INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE
 OVERSEAS STUDENTS

The institute welcomes students from overseas. Studying in Tonga will be an unique experience, especially for those coming from rich, westernised countries. In addition to an internationally accepted study program the student will learn to appreciate the Tongan culture and way of life. It is still a very traditional society although even here the onslaught of western influences seems to be unstoppable.

Degrees from ‘Atenisi university are recognised by major universities in New Zealand and Australia as well as Hawai‘i and Salt Lake City, to name a few popular places at where many Tongans tend to continue their studies towards higher degrees.

Tonga is not a rich country, and ‘Atenisi is poorer still. The university is not suited for those who seek luxury, the latest and newest resources, well stocked laboratories, forefront research, or intend to follow a career where high grades from a renowned university would be essential. But those who seek a broad basis and strive to be a 'homo universale' will find the place hard to beat.

All foreign students who satisfy the same requirements as asked from the local students (see degree requirements) can enter. Assistance will be provided in obtaining student visa, and is no problem for genuine students, but the institute is not responsible for any refusal by the Tongan immigration department. Only on-campus tuition will be offered, there is no distant education or by correspondence teaching. Except for a few Tongan courses or language courses, all teaching is in English.

The value of the local currency (pa‘anga, or Tongan dollar) is subject to daily fluctuations, but for comparisons, one may take 1 USA dollar to be equal to T$2. (2009). See the chapter of tuition expenses for school fees and other study costs. Simple housing would be at least T$500 per month if off campus to double that amount for more luxury. Local food will be at least T$50 per week to T$100 or more depending on taste, especially if imported food is bought. However, being a tropical country, clothing can be very simple. In any case, remember that while local products are fairly cheap, that all foreign goods are to be imported by ship, making them much more expensive than in big cities.

‘Atenisi does not employ agents for recruiting students. It does, however, gracefully accept the services of those who wish to act as such, either in Tonga or overseas, and these agents may set their own fees. But intending students should be aware when paying their schoolfees that only payments done to, and receipted by ‘Atenisi university will be recognised.

PRELIMINARY REGISTRATION

This form (download: pdf, 172kB) is a copy of the official registration form. Prospective students wishing to enrol can make a copy of these pages, fill in the needed data and send it, together with copies of relevant diplomas and so, to ‘Atenisi university (see address) either by mail, fax, or email. Upon reception the dean will study the papers, and if satisfied invite the student to officially enrol.

The official enrolment can only be done at the university itself at the beginning of the academic year (begin February). At that moment the original diplomas or certified copies are to be shown. Failure to produce all of the papers which were used during the preliminary enrolment will automatically void the registration. All official papers must either be in the English language or provided with a certified English translation.