Affordable & Cheapest Universities in New Zealand for International Students 2025

Do you know that over 69,000 international students choose New Zealand each year, not just for its stunning landscapes that inspired The Lord of the Rings but also for its affordable education? Some of the cheapest universities in New Zealand offer world-class education at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries, making it an ideal choice for you.

This guide will show you the best options available for affordable colleges, budget-friendly MBA programs, or low-cost courses in New Zealand.

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Top 8 Cheapest Universities in New Zealand for International Students

Do you know that New Zealand’s education strategy for 2018–2030 prioritises providing an outstanding experience for international students? Choosing to study there means you’re making a well-supported decision.

What’s more? The cheapest universities in New Zealand offer two primary intakes, providing you with greater flexibility in choosing when to begin your studies. The Winter intake starts in January, while the Spring intake begins in June. 

Many Indian students like you opt for the Spring session as it aligns well with the end of the academic year, giving you time to prepare for the transition

Check out the top 8 cheapest universities in New Zealand.

Here’s a more comprehensive look into the universities mentioned above. 

1. University of Auckland

The University of Auckland, established in 1883, is New Zealand’s most prominent university. It has over 40,000 students, including 7,000 international students from 120+ countries. 

Located in Auckland, a top global city for quality of living, the university offers five campuses in the heart of the country’s economic and cultural hub.

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2. University of Otago

The University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university, established in 1869. With a population of over 21,000 students, it boasts high levels of student satisfaction and produces globally employable graduates. 95% of students enter directly into further study or work.

Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across different divisions.

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3. University of Waikato

Established in 1964, the University of Waikato has two campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, and it enrols over 12,500 students. 

Known for its globally recognised Waikato Management School and pioneering AI research, the university offers a unique focus on Māori and Indigenous Studies.

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4. Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington, established in 1897, is home to 22,000 students, including over 3,000 international students from 100+ countries. 

The university offers nearly 200 programs and hosts over 40 research centres. It is a leader in research and global education.

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5. Massey University

Established in 1927, Massey University is home to over 5,000 international students from 100+ countries. It’s renowned for its flexible, world-class online education and research and for offering internationally recognised qualifications. 

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6. University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury (UC), established in 1873, offers a distinctive educational experience in Christchurch, New Zealand. 

Known for its strong research focus and commitment to Māori values, UC has an inclusive, collaborative learning environment. Its 140,000+ alumni worldwide are part of a great community driving positive change. 

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7. Lincoln University

Lincoln University, established in 1878, is New Zealand’s only specialised land-based university. It focuses on agriculture, viticulture, environmental studies, and more. 

With students from over 80 countries and a low student-to-lecturer ratio, Lincoln offers personalised education and practical, applied learning experiences, including field trips. 

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8. Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is the second largest university in New Zealand, with students from 140 different countries, highlighting its diverse student community. It has more than 5,000 industry partners around the world, making it one of the top universities in terms of employability.

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Cost of Living in New Zealand

Do you know the cost of living in New Zealand is 15.1% lower than in the United States?  The cost of living in New Zealand is INR 86.5K (NZD 1.7K) per month without rent. 

Living costs in New Zealand vary depending on lifestyle and location. Due to lower housing and transport expenses, living in smaller towns can be more affordable than in big cities. 

Here is an annual estimate of living expenses provided by the most prestigious universities in New Zealand.

Here’s a breakdown of essential expenses to help you budget better.  

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Cheapest Cities in New Zealand

Researching and comparing living costs across different cities is essential to make an informed decision about where to study in New Zealand, as the cost of living can vary considerably between cities. 

Here are the average costs of living in some popular cities in New Zealand.

Scholarships to Manage Costs while Studying in New Zealand 

Though tuition fees at New Zealand’s universities are relatively affordable, cities like Auckland can still be a bit pricey regarding living expenses. But don’t worry; you’ve got plenty of scholarship options! 

Here are some of the top scholarships.

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Tips to Save Costs in New Zealand

You can save costs while studying in New Zealand in several ways. Want to know how? 

Here are some tips to help you effectively manage and reduce your overall cost of studying in New Zealand. 

1. Part-Time Work

Did you know you can reduce the cost of studying in New Zealand by working? Check out these details.

Here are some of the top-paying part-time jobs.

2. Accommodation Hacks

By now, you know that rent soars up the monthly living cost in New Zealand. If you’re seeking budget accommodation in New Zealand, you should consider on-campus residence facilities offered by many universities for international students. But you should apply well in advance to secure a spot.

Here are some different types of accommodation and their weekly costs.

New Zealand stands out as a prime destination for affordable yet high-quality education, offering several budget-friendly options for international students like you. With a variety of scholarships and part-time work opportunities, the cheapest universities in New Zealand provide a great balance of education and affordability. 

Frequently Asked Questions