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Study in New Zealand: Universities, Costs and Intakes

New Zealand has eight universities, all of which appear in major international rankings, plus institutes of technology and polytechnics. Class sizes are often smaller than in larger destinations, and the country has a reputation for a safe, welcoming environment.

In our course finder: 1 universities · 1 courses

Programmes are practical and research-led, and many postgraduate options can be completed in one to two years.

Why Indian students consider New Zealand

  • All eight universities are internationally ranked
  • Smaller class sizes and supportive campuses
  • Part-time work options for eligible students
  • A post-study work visa for eligible graduates

Popular fields of study

  • Information technology
  • Engineering
  • Agriculture and environmental science
  • Business
  • Hospitality and tourism
  • Health sciences

Common qualifications

  • Bachelor’s (usually 3 years)
  • Postgraduate diploma and certificate
  • Master’s (1–2 years)
  • PhD

Entry and English language requirements

Academic entry requirements

Universities assess your previous study against programme requirements. For postgraduate programmes, a relevant bachelor’s degree with a set grade average is usually required.

English language requirements

IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and other tests are accepted by most institutions; programmes set minimum scores.

Intakes and application timeline

The main intakes are February (Semester 1) and July (Semester 2). Some programmes have additional start dates.

  1. 110–12 months before: shortlist programmes
  2. 26–9 months before: apply
  3. 3After an offer: pay fees or deposit as required
  4. 4Apply for the student visa through Immigration New Zealand
  5. 5Arrange insurance and accommodation

Tuition fees and living costs

Tuition varies by institution and programme. Auckland is typically the most expensive city. Immigration New Zealand sets the minimum funds you must show for living costs.

Indicative tuition (our database)
NZD 26,000 – 45,000/year
Indicative living costs (our database)
NZD 15,000 – 20,000/year

Indicative ranges only. Check each university’s fee page and the official visa funds requirement.

Scholarships

Universities offer international student scholarships, and the New Zealand Government has offered some scholarship schemes for Indian students. Check eligibility for each cycle.

Browse all scholarships

Student visa overview

You need a student visa to study full-time. You will need an offer of place from an approved education provider, evidence of tuition payment, proof of funds and health requirements as applicable.

Working while you study

Some students can work part-time during term and full-time in scheduled holidays, depending on their programme and visa conditions. Check your visa conditions with Immigration New Zealand.

After graduation

The Post Study Work Visa allows eligible graduates to work in New Zealand. Eligibility and length depend on your qualification and where you studied.

Popular student cities

  • Auckland
  • Wellington
  • Christchurch
  • Dunedin
  • Hamilton

Choosing a course and university

  • Check whether your qualification is eligible for the post-study work visa
  • Compare costs between Auckland and other cities
  • Look at industry links and placements within the programme

Studying in New Zealand: common questions

How many universities are there in New Zealand?

There are eight universities, along with institutes of technology, polytechnics and private training establishments.

Can I work while studying in New Zealand?

Many students can work part-time during term, depending on their visa conditions.

Which intake should I choose?

February offers the widest choice; July is a good alternative for many programmes.

Official sources

Last reviewed:

Plan your studies in New Zealand

Book a counselling session — in Coimbatore, for Chennai students or online from anywhere in India. We will help you understand your options and next steps.

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