Studying in New Zealand combines academic excellence with an exceptional quality of life, making it an attractive destination for Indian students. The cost of studying in New Zealand ranges from INR 17L to 29L (NZD 35K to 59K) annually, covering tuition and living expenses.
While these costs may seem high, scholarships like the New Zealand Excellence Awards and the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships can ease the financial burden. With an average graduate salary of INR 39L (NZD 79K), the cost of studying in New Zealand becomes a worthwhile investment for a bright future.
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Read on to find out more about cost of studying in New Zealand.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost of Studying at Top Universities in New Zealand | The University of Auckland: INR 20L to 30L (NZD 40K to 60K) University of Otago: INR 2.5L to 6L (NZD 5K to 12K) University of Waikato: INR 15L to 22L (NZD 30K to 45K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | Rent : INR 84K to 99K (NZD 1.7K to 2K) Groceries: INR 28K (NZD 573) Utilities: INR 11K (NZD 230) |
| Top Scholarships | Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship New Zealand Excellence Awards (India) Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) Scholarship |
Cost of Studying at Top Universities in New Zealand
New Zealand is home to eight world-renowned public universities, and its education system is ranked 7th best in the world. Additionally, New Zealand students consistently rank among the top 10 globally for academic success.
For international students, understanding the cost of studying in New Zealand is essential when planning their education. Here is an overview of universities in New Zealand and their fees.
| University | QS Ranking 2025 | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| The University of Auckland | 65 | INR 20L to INR 30L (NZD 40K to NZD 60K) |
| University of Otago | 214 | INR 2.5L to INR 6L (NZD 5K to NZD 12K) |
| University of Waikato | 235 | INR 15L to INR 22L (NZD 30K to NZD 45K) |
| Massey University | 239 | INR 14L to INR 25L (NZD 30K to NZD 50K) |
| Victoria University of Wellington | 244 | INR 15L to INR 24L (NZD 30K to NZD 48K) |
| University of Canterbury | 261 | INR 15L to INR 22L (NZD 30K to NZD 45K) |
| Lincoln University | 371 | INR 7L to INR 10L (NZD 15K to NZD 20K) |
| Auckland University of Technology | 412 | INR 14L to INR 25L (NZD 30K to NZD 50K) |
Program-wise Cost of Studying in New Zealand
Last year, New Zealand saw a 67% rise in international student enrollment, with 69,135 students choosing its world-class education system. Of this number, 11% were Indian students.
As you consider studying in New Zealand, it’s crucial to understand the cost of studying there at different levels. Tuition fees can vary, and knowing these costs will help you effectively plan your education and finances.
Here is an overview of the program-wise cost of studying in New Zealand.
| Program Name | Approximate Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | INR 10L to INR 12L (NZD 20.5K to NZD 25K) |
| Master’s | INR 9L to INR 14L (NZD 19K to NZD 29K) |
| Doctoral | INR 3L to INR 4.5L (NZD 6K to NZD 9K) |
| Diplomas/Certificates | INR 11L to INR 23L (NZD 23K to NZD 47K) |
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Course-Wise Cost of Studying in New Zealand
When considering the cost of studying in New Zealand, it’s important to note that MBA and IT programs are among the most popular and in-demand fields. MBA graduates in New Zealand can expect an average salary of INR 27L to 44L (NZD 54K to 89K) annually, making it a lucrative choice.
Similarly, IT skills are highly sought after, with between 2,000 and 3,000 IT roles regularly advertised, reflecting the sector’s prominence. As you plan your education, comprehending these fields’ potential return on investment can help you understand the cost of studying in New Zealand effectively.
Here is an overview of the course-wise cost of studying in New Zealand.
| Top Courses in New Zealand | Approximate Annual Fees |
|---|---|
| Information Technology (IT) | INR 10L to INR 12L (NZD 20K to NZD 25K) |
| Business and Management | INR 17L to INR 27L (NZD 35K to NZD 54K) |
| Engineering | INR 10L to INR 22L (NZD 20K to NZD 45K) |
| Medicine | INR 17 to INR 40L (NZD 35K to NZD 80K) |
| Hospitality Management | INR 8L to INR 10L (NZD 16K to NZD 21K) |
Additional Cost of Studying in New Zealand
When planning the cost of studying in New Zealand, you must consider both pre-arrival and post-arrival costs, as well as tuition and living expenses.
These additional costs can significantly impact your overall budget and should be factored into your financial planning. Understanding the cost of studying in New Zealand helps you better plan your expenses.
Here is an overview of pre-arrival costs for Indian students.
| Cost Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Flight Tickets | INR 40K to 80K (NZD 800 to 1.6K) |
| Student Visa | INR 37K (NZD 750) |
| Health Insurance | INR 34K (NZD 700) per year |
Here is an overview of post-arrival costs for Indian students.
| Cost Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation Deposit | INR 30K to 50K (NZD 600 to NZD 1K) |
| Tax & Registration | Starts at 10.5% based on part-time income |
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Cost of living in New Zealand for Indian Students
The cost of living in New Zealand is crucial for Indian students like you when planning their studies abroad. On average, living expenses in New Zealand are significantly lower than in other countries, for instance, cost of living with rent in New Zealand is 19.7% cheaper than the USA. The total cost of studying in New Zealand from India is estimated to be around INR 17L to 29L (NZD 35K to 59K) per year, including living costs and tuition.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | INR 84K to INR 99K (NZD 1.7K to NZD 2K) |
| Groceries | INR 28K (NZD 573) |
| Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water) | INR 11K (NZD 230) |
| Transport (Public/Monthly Pass) | INR 8K (NZD 179) |
| Mobile & Internet | INR 4K (NZD 90) |
| Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Dining, etc.) | INR 1K to INR 3K (NZD 20 to NZD 60) |
Scholarships in New Zealand for Indian Students
Scholarships in New Zealand provide Indian students like you with an excellent opportunity to reduce the financial burden of studying there. Last year, over 3,000 scholarships were awarded to international students, and universities and government programs offered many.
These scholarships, based on academic excellence, leadership potential, or specific fields of study, can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both—making the cost of studying in New Zealand significantly more affordable.
Here is a quick overview of major scholarships for Indian students in New Zealand.
| Name of the Scholarship | Amount |
|---|---|
| Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship | Fully Funded |
| New Zealand Excellence Awards (India) | NZD 320K (INR 1.60 Cr.) |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) Scholarship | Fully Funded |
| University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship | Up to NZD 10K (INR 5L) towards tuition fees |
| University of Otago International Research Master’s Scholarship | Tuition fee waiver for one year NZD 18K (INR 9L) stipend per year |
Tips for Managing Cost of Living in New Zealand
Managing your expenses while studying in New Zealand is essential to make the most of your budget. With some thoughtful planning and practical tips, you can easily handle the cost of studying in New Zealand without compromising your student experience.
- Opt for Shared Accommodation: Sharing rent with roommates can significantly reduce housing costs, which are among students’ largest expenses.
- Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home is far more affordable than dining out regularly, helping you save on food expenses.
- Use Public Transport: Take advantage of student discounts on public transport to cut down on travel costs.
- Take Advantage of Student Discounts: Many retailers, entertainment venues, and services offer discounts for students, so always carry your student ID.
- Work Part-Time: Utilize the opportunity to work part-time, which can help you earn extra income to cover daily expenses. With a student visa, you can work up to 20 hours weekly during the academic term and 40 hours during breaks.
Studying in New Zealand offers high-quality education, but understanding and managing costs is crucial. From tuition fees to living expenses, pre-arrival and post-arrival costs, scholarships, and part-time job opportunities, careful planning can make studying abroad more affordable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the New Zealand university fees for international students?
Ans. The New Zealand university fees for international students can vary depending on the university and the program. On average, you can expect to pay INR 14L to 30L (NZD 30K to 60K) per year, which impacts the cost of studying in New Zealand. For example, the University of Auckland has fees ranging from INR 20L to 30L (NZD 40K to 60K), while more affordable options like the University of Otago charge INR 2.5L to 5.5L (NZD 5K to 11K).
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Q. What are the typical New Zealand university fees for international students?
Ans. New Zealand university fees for international students vary depending on the program and level of study. For an undergraduate program, the fees typically range from INR 10L to 12L (NZD 20.5K to 25K) per year, while a Master’s degree can cost between INR 9L to 14L (NZD 19K to 29K). Doctoral and diploma programs generally have lower fees, ranging from INR 3L to 4.5L (NZD 6K to 9K)
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Q. What are the typical New Zealand MBA fees, and what is the return on investment?
Ans. New Zealand MBA fees generally range from INR 17L to 27L (NZD 35K to 54K) annually, depending on the university and specific program. Graduates of MBA programs in New Zealand can expect an average salary of INR 27L to 44L (NZD 54K to 89K), offering a solid return on investment. The lucrative career prospects in fields like business management, coupled with the demand for skilled professionals, make the New Zealand MBA fees a worthwhile consideration.
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Q. What are the tuition fees in New Zealand for international students?
Ans. Tuition fees in New Zealand for international students vary depending on the program and level of study. For example, tuition fees for Information Technology (IT) programs range from INR 10L to 12L (NZD 20K to 25K). In comparison, the cost of business and management programs is between INR 17L and 27L (NZD 35K to 54K) annually.
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Q. What are the MBBS in New Zealand for Indian students fees?
Ans. The MBBS in New Zealand for Indian students fees can range from INR 17L to 40L (NZD 35K to 80K) per year. This includes both tuition and clinical placements throughout the program, which typically lasts six years. It’s essential to plan for these costs when considering your medical education in New Zealand.
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Q. What are the typical New Zealand Master’s fees for international students?
Ans. The New Zealand Master’s fees typically range from NZD 19,000 to NZD 29,000 (INR 9L to 14L) per year. The exact amount depends on the university and the program you choose, with specialised fields like business or engineering often costing more than general studies. Additionally, students should factor in additional costs like books, materials, and living expenses when budgeting for their Master’s degree.
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Q. What is the average cost of New Zealand bachelor’s degree fees?
Ans. The New Zealand Bachelor’s degree fees for international students range from NZD 20,500 to NZD 25,000 (INR 10L to 12L) per year. These fees can vary depending on the program and the institution, with specialised courses like medical or engineering degrees costing more. It’s essential to check with the specific university for the most accurate and up-to-date fee structure for your chosen program.
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Q. What is the total cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students?
Ans. The cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students is estimated to be around INR 17L to 29L (NZD 35K to 59K) per year, which includes tuition and living expenses. The total cost varies depending on your lifestyle and the program you choose, but rent and other living expenses are relatively affordable compared to other countries.
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Q. How does the cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students compare to other study destinations?
Ans. The cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students is often lower than in many popular study destinations like the USA or the UK. With tuition fees ranging from INR 9L to 14L (NZD 19K to 29K) for Master’s programs and lower living costs, New Zealand offers a cost-effective education while maintaining a high standard of living and quality education.
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Q. What part-time jobs can international students in New Zealand do, and how much can they earn?
Ans. Part-time jobs in New Zealand provide international students like you with an opportunity to earn competitive wages while studying. Entry-level roles, such as retail assistants, lab technicians, tutors, and servers, pay between INR 1K (NZD 20) and INR 1.3K (NZD 26) per hour. With an average monthly income of INR 10K (NZD 200), these jobs help significantly in managing daily expenses and reducing the overall cost of studying in New Zealand.
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Q. What are the regulations for international students working part-time in New Zealand?
Ans. International students in New Zealand can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and up to 40 hours during breaks, such as summer or winter vacations. This helps significantly with the cost of studying in New Zealand. To legally work, students need permission from their university and must obtain an IRD number for tax compliance. Additionally, students earning less than INR 7L (NZD 4K) annually will be taxed at a 10.5% rate.
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