Student at a desk is watching a lecture online through his computer

Studying online

There are lots of great things about studying online and the number of people choosing distance learning, instead of attending classes in person, is increasing all over the world.

Distance learning means you can study for a globally recognised qualification that will enable you to succeed in your career while remaining in your home country. You can also enjoy the benefits of a more flexible schedule by joining a global community of online learners.

While there are many advantages, studying online may not always be your choice and it can also present some unique challenges. For example, you may struggle with time management and motivation, but with the right support and strategies, online study can be hugely successful and rewarding.

What you need to know

New Zealand education providers support both your academic progress and personal wellbeing. There are lots of resources, support, people, and services available to help you succeed.

You don’t need a student visa to study online outside of New Zealand. If you decide to travel here to continue your study however, you should check if you need a visa before you enter the country.

You’ll be taught by experts in your field, access your course materials online and participate in online discussions and activities. While this will give you valuable online experience and help you develop self-discipline and time management skills, it will also present challenges.

Depending on what course you’ve chosen you may learn in your own time at your own pace, which can be very helpful when you are in a different time zone to your education provider. However this may mean you don’t have real-time contact with teachers and classmates.

Learning in real-time can also be a problem as this might be at an inconvenient time of the day in your time zone, such as during the night.

How to overcome the challenges

Adjust schedule – watch recorded lectures and keep track of due dates or change your schedule for real-time lectures.
Be motivated – you’ll need to learn to be more independent than students on campus.
Make new friendships – you might feel more isolated with reduced opportunities to socialise, but with a little effort and using the right digital platforms you can still connect with fellow students.
Check your technology – it’s essential to have reliable devices and a good internet connection.
Improve spoken communication – with fewer opportunities to catch up in person, virtual face-to-face presentations and meetings are even more important.

My online classes have been extremely informative and fun, and the professors have been extremely helpful during the online lectures. They give us extra time for completing the coursework and assignment because of the time differences between New Zealand and India and are really good at talking us through any difficulties in the curriculum.

Anirudh Vathul Tiruvallur Thattai — India

Tips to help you study online from overseas

When you’re studying online from overseas, it doesn’t mean you’re studying alone, but you do need to make a special effort to connect with your classmates and teachers.

Study space

Have a dedicated study space with few distractions or use other spaces outside of where you live, such as your local library or education provider.

Manage time differences

You may need to schedule specific times in your week to connect with your online classmates and teachers if they are not available during your daytime hours.

Create good study habits

Use a daily and weekly planner to schedule your study time, online classes, exams, due dates, breaks and outside commitments.

Access to resources

Access to resources - Your education provider might have dedicated study groups, communications channels and online platforms. Use social media to connect with classmates. Some governments restrict access to overseas platforms and websites, so check this is not going to be a problem for you.

Troubleshoot any technical issues

Invest in a reliable laptop or computer, ensure your operating system and software is up to date, and use a cloud-based backup service to avoid losing any important work.

Language challenges

Get used to the New Zealand accent by watching some New Zealand TV shows or listening to New Zealand radio and podcasts.

Tip: Visit Careers NZ(external link that opens in a new tab) for more tips on how to study online.

Support

At times, being an online student can be challenging, Remember you are not alone, there is help you can reach out to whenever you need to. If you are unsure of anything or need support, you just need to ask. The help can include:

Orientation – connect with other students by attending online orientation activities at the start of your course.

Access to resources – your education provider’s website will outline additional resources available to you, such as student advisors, online learning portals or a digital library, or other information.

Academic advice – connect with lecturers and other academic staff directly if you have any questions about your course, or check out online resources that may help with writing and studying strategies.

Student care – if you’re struggling and need help you can access support services available through your education provider, for practical advice for your wellbeing and success.

Peer support – join a study group with your classmates, find out about buddy and mentor programmes and student advisors.

Tip: Check out your education provider’s website for more information on what support they have available.