“If you have dreams you want to pursue, the time is now. There is no perfect time, and there is no better time. There is only the time you lose while you’re making excuses.”
– An American Writer: Holly Lisle
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If you’ve ever dreamed of studying at top universities in New Zealand, now is the time to take the most crucial step toward realising that dream. The best part is that you’re not alone in this journey. In the last 5 years, New Zealand has granted 41,784 student visas to Indian students.
What’s more? According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, all 8 of New Zealand’s top universities for international students are ranked within the top 500 universities globally.
In fact, whether you aspire to pursue a master’s degree in engineering or medicine, attending renowned universities like the University of Auckland or the University of Otago will open doors to lucrative career opportunities.
Feeling confident about your decision to study in New Zealand? If so, this guide will offer you everything you need to know about the cost of studying in New Zealand in 2024, covering New Zealand master’s fees, accommodation, transportation, food, and other miscellaneous costs.
Additionally, this article has been exclusively crafted to offer you practical tips on effectively managing your budget and maximising your experience in this scenic country. Dive in for details!
Key Highlights
Here’s a snapshot of all the details you will learn about the cost of studying in New Zealand as an Indian student.
| Particulars | Details |
| Cost of Education in New Zealand | Bachelor Fees: INR 10L to INR 20L (NZD 20K to NZD 40K) per year New Zealand Master’s Fees: INR 10L to INR 23L (NZD 20K to NZD 45K) per year |
| Cheapest University in New Zealand | University of Otago Massey University Auckland University of Technology |
| Cost of Living in New Zealand Per Month | INR 84K (NZD 1,671) |
| Student Visa Fee Cost in New Zealand | INR 19K (NZD 375) |
| Top Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Studying in New Zealand | New Zealand Excellence Awards University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships University of Otago International Master’s Scholarship |
| Average Salary in New Zealand | INR 49L (NZD 97,300) |
Why Choose New Zealand?
Did you know that in 2024, the New Zealand government allocated nearly INR 159 billion (NZD 2.9 billion) in its budget to enhance the country’s education sector?
Does this inspire you enough to study in New Zealand? Well, if not, you must know that the University of Auckland secured #1 in New Zealand and #68 worldwide in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2023.
The university achieved this ranking by competing against over 6,000 prestigious universities worldwide. Now you can imagine how high your chances can be to secure lucrative career opportunities with a degree from this esteemed institution.
Need more reasons? Here is why New Zealand could be a perfect fit for your study abroad destination.
- Excellent Education System: New Zealand provides an excellent education system that is recognised worldwide. The University of Auckland ranks at 65th place in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Additionally, it achieved a joint 150th position in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
The university excels in various disciplines, with top 50 rankings in subjects including Marketing, Education, Archaeology, Psychology, Engineering (Civil), and Linguistics, to name a few, in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2024.
- Safe and Welcoming Place: New Zealand is recognised as the 4th safest country globally, with a very low overall crime rate and infrequent incidents of violent crime. This peaceful and secure environment creates an ideal setting for you to focus wholeheartedly on your academic pursuits.
- Affordable Cost of Studying: Compared to other popular study destinations such as the US and UK, the cost of studying in New Zealand is considered relatively affordable for Indian students.
The average cost of education in New Zealand ranges between INR 11L and INR 17.6L (NZD 22K and NZD 35K) per year, while that in the UK is between INR 9.5L and INR 31L (£9K and £30K) per year.
- High Chances of Getting a Job: As per the Labour Market Statistics, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in New Zealand for the March 2024 quarter was 4.3%. On the other hand, according to CMIE’s Consumer Pyramids Household Survey, the unemployment rate in India rose to 8.1% in April 2024.
With a strong emphasis on innovation and technology, there is no scarcity of jobs in New Zealand for Indian students to pursue their dream careers.
- Scholarship Opportunities: New Zealand offers various scholarships for Indian students to help them fund their education and living expenses. One such scholarship is the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA).
NZEA is a collaborative effort between Education New Zealand and New Zealand’s 8 prestigious universities, all ranked within the top 3% globally according to the QS World Rankings 2025.
Cost of Study in New Zealand for Indian Students: Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are crucial when estimating the total cost of studying in New Zealand. The fees are influenced significantly by the type of university, the choice of course, and how long you study. On average, you will need between INR 11L and INR 17.6L (NZD 22K and NZD 35K) per year to cover tuition fees in New Zealand.
The best part is New Zealand offers various qualifications, from short-term English language courses to postgraduate degrees. Its flexible education system ensures study options are available to suit every budget.
Here is an example to demonstrate the same.
| Particulars | Details |
| General English Course | INR 17K (NZD 350) per week |
| Cambridge English Exam Course | INR 2.5L (NZD 5,100) for a 12-week duration |
Read on to find out the bachelors and masters in New Zealand cost for Indian students.
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Tuition Fees for Undergraduate Programs
In New Zealand, tuition fees for a bachelor’s degree range from approximately INR 10L to INR 20L (NZD 20K to NZD 40K) annually. Higher fees are associated with specialised subjects like medicine and veterinary science. Many bachelor’s degrees can be completed within three years.
Please note: Some universities may also charge administration and student services fees. For instance, at the University of Auckland, students are charged INR 50K (NZD 1,005) for these additional costs.
Here are the details of several popular bachelor’s courses and their tuition fees for international students in New Zealand.
| Popular Courses | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Civil Engineering | INR 24L to INR 30L (NZD 49K to NZD 60K) |
| Architecture | INR 21L to INR 26L (NZD 42K to NZD 53K) |
| Nursing | INR 17L to INR 22L (NZD 35K to NZD 45K) |
| Medicine | Year 1: INR 19L to INR 26L (NZD 39K to NZD 53K) Year 2 onwards: INR 39L to INR 45L (NZD 77K to NZD 90K) |
| Law | INR 19L to INR 26L (NZD 39K to NZD 53K) |
Masters in New Zealand Cost
If you wish to study at the postgraduate level in New Zealand, tuition fees are generally higher compared to undergraduate studies. The fees would range from about INR 10L to INR 23L (NZD 20K to NZD 45K) annually, with higher fees applying to specialised subjects such as medicine and MBA. For instance, the average cost of an MBA program would be from INR 15L to INR 25L (NZD 31K to NZD 50K).
Here are the details of New Zealand master’s fees for international students.
| Popular Courses | Annual Tuition Fees |
| MBA | INR 15L to INR 25L (NZD 31K to NZD 50K) |
| Engineering | INR 22L to INR 27L (NZD 45K to NZD 55K) |
| Fine Arts | INR 23L to INR 30L (NZD 47K to NZD 60K) |
| Teaching | INR 17L to INR 22L (NZD 35K to NZD 45K) |
| Medical and Health Sciences | INR 26L to INR 43L (NZD 52K to NZD 86K) |
Please note: These figures are only indicative and will vary from university to university.
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Top 5 Cheapest University in New Zealand for Indian Students
Are you looking for universities in New Zealand with lower tuition fees? Did you know that multiple affordable fee universities in New Zealand are not only top-ranked but also offer quality education with globally recognised degrees?
For instance, the University of Waikato ranked 235th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, is known for its comparatively affordable tuition costs, both within New Zealand and globally.
However, it is essential to note that different universities may have varying tuition fee structures, so exploring your options thoroughly is key to finding the cheapest university in New Zealand.
Curious to know about the New Zealand university fees? Here are the top 5 most affordable universities in New Zealand for international students, along with their average annual costs.
| Cheapest University in New Zealand | Average Annual Tuition Fees | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
| University of Otago | INR 15L to INR 22L (NZD 30K to NZD 45K) | 214 |
| The University of Waikato | INR 12L to INR 27L (NZD 25K to NZD 55K) | 235 |
| Massey University | INR 11L to INR 27L (NZD 23K to NZD 55K) | 239 |
| Lincoln University | INR 15L to INR 25L (NZD 30K to NZD 50K) | 371 |
| Auckland University of Technology | INR 16L to INR 25L (NZD 33K to NZD 50K) | 412 |
Cost of Living in New Zealand
The cost of studying in New Zealand goes beyond tuition fees to include crucial expenses like accommodation. Accommodation costs in New Zealand are significant for you when planning your stay.
That said, 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.
| University | Living Expenses Per Year |
| University of Auckland and Victoria University of Wellington | INR 10L to INR 13.5L (NZD 20K to NZD 27K) |
| The University of Otago | INR 9L to INR 10.5L (NZD 18K to NZD 21K) |
Accommodation Cost in New Zealand
As mentioned earlier, when considering living in New Zealand, it’s crucial to understand that the cost of living can vary considerably between cities. For instance, Wellington has higher monthly rent compared to cities like Hamilton, which offer a more affordable cost of living.
Hence, researching and comparing living costs across different cities is essential to make an informed decision about where to study in New Zealand.
Here are the average costs of living in some popular cities in New Zealand.
| Cities | Average Rent Per Month (1 Bedroom in City Centre) |
| Hamilton | INR 1L (NZD 1,998) |
| Auckland | INR 1L (NZD 2,000) |
| Wellington | INR 1.2L (NZD 2,500) |
Cost of Living in New Zealand vs USA, UK and Australia
Did you know that the cost of living, including rent, in New Zealand is approximately 19.2% lower than in the United States on average? This makes New Zealand a relatively more affordable option for international students.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in New Zealand compared to the USA, UK, and Australia.
| Country | Monthly Cost of Living (Excluding Rent) |
| New Zealand | INR 84K (NZD 1,671) |
| USA | INR 97K ($1,165) |
| UK | INR 86K (£811.5) |
| Australia | INR 92K ($1,660) |
Student Visa Cost
Did you know that when applying for a student visa, you must demonstrate that you have at least INR 10L (NZD 20,000) to support your living expenses for the first year of study? The required amount may be less for shorter durations of study.
To study in New Zealand, the initial step is obtaining a valid student visa, which costs approximately INR 19K (NZD 375). The visa is processed in 8 weeks, and the length of stay can be up to 4 years.
Undoubtedly, the student visa also contributes to the overall cost of studying in New Zealand. Find more information on the visa application process by reading this blog on New Zealand Student Visa 2024.
Cost of Health Insurance
All international students travelling to New Zealand must obtain medical insurance before starting their program. Many New Zealand universities offer comprehensive health insurance plans for international students, which remain valid for the duration of their program and expire upon completion.
For example, Massey University provides an insurance plan called StudentSafe insurance, which includes coverage for healthcare and travel to and from the country. The cost of the insurance for 1 academic year is INR 41K (NZD 810).
StudentSafe medical insurance covers everyday healthcare expenses such as doctor visits and prescriptions. Additionally, it provides coverage for costs related to serious accidents or illnesses in New Zealand and plane tickets if you or a family member overseas experiences a critical illness.
However, some colleges may not provide insurance, requiring you to arrange private medical insurance. The average cost for medical insurance ranges between INR 10K to INR 35K (NZD 200 and NZD 700) per year.
Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Studying in New Zealand
Have you heard that Goal 1 of the New Zealand International Education Strategy 2018–2030 aims to provide an outstanding education and student experience, prioritising a safe and welcoming environment for international students?
If you’re considering studying here but are scared of the cost of studying in New Zealand, fret not!
International students can apply for scholarships to reduce the financial costs of living. The New Zealand government, universities, and private organisations offer these scholarships. All these cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other essential living expenses.
Here is a list of the top New Zealand scholarships that can help you reduce the cost of studying in New Zealand.
| Scholarship Programme | Offered By | Benefits |
| New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) | New Zealand Government | Value of up to NZD 10K (INR 5L) |
| University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships | The University of Auckland | Up to NZD 10K (INR 5L) towards compulsory tuition fees |
| University of Otago International Master’s Scholarship | The University of Otago | Stipend: NZD 18K (INR 9.1L) per annum Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers 1 year, capped at the domestic rate |
How to Reduce the Cost of Studying in New Zealand for Indian Students?
Want to know the tips to reduce the cost of studying in New Zealand beyond scholarships? This section has got you covered.
New Zealand welcomes international students with the essence of Manaakitanga — a Māori concept of hospitality and care for others.
Living as an Indian student in New Zealand generally provides comfort, especially with affordable expenses like accommodation and food, even in major cities such as Auckland. However, the overall cost of study in New Zealand for Indian students can vary based on lifestyle, and seemingly small expenses can add up quickly.
Here are some tips to help you effectively manage and reduce your overall cost of studying in New Zealand.
- Part-Time Work
Did you know you can reduce the cost of studying in New Zealand by working? Student visas allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Here are some top part-time jobs in New Zealand for international students, along with their average salaries.
| Job Title | Average Salary (Per Hour) |
| Call Centre Worker | INR 1,050 (NZD 21) |
| Cook | INR 1,115 (NZD 22) |
| Retail Sales Assistant | INR 1,115 (NZD 22) |
The adult minimum wage in New Zealand is INR 1,115 (NZD 22) per hour.
- Accommodation Hacks
If you’re seeking budget accommodation in New Zealand, many universities offer on-campus residence facilities known as Halls of Residence for international students. Living on campus is often very affordable, but it’s important to apply well in advance to secure a spot.
Here is a table highlighting different types of accommodation and their weekly costs.
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Costs |
| Hall of Residence | INR 10K to INR 28K (NZD 210 to NZD 555) |
| Hostels | INR 7K to INR 10K (NZD 140 to NZD 210) |
| Shared Rental | INR 6K (NZD 120) |
- Look for Free Activities
New Zealand has beautiful natural scenery and vibrant communities. Enjoy free things to do, such as hiking, swimming at public beaches, or attending cultural events that cost nothing.
Top 5 High-Paying Jobs That Quickly Recover Your Initial Investment in Education
Whether you’re looking for roles in technology, healthcare, education, or any other sector, New Zealand offers a diverse range of job opportunities. This diversity ensures you can find employment matching your interests and qualifications.
Furthermore, New Zealand is renowned globally for its exceptional work-life balance. According to a study by global employment company Remote, New Zealand ranked as the top country regarding quality of life and work-life balance among the top 60 GDP countries.
Here is a list of the top-paying jobs with their average annual salary in New Zealand.
| Top 5 High Paying Jobs | Average Yearly Salary |
| Software Engineer | INR 45L to INR 55L (NZD 90,000 to NZD 110,000) |
| Physician | INR 55L to INR 71L (NZD 110,000 to NZD 140,000) |
| Surgeon | INR 71L to INR 86L (NZD 110,000 to NZD 170,000) |
| Information Technology Manager | INR 55L to INR 60L (NZD 110,000 to NZD 120,000) |
| Anaesthesiologist | INR 1.2Cr to INR 1.3Cr (NZD 250,000 to NZD 270,000) |
Please note: The average salary in New Zealand will vary depending on your skill set and experience.
List of Top Recruitment Companies
Did you know: Nearly half of the 40,000 new jobs created in New Zealand each year are expected to be in sectors such as Accommodation and Food Services, Business Services, Construction, and Retail Trade.
Interesting to know about the top companies in New Zealand actively seeking new talent. Have a look.
- ANZ
- Deloitte
- EY
- ASB Bank
- Genesis
Final Thoughts
Studying in New Zealand provides a top-notch education at a more affordable cost compared to other study-abroad destinations like the USA and UK. By learning about the cost of studying in New Zealand and checking out available scholarships, you can wisely choose and enjoy a rewarding educational experience in New Zealand.
The best part? The return on investment (ROI) for education at the top universities, such as the University of Auckland and the University of Otago in New Zealand, is outstanding. Moreover, with great post-study work options, you can further manage your living expenses effectively.
Read Next: Top 8 Universities in New Zealand
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Is New Zealand expensive to study?
Ans. Studying in New Zealand can be considered affordable compared to other popular study destinations like the USA and UK. While tuition fees and living costs vary depending on the city and lifestyle, New Zealand offers quality education at affordable cost for international students. That said, budgeting carefully and exploring scholarship opportunities to manage costs effectively is essential.
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Q. What are New Zealand university fees for Indian students?
Ans. New Zealand university fees vary based on the specific university, program of study, and whether the student is pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies. That said, the cost of education in New Zealand at these top universities is as follows.
– The University of Otago: INR 15L to INR 22L (NZD 30K to NZD 45K) per year
– Auckland University of Technology: INR 16L to INR 25L (NZD 33K to NZD 50K) per year
– Massey University: INR 11L to INR 27L (NZD 23K to NZD 55K) -
Q. What are tuition fees in New Zealand for international students?
Ans. On average, international students can expect to pay the following tuition fees in New Zealand.
– For Bachelor’s degrees: INR 10L to INR 20L per year (NZD 20,000 to NZD 40,000)
– For Master’s degrees: INR 10L to INR 23L per year (NZD 20,000 to NZD 45,000) -
Q. Is it cheaper to study in New Zealand or Australia?
Ans. The cost of studying in New Zealand or Australia can vary depending on the university, location, and specific course of study. Generally, New Zealand may offer slightly lower tuition fees and living costs compared to Australia.
On average, you will need between INR 11L and INR 17.6L (NZD 22K and NZD 35K) per year to cover tuition fees in New Zealand. However, the cost of studying in Australia would vary between INR 12L and INR 27L (NZD 22,000 and NZD 50,000) per year. -
Q. Is IELTS mandatory for New Zealand?
Ans. Yes, for most international students applying to study in New Zealand, proving English language proficiency is mandatory. Generally, to study at a postgraduate level in New Zealand, you typically need to achieve a minimum overall score of 6.5 in the IELTS exam, with no individual band score less than 6.0.
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Q. Is it cheaper to study in Canada or New Zealand?
Ans. The cost of studying in New Zealand is a bit higher than in Canada. However, with its high-quality education system, safe environment, and excellent post-study work opportunities, New Zealand provides a high-quality educational experience that makes it worth considering despite its higher cost.
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Q. Is New Zealand good for Indian students?
Ans. Yes, Indian students highly regard New Zealand due to its quality education, safe environment, and affordable study options. The country also offers excellent post-study work opportunities, making it a favourable destination for pursuing higher education.
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Q. How much is rent in New Zealand per month?
Ans. Rent in New Zealand varies significantly depending on the city or town, type of accommodation, and whether it is shared or private. The monthly rent in New Zealand is INR 84K approximately (NZD 1,671). However, it is important to research specific locations and accommodation options to get a more accurate estimate.
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Q. How many hours can a student work in New Zealand?
Ans. International students studying in New Zealand can typically work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays. Common part-time job opportunities for students include roles such as chef, call centre assistant, or retail sales assistant.
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Q. What are the benefits of studying in New Zealand?
Ans. Studying in New Zealand offers the right mix of high-quality education and a safe environment. The country’s universities provide diverse study options across various fields, including but not limited to law, engineering and medicine. Additionally, students can enjoy New Zealand’s breathtaking natural landscapes, enhancing their overall educational journey.
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Q. Which job is in high demand in New Zealand?
Ans. Some of the top-paying jobs with their average annual salary in New Zealand are as follows.
1. Software Engineer: INR 45L to INR 55L (NZD 90,000 to NZD 110,000)
2. Physician: INR 55L to INR 71L (NZD 110,000 to NZD 140,000)
3. Anaesthesiologist: INR 1.2Cr to INR 1.3Cr (NZD 250,000 to NZD 270,000) -
Q. Do international students need to purchase health insurance in New Zealand?
Ans. Yes, international students studying in New Zealand are required to have appropriate health insurance coverage. This ensures they can access healthcare services during their stay. The average cost for medical insurance typically ranges between INR 10K to INR 35K (NZD 200 and NZD 700) per year.
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