the local ecosystem.

Like any change, it’s best to start small. Then, build that energy into something bigger. By introducing small changes in your life to make it more sustainable, you can encourage those around you to start doing the same. By working together on a project you care about, more impactful changes will occur.