Did you know that all eight public universities in New Zealand are ranked within the top 3% globally? That’s right! Each year, over 69,000 international students, just like you, choose New Zealand for its world-class education and supportive academic environment.
What’s more? Graduates from these universities are highly employable, with bachelor’s degree holders earning an average salary of approximately INR 32L (NZD 64K) annually.
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Moreover, over 80% of students secure a job within two years of graduation, making a degree from public universities in New Zealand a fantastic investment in your future. Ready to explore what these institutions can offer you? Read on to find out.
Key Highlights
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Public Universities in New Zealand | University of Auckland University of Otago University of Waikato |
| Approx. Average Cost of Public Universities in New Zealand | INR 11L (NZD 22K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 98K (NZD 2K) without rent |
| English Language Requirements at Top Public Universities in New Zealand | IELTS: 6.0 – 7.0 TOEFL: 80 – 100 |
Top 8 Cheapest Public 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 top public universities in New Zealand offer two primary intakes, providing 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, which aligns well with the end of the academic year, giving you time to prepare for the transition.
Here’s the list of public universities in New Zealand.
| Public Universities in New Zealand | QS World Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| University of Auckland | 65 |
| University of Otago | 214 |
| University of Waikato | 235 |
| Massey University | 239 |
| Victoria University of Wellington | 244 |
| University of Canterbury | 261 |
| Lincoln University | 371 |
| Auckland University of Technology (AUT) | 412 |
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.
Key Highlights
| Annual Cost of Studying | INR 18L (NZD 37K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 2.5L (NZD 5K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Social Work |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 75% to 80% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.0 TOEFL: 80 |
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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 prides itself on 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.
Key Highlights
| Annual Cost of Studying | INR 3L to INR 4L (NZD 6K to NZD 8.5K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 89K (NZD 1.8K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelor of Commerce Law Honours (LLB) |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 75% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.0 TOEFL: 80 |
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.
Key Highlights
| Annual Cost of Studying | INR 15L to INR 17L (NZD 31K to NZD 35K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 2L (NZD 3.4K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelor of Business BA in Education and Society |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 75% to 80% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.0 TOEFL:80 |
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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.
Key Highlights
| Annual Cost of Studying | INR 16L (NZD 32K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 3L (NZD 5.3K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelors in Humanities and Social Sciences Bachelors in Commerce |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 75% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 90 |
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.
Key Highlights
| Annual Cost of Studying | INR 15L to INR 21L (NZD 30K to NZD 41K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 1.5L (NZD 3K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelor of Creative Media Production Master of Creative Enterprise |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 75 to 85% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.0 to 6.5 TOEFL: 80 to 90 |
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.
Key Highlights
| Annual Cost of Studying | INR 17L to INR 35L (NZD 33K to NZD 35K) |
| Monthly Cost of Living | INR 2L (NZD 3K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelors in Arts, Education & Social Science MBA in Business & Accountancy |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 55% to 75% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.5 to 7 TOEFL: 90 to 100 |
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.
Key Highlights
| Cost of Studying | INR 8L to INR 18L (NZD 17K to NZD 36K) |
| Cost of Living | INR 79K (NZD 1.6K) |
| Popular Programs | BA Hons Marketing and Advertising Master of Environmental Management |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 65% |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.0 to 7.0 TOEFL: 79 to 100 |
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.
Key Highlights
| Cost of Studying | INR 19L to INR 22L (NZD 37K to NZD 45K) |
| Cost of Living | INR 3L (NZD 5K) |
| Popular Programs | Bachelor of Business Master of Philosophy |
| Entry Requirements | Minimum Percentage: 40 – 70 % |
| English Language Proficiency Scores | IELTS: 6.0 – 7.0 TOEFL: 80 – 98 |
New Zealand’s universities not only excel in academic education but also prioritise preparing students for successful careers at every stage, whether it’s during undergraduate, postgraduate, or MBA studies.
Explore some of the top public universities in New Zealand that offer programmes across these levels.
Top Public Universities in New Zealand for Undergraduate Courses
Did you know that New Zealand ranks 11th globally for happiness, according to Forbes? This positive environment contributes to a great student experience, making it a perfect place for pursuing your undergraduate studies.
Here’s a look at some of the top public universities in New Zealand for undergraduate programmes.
| University Name | Top Undergraduate Program | Approx Annual Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Auckland | Bachelor of Commerce | INR 23L (NZD 46K) |
| University of Otago | Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc) | INR 20L (NZD 41K) |
| University of Canterbury | B.Eng (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering | INR 24L (NZD 48K) |
| Victoria University of Wellington | Bachelor of Arts | INR 16L (NZD 33K) |
| University of Waikato | BA in Psychology | INR 20L (NZD 40K) |
Top Public Universities in New Zealand for Post-Graduate Courses
Did you know the average salary after completing an MS in New Zealand can reach INR 36L (NZD 73K) per year? With such strong earning potential, it’s no surprise that New Zealand is becoming a sought-after destination for postgraduate studies.
Look at some of the top public universities in New Zealand for postgraduate courses.
| University Name | Top PG Courses | Approx. Annual Fees (NZD) |
|---|---|---|
| Auckland University of Technology | Master of Business Analytics | INR 28L (NZD 58K) |
| University of Otago | Master of Public Health | INR 23L (NZD 47K) |
| University of Canterbury | Master of Commerce | INR 27L (NZD 55K) |
| Victoria University of Wellington | Master of Law (LLM) | INR 20L (NZD 41K) |
| University of Waikato | Master of Cyber Security | INR 22L (NZD 44K) |
Top Public Universities in New Zealand for MBA
Did you know the average salary for an MBA graduate in New Zealand is INR 41L (NZD 83K) a year? Top public universities in New Zealand offer quality MBA programmes at competitive fees, providing excellent value for international students like you looking to advance their careers.
Here’s an overview.
| University | QS Rankings 2025 | Average Fees |
|---|---|---|
| The University of Auckland | 65 | INR 24L (NZD 46K) full program |
| University of Waikato | 235 | INR 34L (NZD 65K) full program |
| Massey University | 239 | INR 30L (NZD 58K) full program |
| Victoria University of Wellington | 244 | INR 33L (NZD 63K) full program |
| University of Canterbury | 261 | INR 20L (NZD 39K) full program |
Admission Process at Top Public Universities in New Zealand
Applying to top universities in New Zealand involves a series of steps to assess your eligibility and fit for your chosen program.
Here’s a general guide to help you understand the admission process.
- Select Program and University: Decide on the university and specific program you wish to study.
- Check Requirements: Verify the program’s academic and language requirements.
- Submit Application: Complete the online application form on the university’s website, attaching necessary documents like transcripts and recommendation letters.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the required fee online during the application process, typically INR 5K (NZD 100).
- Await Decision: Wait for the university to review your application and issue a decision.
- Accept Offer: If offered admission, accept the offer to secure your place.
Apply for a Visa: With the offer letter, apply for a student visa. The visa acceptance rate is nearly 80%. Below is an overview.
| Visa Type | Approx. Visa Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | INR 37K (NZD 750) | 6 weeks |
Benefits of Studying at Public Universities in New Zealand
Do you know the New Zealand government passed a budget of almost INR 25K crore (NZD 4.9 billion) in 2023 to be spent on the country’s education system in the next five years?
If this doesn’t inspire you enough to study at public universities in New Zealand, the following reasons will. Have a look.
1. World-class Research Facilities
Public universities in New Zealand rank among the top 3% globally, offering access to excellent research facilities. If you’re into research, you’ll benefit from world-class labs and innovation centres.
2. Global Recognition
Degrees from public universities in New Zealand are recognised in over 50 countries, helping you pursue career opportunities around the world. Your qualifications will be respected wherever you go.
3. Diverse Course Offerings
With over 2,000 internationally recognised courses, public universities in New Zealand let you customise your education. You’ll find the right programme to match your career ambitions.
4. Supportive Educational Environment
Public universities in New Zealand have a 90% student satisfaction rate, providing access to support services like academic counselling, career advice, and mental health resources.
5. Opportunities for Practical Experience
Over 80% of programmes include internships or work placements, boosting your employability in New Zealand’s strong job market with a low unemployment rate of just 4.3%.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the top public universities in New Zealand for international students?
Ans. Some of the top public universities in New Zealand for international students include the University of Auckland, the University of Otago, and the University of Waikato. These universities are known for their global rankings, strong academic programmes, and diverse student populations, making them ideal choices for international students looking to pursue higher education in New Zealand.
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Q. What are the cheapest public universities in New Zealand for international students?
Ans. The cheapest public universities in New Zealand for international students include the University of Otago and Lincoln University. These universities offer affordable tuition fees without compromising the quality of education, making them great options for students on a budget who still want to experience New Zealand’s world-class academic environment. Both universities also provide excellent support services to ensure international students have a smooth and successful academic journey.
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Q. What is the cost of living in New Zealand for international students?
Ans. The average cost of living in New Zealand for international students is approximately INR 98K ( NZD 2K) per month, excluding rent. Living costs can vary depending on the city, with smaller towns typically offering more affordable options. You should budget for food, transport, and personal expenses when planning your study abroad experience.
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Q. Are there scholarships available for international students in New Zealand’s public universities?
Ans. Yes, many public universities in New Zealand offer scholarships for international students. For example, the University of Otago provides Global Scholarships worth up to NZD 15,000, and Victoria University of Wellington offers scholarships up to NZD 10,000. These scholarships can help reduce tuition costs and make studying at New Zealand’s public universities more affordable.
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Q. What are the entry requirements for public universities in New Zealand?
Ans. Entry requirements for public universities in New Zealand typically include a minimum academic percentage of 75% to 80% and proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS 6.0 to 7.0 or TOEFL scores between 80 and 100. Specific requirements vary by university and programme, so it’s important to check each institution’s criteria before applying.
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Q. Which public universities in New Zealand offer business programmes?
Ans. Several public universities in New Zealand offer business programmes, including the University of Auckland, the University of Waikato, and Massey University. These universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in business, such as Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Business, and Master of Business Analytics, with globally recognised qualifications that can significantly boost your career prospects.
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Q. How long does it take to complete a degree at a public university in New Zealand?
Ans. A bachelor’s degree at a public university in New Zealand typically takes 3 to 4 years to complete, while postgraduate degrees such as a Master’s programme usually take 1 to 2 years. The duration of your degree will depend on the specific programme you choose at any of the public universities in New Zealand.
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Q. What is the average salary for graduates from public universities in New Zealand?
Ans. Graduates from public universities in New Zealand can expect competitive salaries. For example, those with a bachelor’s degree typically earn around INR 32L (NZD 64K) annually, while postgraduate graduates can earn even higher salaries. The high employability rate of graduates from public universities in New Zealand makes it an attractive destination for international students.
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Q. Are there internships or work placements offered at public universities in New Zealand?
Ans. Yes, many public universities in New Zealand offer internships and work placements as part of their programmes. Over 80% of courses include these opportunities, helping students gain valuable hands-on experience in their field of study. This enhances employability and allows students to build networks in New Zealand’s dynamic job market. These practical experiences are an excellent way to apply academic knowledge and prepare for a successful career after graduation.
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Q. Can international students work while studying at public universities in New Zealand?
Ans. International students at public universities in New Zealand can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. This allows students to gain work experience while studying and helps to manage living expenses. Make sure to check visa restrictions and work conditions before starting employment.
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Q. How do I apply to public universities in New Zealand?
Ans. To apply to public universities in New Zealand, first, choose your programme and university from the list of public universities in New Zealand. Check the academic and English language requirements, complete the online application, and submit the necessary documents. After receiving an offer, accept it and apply for a student visa to begin your studies.
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