Study in New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand for Indian Students
For Indian students, studying in New Zealand is an excellent opportunity to get a future-focused education. Without any doubt, New Zealand is one of the best destinations for study abroad aspirants. The country’s internationally recognized education system and superior lifestyle give international students the ultimate boost to study in New Zealand and become part of its global workforce.
With globally ranked universities and a high-quality education system, studying in New Zealand offers Indian students a personalized learning experience, promising opportunities, rich culture, dynamic economy, and a fantastic climate where they can thrive and achieve academic excellence.
The qualifications gained in New Zealand are highly respected and recognized globally by leading employers and education providers. After completing your course, you can also apply for a Post-study work visa, depending on your qualifications and other eligibility requirements.
Top Reasons to Study in New Zealand
- Globally Recognized Universities
Universities in New Zealand enjoy wide recognition and global acceptance. Courses and education programs in New Zealand are of top-notch quality and highly respected by employers worldwide. - Lower Tuition Fees & Expenses
Studying in New Zealand is ideal for Indian students due to its affordable living cost and lower tuition fee. Students can easily find cheap accommodations, reasonably priced public transportation, and access to other necessities without being financially burdened. - Minimal Entry Requirements
The process of getting admission into New Zealand universities is not too complicated. Several programs and courses have minimal eligibility requirements. Also, there isn’t much fierce competition among prospective candidates to enter the best universities in New Zealand. There is no age bar, and even students with moderate marks or grades can easily take admission into the most demanding courses.
Top Universities/Colleges in New Zealand
Universities in New Zealand enjoy worldwide recognition and offer a wide range of study options to students seeking career advancement. Do you know that most top colleges in New Zealand rank within the world’s top 500 universities? Universities in New Zealand help students develop soft skills, analytical skills, and communication skills that give an edge to their overall personality.
What makes universities in New Zealand the top choice among students?
- New Zealand is home to top eight world-class universities, ranking top 500 in the global sphere.
- In these universities, you will find the best course to study in New Zealand depending upon your personal and professional goals. The subjects offered by these colleges also rank high in the world.
- Chances for employment are quite high for New Zealand graduates. Most end up getting degree-level jobs and have exceptionally high levels of employability that enriches their future.
- Universities in New Zealand have multi-layered quality assurance systems in place to ensure that every student gets a high-standard of education.
- The unbeatable and unmatchable education experience in New Zealand is one of the primary reasons why so many international students choose to study here.
- New Zealand was also the first country to introduce a well-being strategy for students.
- Out of 163 countries, New Zealand ranks the second most peaceful nations in the world. The country also ranks 22nd for global innovation.
Top universities in New Zealand
Here’s the list of top universities in New Zealand:
- University of Auckland
- Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
- University of Waikato
- Massey University
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- University of Otago
Top Courses in New Zealand
New Zealand is a leading destination in the world for students who wish to study the following subjects/courses/programs:
- Animation
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Business Studies
- Engineering Forestry
- Hospitality
- IT and Computer Science
- Agriculture
- Art and design
- Nursing
- Trades
- Business management
- Health care
- Sports management
Career Opportunities in New Zealand
With its high-quality of life, exemplary education, and plenty of job opportunities, international students must consider working and living in New Zealand.
The Kiwis are quite passionate about having a good work-life balance. While they are hardworking people, they also love to relax and enjoy their free time.
The number of job opportunities are skyrocketing in New Zealand. The government is also working proactively to attract skilled workers from different parts of the world to address labor shortages in the country. The demand for labors is a sign of good job prospects for foreign nationals in New Zealand.
Job Opportunities in New Zealand
Currently, there are several job vacancies in sectors such as engineering, IT and medicine. However, there are also job openings in other professions, including human resource, manufacturing, logistics, trade sector, engineering, and community services.
New Zealand is home to many small and medium-sized companies. Companies such as IBM, New Zealand Air, and Education Institutions are considered to be the leading employers for international students.
Please refer to the following list to learn about the most in-demand jobs in New Zealand:
- accountant
- arborist
- baker
- building inspector
- construction project manager
- midwife
- nurse
- outdoor adventure guide
- snow sport instructor
- stonemason
- university lecturer
Long-term skills shortages occur in the following industries:
- construction
- engineering
- finance
- health and social services
- hospitality and tourism
- ICT, electronics and telecommunications
- science
- Trades.
Popular jobs for international graduates:
- Agriculture
- Construction
- Financial services
- Manufacturing
- Real estate services
- Tourism
Cost of studying in New Zealand
Tuition fee
Tuition fee will be your major expenditure which depends on your qualification, course duration, and the college you opt for. Generally, the tuition fees in New Zealand will be around NZ$ 22,000 and NZ$35,000 a year. The fee is generally less for courses such as humanities, arts, and education, while medicine and engineering courses are likely to be expensive.
The tuition fee for postgraduate courses are higher as your course determines the actual cost of your postgraduate degree program. MBA programs cost more in New Zealand university fees with an average cost ranging between NZ$31,000-50,000.
Program | Annual Cost |
Undergraduate degree | $20,500 – $25,000 |
Master’s degree | $19,000 – $29,000 |
Doctoral degree | $6,500 – $9,000 |
MBA | $31,000 – $50, 000 |
Cost of Accommodation
Depending on their budget and interest, international students in New Zealand may opt for an on-campus (halls of residence) or off-campus accommodation. Living as a resident on-campus is quite affordable. However, students must apply for it in a separate application. The on-campus option may cost you around NZD 215-NZD 555 per week depending on your type of accommodation and city.
An off-campus residence is another popular option among overseas students. Here, they can share an apartment with someone or live with a family. Living in an apartment may cost you around NZ$120.
Scholarship Options for International Students in New Zealand
Having a good scholarship option on board can make your study experience in New Zealand an affordable one. Indian students can apply for a range of scholarships offered by New Zealand universities and colleges while submitting their visa application. These scholarships are open to every students and thus help them fund their studies well. The scholarships can either be partially or fully paid, depending on your course and college. Some of the fully-funded scholarships in New Zealand are provided by the government, while some are offered by private institutions.
We advise students to check the eligibility requirements process for applying and the last date of application.
Scholarships for Indian students to study in New Zealand
Students with good academic backgrounds and scores have higher chances of receiving scholarships. But apart from merit, the scholarship also depends on your subject, college, and student-specific grants. Some students may also take advantage of extracurricular hobbies and volunteer while applying for a scholarship.
To what extent a scholarship covers your education cost?
This varies from college to college; some universities promise to wave off 50% of the tuition fee, while some give 100% fee relaxation. Students may experience high competition for the government as compared to university scholarships. So, we encourage students to apply for the scholarship 8-12 months before their intake period.
Popular scholarship programs for Indian students:
- New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
- New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
- New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
- NZ-GRADS New Zealand Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarship
- SEG Scholarship
- Palmerston North City Mayor’s Goodwill Ambassador Scholarship
Student Visa Application Procedure in New Zealand
International Students planning to study in New Zealand for more than six months must apply for a valid student visa. Below is a list of different types of student visas available in New Zealand:
- Fee-Paying Student Visa- allows you to study in New Zealand for four years and work part-time.
- Exchange Student Visa- overseas students can study for up to four years for an approved student exchange program.
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa– study full-time in New Zealand from three months to four years.
- Pathway Student Visa- study up to three consecutive programs of study with approved education providers on a single visa.
Indian students mostly prefer to go with a Fee-Paying Student Visa.
Education Model in New Zealand
You’d be surprised to know that the education system in New Zealand reflects the country’s unique society, culture, and values towards producing the leaders of tomorrow.
New Zealand’s education model is student-centric, offering continuous progression and outstanding education. The education system has three levels:
Early childhood education- from birth to school entry age. Early Childhood Education (ECE) isn’t mandatory in New Zealand, although around 96.8% of children go for ECE.
Primary and secondary education- this is the second level of education. Education is free between the ages of 5 and 19 at government-funded schools for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents.
Further education- It includes higher and vocational education. The highest level of education is governed to ensure that students get excellent, recognized, and meaningful qualifications.
Students in New Zealand attain university education to undertake a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Top universities in New Zealand also offer postgraduate courses, including certificates, postgraduate diplomas, master and doctoral programs.
Vocational training courses are generally provided in government-funded institutions, including TAFE (Technical and Further Education) or other private institutions.
Essential documents required for a student visa:
Below is a list of documents you will need as part of the New Zealand student visa process:
- Copy of an offer letter from a New Zealand-based university
- Documents showcasing you can financially support yourself
- Copy of a valid passport.
- Passport-sized photographs
- Medical reports and police clearance certificate
- English language test results
- Fee payment receipts
- A written document from an institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions
How should we apply to study in New Zealand?
- Start by choosing the right course and university for you.
- Prepare to apply by researching your options well. You may compare various courses and programs, learn about scholarship programs, visa cost, and fee structure.
- Collect all your documents
- Make sure you meet the language requirements
- Check the application deadline
What can be the cost of studying in New Zealand?
Are any scholarships available for international students in New Zealand?
Can we work while we study in New Zealand?
Can international students apply for permanent residence?
Is a study permit required for short courses?
What are the processing times for a study permit?
How can I apply for scholarships in New Zealand?
Step 1: Learn which scholarship program you qualify for?
Step 2: Check the documents you need
Step 3: Contact referees early
Step 4: certify all your documents
Step 5: Prepare your application and apply
What are the minimum qualifications and requirements to study in New Zealand?
Do I Need Health Insurance to Study in New Zealand?

