International Dept
Bem-vindo! Welcome. This term we welcomed 12 new Brazilian international students to Mount
Hutt College - Diego, Matheus, Livia and Flavio. These students were part of the "Prontos Pro
Mundo" (Ready for the World) which is a scholarship programme from the state of São Paulo,
Brazil. The programme sends 1000 students to study abroad, specifically high school students to
New Zealand. Brazil is in the top six of countries sending students to New Zealand which is
supported by New Zealand’s strong ratings for safety, quality of education, and visa access. If you
are interested in hosting a student with your family in the future, please contact MHC.
My exchange process started with a selection process, which basically consisted of an English
course and a proficiency test. This all began in August 2025, when I was selected to take the test
for the first time. Unfortunately, I did not pass that time. After some time, another girl and I were
called to take the test again, and this time, I managed to pass. Now, after this process, it has been
lovely to get to know New Zealand and Mount Hutt College.Everyone has been very welcoming to
us and have done everything to make this moment in my life amazing.
Looking back, I’m so glad I didn't give up. This experience is turning out to be about so much more
than just perfecting my English; it’s a massive journey of personal growth. Every single day brings
a chance to connect with new cultures, make lifelong friends, and see the world differently. I am so
grateful for this opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, build amazing memories, and open
doors for my future. - Bianca Dos Santos Machado
The whole process of my exchange program began with a student selection process for a test
linked to a program called "Prontos pro Mundo" (Ready for the World), which offered a fully funded
exchange opportunity. Another student passed the first test and went to Canada, but when the
second round of testing took place, I achieved the highest score and was selected for the
exchange program I had always dreamed of. A few weeks later, I found out my destination country
was New Zealand, and I was overjoyed. Over the course of five months, I handled important
paperwork and obtained my passport and visa. When the day finally arrived July 6, 2026 my
exchange journey began. I made several friends during the trip, which was also my first time flying;
everything was perfect and far better than I had imagined.
Upon arriving in New Zealand, everything felt magical: the stunning landscapes, the incredibly
welcoming and friendly people, and even the English language which I simply love. I am living my
dream. Today, August 6, 2026, marks my third week at school; I have never liked a school as much
as I like Mount Hutt College. The classes are very different and engaging. If I could, I would stay
longer than my scheduled three-month exchange; it is a unique experience that everyone should
have, and it has truly changed my life. - Roxanne Guimares