Study in New Zealand
Up to 3 years
Post-study work after a master's
25 hours a week
Work during term
February and July
Main intakes
₹14 – 29 lakh / year
Indicative tuition
Studying in New Zealand: the overview
New Zealand is a small, welcoming country with a big reputation for quality. All eight of its universities are public and rank among the better-known universities worldwide, and vocational education is offered by polytechnics and institutes of technology, a sector that is being restructured into regional institutes. Every provider that enrols international students must follow the government's Code of Practice on student welfare.
The education style is practical and hands-on, with small classes and close contact with lecturers. Many programmes include research projects or industry placements.
Graduates of bachelor's degrees and above who meet the study requirements can apply for an open Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) of up to three years, and in November 2025 the government increased student work rights from 20 to 25 hours a week.
Living costs are generally lower than in Australia's biggest cities, although Auckland rents are high. The job market is smaller, so choose a course with clear local demand.
- Student visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa
- Visa fee
- About NZD 850 (check Immigration New Zealand)
- Living funds to show
- NZD 20,000 per year for tertiary study, plus tuition
- Work during study
- 25 hours a week in term, full time in scheduled holidays
- Post-study work
- Post-Study Work Visa, up to 3 years depending on qualification
- Intakes
- February (main), July, some other months
- English tests accepted
- IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge; Duolingo at some universities
- Insurance
- Approved medical and travel insurance is compulsory
- PhD tuition
- Same as domestic students
Why Indian students choose New Zealand
Open post-study work
Eligible bachelor's and master's graduates can receive a Post-Study Work Visa of up to 3 years, for any employer.
Work 25 hours a week
Since November 2025 most students can work up to 25 hours a week during term and full time in scheduled holidays.
PhD students pay domestic fees
International PhD students pay the same tuition as New Zealand students, and their partners can get open work visas.
Quality assured education
Every university is public, and all providers must follow the Code of Practice for international learners.
Safe and peaceful
New Zealand consistently ranks among the world's most peaceful countries.
Work and lifestyle balance
Beaches, mountains and national parks are never far away, and the pace of life is relaxed.
Popular courses in New Zealand
Information technology
Software developers and ICT specialists are in demand, and several roles are on the Green List.
Engineering
Civil, electrical and construction engineers are needed for infrastructure and post-earthquake rebuilding.
Agriculture and food science
New Zealand is a world leader in dairy, horticulture and agritech research.
Healthcare and nursing
Registered nurses and allied health professionals are in short supply.
Business and management
Good options in supply chain, tourism and international business.
Environmental science
Research in climate, marine science and conservation is strong.
Top student cities
Auckland
The largest city and business centre, with a big Indian community. Rent is the highest in the country.
Wellington
The capital, with government, film and technology employers and a strong arts culture.
Christchurch
A rebuilt, modern city with engineering and agritech employers and affordable living.
Hamilton
An agricultural and research hub a short drive from Auckland, with lower costs.
Dunedin
A classic student city with a lively campus culture and low rents.
Intakes and deadlines
Semester 1
February – March
Apply by: Apply by October – November
The main intake with the widest course choice. Apply for the visa at least 3 months before travel.
Semester 2
July
Apply by: Apply by March – April
Most universities offer a mid-year intake for many degrees.
Other intakes
September, November
Apply by: Varies
Some polytechnics and private institutes run additional intakes.
Cost of studying in New Zealand
Converted at about ₹57 to 1 NZD. Your bank's rate on the day you pay will differ.
| Item | In NZD | In rupees |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma (Level 5 – 7) | NZD 18,000 – 28,000 / year | ₹10 – 16 lakh / year |
| Bachelor's degree | NZD 25,000 – 45,000 / year | ₹14 – 26 lakh / year |
| Master's degree | NZD 28,000 – 50,000 / year | ₹16 – 29 lakh / year |
| PhD | NZD 7,000 – 10,000 / year (domestic rate) | ₹4 – 5.7 lakh / year |
| Medicine and veterinary science | NZD 70,000 – 90,000 / year | ₹40 – 51 lakh / year |
| Item | In NZD | In rupees |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared room) | NZD 900 – 1,500 / month | ₹51,000 – 86,000 / month |
| Groceries and eating out | NZD 400 – 650 / month | ₹23,000 – 37,000 / month |
| Transport | NZD 100 – 200 / month | ₹5,700 – 11,000 / month |
| Phone, internet and utilities | NZD 120 – 250 / month | ₹7,000 – 14,000 / month |
| Medical and travel insurance | NZD 600 – 1,000 / year | ₹34,000 – 57,000 / year |
Fees, costs and visa rules change often. Figures here are indicative and were last reviewed in September 2026. Always confirm with the university and the official government website before you pay or apply.
Admission requirements
Academic entry
- Undergraduate: Class 12 with roughly 65 – 80% depending on the university and subject.
- Diplomas: Class 12 pass with around 50 – 60%.
- Master's: a bachelor's degree, usually with a B average or 60% or more; some one-year master's need a four-year degree.
- PhD: a master's or honours degree with research, and a supervisor.
English language
Universities usually ask for IELTS 6.0 overall for undergraduate and 6.5 for postgraduate, with no band below 5.5 or 6.0. PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT are widely accepted.
Documents you will need
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English test score report
- Statement of purpose
- CV and experience letters
- Passport
Fee Paying Student Visa
The Fee Paying Student Visa lets you study full time at an approved New Zealand provider. You apply online through Immigration New Zealand after receiving an offer, and you must show that you can pay your tuition and support yourself.
- 1Accept your offer of placeReceive an offer from an approved education provider.
- 2Prepare funds evidenceShow tuition fees plus NZD 20,000 for each year of study, or approved funding options such as the Funds Transfer Scheme.
- 3Apply onlineSubmit your application through the Immigration New Zealand website and pay the fee.
- 4Complete medical and police checksProvide medical certificates and police clearance if your course is long enough to require them.
- 5Pay tuitionImmigration New Zealand may approve your application in principle and ask you to pay tuition before issuing the visa.
- 6Buy insurance and travelHold approved medical and travel insurance for your whole stay.
Documents you will usually need
- Valid passport
- Offer of place
- Proof of funds: bank statements, education loan, sponsor documents
- Tuition payment receipt
- Medical and chest X-ray certificates, if required
- Police certificate, if required
- Evidence of insurance
- Academic transcripts and English test score
Proof of funds
Show at least NZD 20,000 per year of study for tertiary students (about ₹11.4 lakh), in addition to tuition fees. Some students use the Funds Transfer Scheme, which releases money to you in instalments.
Processing time
Most applications are decided within 4 – 8 weeks, though peak periods can take longer. Apply at least 3 months before your course starts.
Work while you study, and after
During your course
Up to 25 hours a week during term (from November 2025) and full time during scheduled holidays for most tertiary students. Master's by research and PhD students may work unlimited hours.
After you graduate
The Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) is open, so you can work for almost any employer. Bachelor's degree and postgraduate qualification holders can receive up to 3 years if they meet study-length requirements. Graduates of Level 4 – 6 diplomas may receive a shorter visa, and some qualifications need to be linked to the Green List.
- You must have studied in New Zealand for the required minimum time, usually 30 weeks for a degree.
- Partners of master's and PhD students can often apply for open work visas.
- Changes to PSWV eligibility have been announced several times since 2022. Check the current rules on Immigration New Zealand's website before you choose a course.
Careers and graduate salaries
| Sector | Typical roles | Indicative salary |
|---|---|---|
| Information technology | Software developer, network engineer, data analyst | NZD 65,000 – 90,000 / year |
| Engineering and construction | Civil engineer, project coordinator, quantity surveyor | NZD 65,000 – 85,000 / year |
| Healthcare | Registered nurse, medical laboratory scientist | NZD 65,000 – 85,000 / year |
| Agriculture and food | Food technologist, agricultural scientist | NZD 55,000 – 75,000 / year |
| Business and finance | Accountant, business analyst | NZD 55,000 – 75,000 / year |
Universities in New Zealand
University of Auckland
Auckland · Public · Founded 1883
New Zealand's largest university
University of Otago
Dunedin · Public · Founded 1869
New Zealand's oldest university
Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington · Public · Founded 1897
Research university in New Zealand's capital
University of Canterbury
Christchurch · Public · Founded 1873
New Zealand's second-oldest university
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Auckland · Public · Founded 1895
Modern, career-focused university; gained university status in 2000
Massey University
Palmerston North · Public · Founded 1927
Public university with campuses in Palmerston North, Auckland and Wellington
Courses to explore
Scholarships for New Zealand
The New Zealand Excellence Awards and university merit scholarships support Indian students with partial tuition awards. The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships focus on developing countries and specific fields. PhD students pay domestic fees and can win university doctoral scholarships that include a stipend.
Studying in New Zealand: FAQs
How many hours can I work in New Zealand?
Most students can now work up to 25 hours a week during term and full time during scheduled holidays.
How much money do I need to show?
NZD 20,000 per year of tertiary study in addition to your tuition fees.
How long is the post-study work visa?
Up to 3 years after a bachelor's or master's degree if you meet the study requirements. Shorter qualifications may lead to shorter visas.
Why is a PhD in New Zealand attractive?
International PhD students pay domestic tuition, can work unlimited hours and may bring a partner who can work full time.
Is New Zealand cheaper than Australia?
Tuition is often slightly lower, and living costs outside Auckland are usually more affordable.
Can my spouse work?
Partners of students in eligible master's or PhD programmes, or in Green List fields, may be able to get open work visas.
When should I apply for the visa?
At least 3 months before your course starts, as soon as you have an offer and your funds are ready.
Is the job market big enough?
It is smaller than in Australia or Canada, so choose a course aligned with real skill shortages.
Ready to apply to New Zealand?
Tell us what you want to study and where. We will reply with a written shortlist, costs in rupees and the next three things to do.