International Students
Ngā Ākonga Huriao
A leading New Zealand education, with an experience that is genuinely personal. At St Andrew’s College, international students are welcomed into the life of a leading independent, co-educational school with an established boarding community in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Our international programme is deliberately small, with no more than 30 international students at the College at any one time. This allows students to be known and supported as individuals, form genuine friendships with New Zealand students, and become fully involved in College life.
What matters most to your family?
Every family has different priorities. Some are looking first for an unforgettable experience of New Zealand. Others are focused on academic achievement and preparation for university.
At St Andrew’s College, students receive both. Choose the pathway that best reflects what you would like to explore first.
Why families choose St Andrew’s
A St Andrew’s education combines academic opportunity with personal support and an authentic experience of life in New Zealand.
Small by design
We deliberately keep our international community small and diverse. With a maximum of 30 international students, and a limited number from any one country, students are encouraged to speak English, build friendships with Kiwi students and become part of the wider College community.
They are not one student among hundreds of international students. They are a valued member of the St Andrew’s College community.
Maximum 30 international students
8–10 maximum from any one country
Boarding or homestay accommodation options
30+ sports plus extensive cultural and co-curricular opportunities
An exceptional education and experience
International students at St Andrew’s College benefit from:
a deliberately small and personal international programme;
an independent, co-educational learning environment;
an extensive choice of academic subjects;
dedicated international student support;
English language support when required;
more than 30 sporting options;
extensive music, arts, cultural and co-curricular opportunities;
modern learning, arts and sporting facilities;
boarding and homestay options; and
opportunities to experience Christchurch and the New Zealand outdoors.
Known, supported and cared for
Moving to another country is a significant step. Our deliberately small international programme allows our team to know each student's individual needs and help them settle successfully into their new school, accommodation and life in New Zealand.
Students have access to academic guidance, English-language support and an established pastoral care network throughout their time at the College.
Boarding or homestay
International students can experience life in Christchurch through boarding at the College or living with an approved New Zealand homestay family.
Boarding provides a close-knit community within the College, while homestay offers the opportunity to become part of everyday New Zealand family life.
Study in one of New Zealand's most exciting cities
Christchurch combines the advantages of a modern, welcoming city with ready access to beaches, mountains and the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's South Island.
For an international student, it provides the opportunity to enjoy city life while experiencing the outdoor lifestyle for which New Zealand is known.
"The St Andrew’s College International Programme is an opportunity for young men and women to embrace a dynamic secondary school, rich in culture, tradition and excellence. With modern facilities in which to study and board, students are given every opportunity to learn, perform and achieve success."
Palē Tauti Director of International and Exchange Students
Why choose St Andrew's College
Outstanding facilities
St Andrew’s offers modern classrooms and facilities such as boarding houses, gyms, a chapel, arts studios, a media studio, a theatre, a library, a fitness centre, a cafeteria, a health centre with a nurse, and extensive sports fields and courts. International students also benefit from an Outdoor Education programme at the College’s mountain lodge in Canterbury's high country.
World-class education
International students receive a world-class education at St Andrew’s. Our expert teachers and excellent facilities help students achieve outstanding academic results. Many students win regional, national, and international prizes and scholarships.
Exciting co-curricular options
International students can choose from over 30 sports, and many cultural activities, including music, dance, drama, and filmmaking. St Andrew’s has a championship-winning Pipe Band and a popular Highland Dance programme.
Pathway to a successful future
International students come to New Zealand for cultural experiences and high-quality education. St Andrew’s College prepares students for top universities and exciting careers. They become part of the St Andrew’s family and stay connected even after graduation.
Enrolment requirements
International students, for whom English is a second language, must sit an entrance test administered by AEAS. AEAS test results provide detail regarding the student’s English language proficiency and their general ability.
International fees
Tuition fees cover teaching and support. Fees are payable in advance and include GST.
International publications
Our International Prospectus and flyers provide an insight into life at St Andrew's College, including our campus, curriculum, well-being, events, activities, and boarding accommodation.
Life as an international student
Discover what a St Andrew's College education can offer your child
International students receive a world-class education at St Andrew’s, with a focus on excellence, expert teachers, and a safe learning environment.
Dunyachut Vatananan (OC 2019) and Narisara Thaniratt (OC 2020)
Thai international students
Dunyachut (Rocky) Vatananan (OC 2019) and Narisara (Beem) Thaniratt (OC 2020) are two St Andrew’s College international students who joined us from Thailand. Rocky has been at St Andrew’s College for five years and Beem for two years. In this short video they share their experiences, challenges and what they have enjoyed the most studying at St Andrew’s College and living in New Zealand.
Yuji Hattori (OC 2019)
Japanese international student
Yuji Hattori (OC 2019) initially joined St Andrew's College in 2015, for a two-week study trip. Yuji enjoyed what St Andrew's College had to offer and New Zealand's culture, so he decided to extend his stay. Yuji relished the challenge of learning the New Zealand curriculum and immersed himself in the boarding house and International Club, which has given him confidence and seen his English go from strength to strength. Yuji enjoys playing hockey, badminton, basketball, magic card tricks and the relaxed Christchurch day-to-day life.
Friederike Moerke (OC 2017)
German international student
St Andrew's College has been home to many international students who have flourished learning abroad and enjoyed St Andrew's College and the New Zealand culture. Friederike Moerke (OC 2017) started St Andrew's College as a Year 11 student in 2015. After being integrated and warmly welcomed into the StAC family, Friederike decided to finish her education at St Andrew's College in 2017. This video shares what Friederike enjoyed about St Andrew's College life.
Contact Information
Enquiries
For all international student enquiries, please contact our Director of International Students and Exchanges, Palē Tauti.
Contact
+64 3 940 2086
Apply Online
Please click here to complete an online application for an international student.
