With its world-class universities, high academic standards, and welcoming atmosphere, New Zealand has become one of the most sought-after study destinations for Indian students. The cost of studying in New Zealand may seem higher at first glance, but its globally recognised degrees, safe environment, and exceptional quality of life make it a truly worthwhile investment for your future.
In 2026, the total cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students ranges between INR 17.5 lakh – 29 lakh per year, covering tuition, living, and visa expenses (Times of India). This guide provides a complete breakdown of tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, visa fees, and tips to manage your budget effectively.
Cost of Studying in New Zealand at the Top 10 Universities for Indian Students
Choosing the right university is key to balancing quality education and cost. According to QS World University Rankings 2026, New Zealand universities consistently rank among the top 30% globally, ensuring high-quality programs for Indian students.
Below mentioned table explains the tuition Fees of the Top Universities in New Zealand for Indian Students:
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| University | QS World Rank 2026 | Tuition Fees (NZD) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Auckland | 65 | 35,000 – 55,000 | ₹17.5L – ₹27.5L |
| University of Otago | 197 | 25,000 – 40,000 | ₹12.5L – ₹20L |
| Massey University | 230 | 30,000 – 45,000 | ₹15L – ₹22.5L |
| Victoria University of Wellington | 244 | 28,000 – 42,000 | ₹14L – ₹21L |
| University of Canterbury | 261 | 26,000 – 38,000 | ₹13L – ₹19L |
| Auckland University of Technology (AUT) | 412 | 32,000 – 50,000 | ₹16L – ₹25L |
| Lincoln University | 371 | 18,000 – 30,000 | ₹9L – ₹15L |
| Waikato University | 230 | 30,000 – 45,000 | ₹15L – ₹22.5L |
| Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) | 500+ | 20,000 – 35,000 | ₹10L – ₹17.5L |
| Unitec Institute of Technology | 550+ | 22,000 – 38,000 | ₹11L – ₹19L |
The University of Auckland is the top choice for Indian students due to its reputation and programs. Institutions like AUT, Massey, Waikato, SIT, and Unitec offer cost-effective options. Private colleges may have higher fees. Tuition fees only cover education; living costs, pre-arrival expenses, and visa fees are additional.
Program-Wise Cost of Studying in New Zealand for Indian Students
Program choice significantly affects tuition fees. Undergraduate programs are slightly less expensive than postgraduate programs, while PhDs and diplomas vary widely depending on the field of study.
| Program | Tuition Fees (NZD) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 20,000 – 30,000 | ₹10L – ₹15L |
| Master’s | 22,000 – 35,000 | ₹11L – ₹17.5L |
| Doctoral (PhD) | 18,000 – 28,000 | ₹9L – ₹14L |
| Diploma / Certificate | 15,000 – 25,000 | ₹7.5L – ₹12.5L |
Indian students choosing Master’s programs should budget for higher tuition. Diplomas and certificates are often more affordable but may have limited post-study work opportunities. Program fees are included in the total cost to study in New Zealand from India.
Living Expenses for Indian Students in New Zealand
The average cost of living in New Zealand depends on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation type. On average, Indian students spend NZD 20,000 - 25,000 annually (₹10L – ₹12.5L).
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (NZD) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | 200 – 350 | ₹10,000 – ₹17,500 |
| Groceries | 100 – 150 | ₹5,000 – ₹7,500 |
| Transport | 25 – 50 | ₹1,250 – ₹2,500 |
| Utilities | 20 – 40 | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Internet | 8 – 12 | ₹400 – ₹600 |
| Entertainment & Miscellaneous | 50 – 100 | ₹2,500 – ₹5,000 |
Rent is the largest expense; sharing accommodation can reduce costs. Cooking at home and using public transport can significantly lower living expenses. This table forms a major part of the New Zealand study cost for Indian students.
Pre-Arrival Costs for Studying in New Zealand for Indian Students
Indian students must plan for a visa, flights, and health insurance. These costs are one-time but essential.
| Cost Category | Cost (NZD) | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Tickets (India-NZ) | 800 – 1,200 | ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 |
| Student Visa (Fee Paying) | 330 – 400 | ₹16,500 – ₹20,000 |
| Health Insurance | 700 – 1,000 | ₹35,000 – ₹50,000 |
Visa fees vary based on application type; Indian students need to include the student visa New Zealand cost in their budget. Health insurance ensures coverage for medical emergencies in New Zealand.
Scholarships for Indian Students in New Zealand in 2026
New Zealand Scholarship for Indians can significantly reduce tuition and living expenses, making New Zealand more affordable for Indian students.
| Scholarship | Coverage | Amount (NZD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship | Fully funded | Tuition + Living + Airfare | ₹Varies |
| New Zealand Excellence Awards (India) | Postgraduate | Up to 320,000 | ₹1.6 Cr |
| University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship | Tuition waiver | Up to 10,000 | ₹5L |
| University of Otago International Research Master’s Scholarship | Tuition waiver + stipend | Tuition + 18,000 | ₹9L |
Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, or research potential. Indian students should apply early, as many scholarships have limited seats.
Tips to Manage Your Costs in New Zealand
Managing expenses while studying in New Zealand is crucial to make the most of your education without financial stress. Indian students can optimise their budget with strategic planning. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Shared Accommodation:
- Rent is often the largest monthly expense. Sharing an apartment or living in student hostels can reduce rent by up to 50%, especially in cities like Auckland and Wellington.
- Example: Renting a 2-bedroom apartment in Auckland can cost NZD 350 per week, but splitting it between two students reduces it to NZD 175 per week (₹8,750).
- Rent is often the largest monthly expense. Sharing an apartment or living in student hostels can reduce rent by up to 50%, especially in cities like Auckland and Wellington.
- Cook at Home:
- Dining out is expensive; preparing meals at home can save thousands monthly.
- Shopping at supermarkets like Countdown, Pak’nSave, and New World is cost-effective.
- Budget tip: Meal prepping can reduce grocery bills from NZD 150 to NZD 100 per month (₹5,000).
- Use Public Transport:
- Cities offer student discounts on buses, trains, and ferries.
- Example: In Auckland, a monthly public transport pass costs NZD 120 (₹6,000), much cheaper than owning a car.
- Some universities provide free shuttle services; check your campus offerings.
- Cities offer student discounts on buses, trains, and ferries.
- Take Advantage of Student Discounts:
- Stores, cinemas, gyms, and even software platforms offer student pricing. Always carry your student ID.
- Example: Apple, Microsoft, and Adobe offer student discounts of up to 20–30%.
- Stores, cinemas, gyms, and even software platforms offer student pricing. Always carry your student ID.
- Part-Time Jobs:
- Indian students on a student visa can work 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks.
- Jobs like retail assistant, barista, waiter, or campus assistant can earn NZD 22 – 30 per hour (₹1,100 – ₹1,500).
- Working part-time can cover living expenses or provide a buffer for unexpected costs.
- Budget Wisely:
- Track your expenses using apps like Pocketbook or Mint.
- Allocate funds for rent, food, transport, insurance, and personal needs.
- Keep an emergency fund of at least NZD 2,000 (₹1 lakh) for unexpected situations.
- Scholarships and Grants:
- Apply for university-specific and government scholarships. Many Indian students underestimate this opportunity.
- Even partial scholarships (NZD 5,000 – 10,000) can reduce tuition costs significantly.
By combining shared housing, home-cooked meals, public transport, part-time jobs, and scholarship support, Indian students can reduce the total cost of studying in New Zealand by 15–25% without compromising on lifestyle or academics.
Post-Study Work and Career Opportunities for Indians
Graduating from a New Zealand university not only provides a world-class education but also offers a strong return on investment for Indian students through high-paying jobs and valuable international work experience. New Zealand provides a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing graduates to gain professional experience and earn in globally competitive roles. The visa duration depends on the level of study:
Post-Study Work Visa Duration:
- Undergraduate & Master’s (Level 7 & 8) in NZ: 3 years
- Postgraduate (Level 9): 3 years
- Diploma & Certificate: 1-2 years
This period allows Indian students to build careers, repay study costs, and gain practical experience, making their education investment worthwhile.
High Salary Jobs for International Graduates
| Job Role | Average Salary (NZD/Year) | Average Salary (INR) | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | 80,000 – 120,000 | ₹40L – ₹60L | Xero, Datacom, Orion Health, Trade Me |
| Data Analyst / Data Scientist | 75,000 – 110,000 | ₹37.5L – ₹55L | Fonterra, Spark NZ, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare |
| Chartered Accountant / Finance Analyst | 70,000 – 100,000 | ₹35L – ₹50L | KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, EY |
| Registered Nurse / Healthcare Professional | 65,000 – 90,000 | ₹32.5L – ₹45L | Auckland District Health Board, Canterbury DHB |
| Civil / Mechanical Engineer | 70,000 – 105,000 | ₹35L – ₹52.5L | Fulton Hogan, Downer, Beca Group |
| Marketing Manager / Digital Marketing Specialist | 60,000 – 95,000 | ₹30L – ₹47.5L | Trade Me, Xero, Spark NZ |
| AI / Machine Learning Engineer | 85,000 – 130,000 | ₹42.5L – ₹65L | Rocket Lab, Datacom, Orion Health |
| Project Manager / Operations Manager | 75,000 – 110,000 | ₹37.5L – ₹55L | Fonterra, Auckland Council, Wellington City Council |
Insights:
- The tech and healthcare sectors offer the highest salaries for Indian graduates.
- Working in these industries can allow students to recoup tuition and living costs within 1-2 years.
- Post-study work experience also improves eligibility for New Zealand permanent residency, offering long-term career and settlement opportunities.
Tips for Career Growth:
- Network with alumni and professors for job leads.
- Attend career fairs and workshops organised by universities.
- Tailor your CV and LinkedIn profile for the New Zealand job market.
- Consider internships during study to improve employability and practical exposure.
Conclusion
Studying in New Zealand provides world-class education, cultural exposure, and strong career prospects. The cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students includes tuition, living, visa fees, and pre-arrival expenses, totalling approximately INR 17.5L – 29L per year.
Leap Scholar helps Indian students plan and manage every step, from university selection to visa application and scholarships. Our experts provide personalised guidance to ensure a smooth study abroad experience. Connect with Leap Scholar today to start your New Zealand study journey!
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)
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Is New Zealand costly than India?
Yes, the cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students is higher than in India. Tuition fees range from NZD 20,000 – 55,000 per year (~₹10L – ₹27.5L), and living expenses average NZD 20,000 – 25,000 per year (~₹10L – ₹12.5L). While it is costlier, the investment offers high-quality education, global exposure, and better career prospects.
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Can I get PR in New Zealand after study?
Yes, Indian students can apply for permanent residency (PR) in New Zealand after completing eligible programs (Level 7 or higher). Graduates can stay on a Post-Study Work Visa for up to 3 years and later apply under the Skilled Migrant Category if they meet the points and work experience requirements.
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Which is the cheapest country for study?
Some of the most affordable destinations for Indian students include Germany, France, Poland, and the Czech Republic. While New Zealand is more expensive, it provides excellent education quality and career opportunities. Comparing tuition, living costs, and visa expenses is key to finding the most cost-effective option.
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Is New Zealand good for Indian students?
Absolutely. New Zealand is ideal for Indian students due to its globally recognised degrees, safe environment, and multicultural society. Opportunities for part-time work, post-study work visas, and a clear pathway to PR make it a preferred destination for Indian students.
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Is $70,000 a good salary in New Zealand?
Yes, a salary of NZD 70,000 (~₹35L) per year is considered good for recent graduates. It comfortably covers living expenses and allows for savings. High-demand roles in IT, healthcare, and finance often pay even higher, making studying in New Zealand a worthwhile investment.
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Which course gives PR in New Zealand?
Courses that increase your chances of PR include:
- IT & Computer Science: Software Engineering, AI, Data Science.
- Healthcare: Nursing, Physiotherapy, Medicine.
- Engineering: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical.
- Construction & Trades: Architecture, Project Management.
- Business & Accounting: MBA, Finance, Accounting.Completing a Level 7 or higher qualification and working in a skills shortage occupation significantly improves eligibility for PR in New Zealand.
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