The New Zealand Government has announced an increase in visa charges, including fees and levies, effective 1 October 2024. This change is part of an effort to improve the immigration system’s efficiency, sustainability, and self-funding.
Ranked as the 4th most peaceful country globally according to the 2024 Global Peace Index, New Zealand offers an exceptionally safe and supportive environment for education. Its world-ranked universities and responsive educational system are perfectly complemented by a vibrant culture and dynamic economy, making it an ideal destination for Indian students seeking quality education. Not to mention, New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes ensure a student experience that is as scenic as it is enriching.
Here’s why New Zealand Stands out as the perfect destination for international students:
Educational Excellence: New Zealand universities consistently rank highly on global scales for quality education. All eight of its universities are in the top 3% globally, offering internationally respected and recognized qualifications.
Research Opportunities: New Zealand is renowned for its hands-on learning approach and robust research facilities, particularly in fields like agriculture, environmental science, and engineering. This provides students with a practical edge and exposure to leading-edge innovations.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: New Zealand offers a “Post-Study Work Visa” for up to three years, allowing international students to seek employment and gain work experience in the country post-graduation.
Quality of Life: New Zealand ranks 4th for quality of life, with a peaceful environment (ranking fourth in the 2024 Global Peace Index), stunning landscapes, and a reputation for being welcoming and safe for foreigners.
Strong Graduate Outcomes: Graduates from New Zealand universities have a high employment rate, with 95% of them finding employment within six months of graduation.*
*Source: https://www.universitiesnz.ac.nz/sector-research/achieving-excellent-graduate-outcomes.
Explore top courses in New Zealand, from tech to healthcare, designed to equip you with globally recognised skills and strong career prospects.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Artificial Intelligence
Master of Science (MS)
Civil Engineering
Hotel Management
Accounting
Agriculture
Sports Management
IT and Computer Science
Cloud Computing
Medicine, Healthcare, and Nursing
Animation and Web Design
New Zealand’s top universities offer world-class education, innovative research, and a welcoming environment for international students. Here’s a list:
University | Rankings |
The University of Auckland | 64 |
University of Otago | 214 |
University of Waikato | 235 |
Massey University | 239 |
Victoria University of Wellington | 244 |
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | 261 |
Lincoln University | 371 |
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) | 412 |
In some universities, intakes may also be referred to as a semester. The two intakes available in New Zealand are:
Semester 1: February to June
Semester 2: July to November
Admissions for vocational courses may also be available in the months of March, April and May.
Want to check if you’re eligible to get into your dream university? With IDP Fastlane you can get an in-principle offer in seconds!
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The cost of studying in New Zealand in 2024 includes tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs like accommodation and insurance. Here’s a breakdown:
Undergraduate Programs: Range from NZD 25,000 to NZD 45,000 per year, depending on the field. Specialized fields like medicine and veterinary science are often more costly.
Postgraduate Programs: Typically cost between NZD 20,000 and NZD 37,000 per year, with some subjects incurring higher fees.
PhD Programs: PhD tuition fees are the same for international and domestic students, averaging NZD 6,500 to NZD 9,000 per year.
MBA Programs: Average costs are higher, typically between NZD 31,000 and NZD 50,000 annually
*Source: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/advice/cost-studying-university-new-zealand https://www.studyin-new-zealand.com/study-info/course-fees-and-study-cost/
Here are some popular scholarship programs you can apply to as an Indian student:
Name of scholarship | Description |
New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) | Funded by the New Zealand government, these scholarships are for |
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships | Indian students who apply to master’s degree or PhD can try for the Full tuition fees An allowance of NZ$ 491 per week for living expenses For covering, setup cost an establish allowance of NZ$ 3,000 Medical and travel insurance and research cost for postgraduate students (Sources: *https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/aid-and-development/new-zealand- |
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) | NZEA features scholarships across all eight universities, |
NZ-GRADS New Zealand Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarship | The Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Tuition fees up to NZD 10,000 per year An annual stipend for covering expenses NZD 28,000 per year (tax-free) Medical insurance up to NZD 700 per year Visa application cost not exceeding up to $1,000 Airfare upon returning to New Zealand up to a maximum amount of $6,000 Research allowance up to $1,500 Feel free to reach out to your IDP international education expert for the application process (Source:https://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/how-to-apply/scholarship/details? |
SEG Scholarship | This scholarship program is funded by the Soshi Educational Group. Value of the scholarships The length of the award is one year Sources: *https://www.careers.govt.nz/scholarship/view/091504/8550/70738300 |
Palmerston North City Mayor’s Goodwill Ambassador Scholarship | It is sponsored by the City Council of Palmerston Value of the scholarship: NZD 1,000 towards the first year’s tuition (Source:https://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/how-to-apply/scholarship/details?scholarshipid=129545&institutionid=142407#:~:text=The%20Mayor’s%20Goodwill% |
If you are over 18 years and plan to study in New Zealand for more than six months, here’s an overview of the types of student visa available for you:
S.No. | Types of student visa | Description |
1 | Fee Paying Student Visa | Study full-time for up to four years and be able to work part-time |
2 | Exchange Student Visa | Study full-time for up to four years for an approved student exchange program |
3 | Foreign Government Supported Student Visa | Study full-time for up to four years on a foreign government loan or scholarship |
4 | Pathway Student Visa | Study up to five years for 3 consecutive courses on a single student visa and be able to work part-time |
*For detailed information, please visit the New Zealand Government’s Immigration website
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most student-friendly cities, known for their high-quality universities, safe environments, and rich cultural experiences. Each city offers a unique blend of academic excellence, outdoor activities, and vibrant student communities, making New Zealand a top choice for international students.
Cities | Rank |
Auckland | 24 |
Christchurch | 79 |
New Zealand offers an affordable and high-quality lifestyle for international students, with living costs varying by city and lifestyle. From accommodation and food to transport and leisure, students can expect a balanced, manageable budget. With a bit of planning, it’s possible to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and unique cultural experiences New Zealand has to offer without overspending.
Accommodation
On-Campus (Residence Halls): NZD 215 to NZD 555 per week, depending on location and facilities.
Off-Campus (Shared Flats): Ranges from NZD 120 to NZD 600 per week, with variations based on the city and type of accommodation.
General Living Expenses
Budget approximately NZD 15,000 to NZD 20,000 per year in smaller cities, and NZD 18,000 to NZD 25,000 per year in larger cities like Auckland.
Utilities: About NZD 100 per month for shared housing.
Food and Groceries: Weekly grocery bills range between NZD 80 and NZD 120.
Healthcare and Insurance: Health and travel insurance costs approximately NZD 350 per semester
Miscellaneous: Monthly phone bills average NZD 20, internet around NZD 70 per month (shared), and public transport can add NZD 2.50 to NZD 37 per week
*Sources: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/advice/cost-studying-university-new-zealand
https://www.studywithnewzealand.govt.nz/en/why-new-zealand/living-in-new-zealand/cost-of-living
In 2024, New Zealand’s job market highlights strong demand across several key industries, reflecting both domestic needs and global economic trends. Healthcare remains a priority, especially as the country addresses an aging population, with roles for nurses, aged-care workers, and allied health professionals in high demand. This sector alone has seen substantial growth, with significant government support for ongoing recruitment and training.
Technology and engineering fields are also expanding, particularly in areas such as IT, cybersecurity, and renewable energy engineering. With New Zealand’s focus on sustainability, there is a growing emphasis on “green jobs” in energy and environmental sectors. Additionally, IT roles, including software development and data analysis, are essential as organizations advance digital transformation initiatives.
Education is experiencing a shortage of qualified teachers, prompting government investment in training programs to fill roles in primary and secondary education. This shortage offers opportunities for educators, especially in regional areas where the need is most pronounced.
*Sources:
https://www.stats.govt.nz/information-releases/labour-market-statistics-june-2024-quarterht
tps://www.live-work.immigration.govt.nz/work-in-new-zealand/job-market-key-industries
https://www.mbie.govt.nz/business-and-employment/employment-and-skills/labour-market-reports-data-and-analysis
https://www.stats.govt.nz/topics/labour-market
https://www.mbie.govt.nz/business-and-employment/employment-and-skills/labour-market-reports-data-and-analysis/labour-market-statistics-snapshot