Maverick School of Languages

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about Maverick School of Languages, Dunedin, New Zealand, visas, further studies and other services.Please send us a message if you cannot find an answer to your question on our list or if there is anything specific you would like to know.Click here for some useful links.

How do I enroll into your School?
Please go to Application and Enrolment Information to find out how to enroll into Maverick School of Languages. Also, please read our Conditions of Enrolment. Or contact us to find out more.
Where is your school located?
We are located in the centre of downtown Dunedin (just a 2 minute walk from the Octagon) on the South Island of New Zealand. There are many cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby, also a cinema and government buildings.
What facilities are available at your school?
You can take either the lift or the stairs to reach our school on level 2 of Capitol Building on Princes Street. There are several spacious and well-lit classrooms, a kitchen with facilities, toilets, computers with internet access for students and teachers to use, books and dictionaries to use in class or take home to read.
What countries do students in your school come from?
We have students from China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Bolivia and Denmark.
How easy is it to meet New Zealanders?
Dunedin is known as the “Student City” and there are many places for young people to go to and plenty of things to do. We organize joint activities with other schools to help you meet local people and other international students. Moreover, most of our students are placed with a local homestay family, which is a great way to improve your English and experience Kiwi culture.
How many levels of language study are there?
We teach different levels of English – from Beginner to Advanced. We also have IELTS, TOEFL and TOEIC exam preparation courses.
How many students are there per class?
Our classes are quite small (anywhere from 7 to 10 students) which ensures that students receive plenty of individual attention from the teachers.
When can I start my classes?
You can start a class every Monday after your enrolment has been processed and fees paid.
Can I sit exams, such as IELTS or TOEFL, while at Maverick School of Languages?
We have exam preparation courses and can arrange for you to take IELTS and TOEFL exams at an exam centre here in Dunedin.
Will I get a Certificate at the end of my course?
Yes, at the end of the course you receive a certification of your attendance and a progress report.
Can I go on to study at a high school, polytechnic or university?
Yes, we can arrange for you to go on to a local high school, polytechnic or university. However, you will need to meet school entrance requirements, such as an appropriate IELTS score.
What extra costs are there?
Please go to Course and Price information to find out more about costs. Please go to Living Costs information to find out about cost of living in Dunedin and New Zealand.
Where will I stay while studying at your school?
Please go to Housing Options to find out more about what accommodation we provide for our students. Most of our students stay with a New Zealand homestay family. We believe it is a great opportunity for international students to experience New Zealand culture and practice their English. Our homestay families are carefully selected by our staff. The homestay families are experienced, friendly and welcoming, and many have hosted international students before. Families live in pleasant homes in different parts of Dunedin, but no further than 10 to 20 minutes by bus. We can also help you find other types of accommodation (hostels, apartments, houses).
What sort of family will I stay with?
When choosing a homestay family we will take into account your preferences and requests – family with young or older children, with pets or without pets, etc. Please let us know what sort of family you would like or what special diet, health or other requirements you have, and our staff will try to find a family that fits.
If I need help or advice in my native language, will it be available?
Yes, we provide access to foreign language counselors who will be available to help you better understand the new environment and assist you with your questions and problems.
Does the school organise any activities?
Yes, every Wednesday we have a free conversation club where students are welcome to join and discuss different topics and issues. It is a great opportunity to practice speaking English with other students, teachers and native speakers. Also, every Friday afternoon we organize free activities and sight-seeing trips for our students. Extra activities and trips over the weekend or holiday are also available on request.Please go to Activities page for more details.
Do I need a visa for New Zealand and what type of visa do I need?
Please go to the New Zealand Immigration website for more details concerning visa requirements. Generally, if you are studying for less than 3 months you do not need a Student Visa, you can come and study on a Visitor’s or Limited Purpose Visa; if you are studying for more than 3 months, you will require a Student Visa.
At Maverick School we can assist you with visa applications and procedures – before you leave your home country or when you are already in NZ. Or you can CLICK HERE to find out visa requirements for your country.
 
 
If you could not find answers to your questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to CONTACT US.