Cost to Study in New Zealand
Explore study opportunities in New Zealand
New Zealand has become a favored destination for international students due to its excellent universities, globally recognized qualifications, and a safe, supportive environment that fosters academic and personal growth. Students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and innovate, preparing them for a balanced life post-graduation.
Furthermore, New Zealand offers an education system that accommodates various budgets. The tuition fees at New Zealand universities are strategically set based on the student’s level of study, residency status, and chosen field.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees generally refer to the cost of studying at a university in New Zealand. The amount you pay will depend on the university you choose, the type of course you enroll in, and your level of study. For instance, postgraduate programs typically cost more than undergraduate courses. The table below provides a clear overview of the fee structure for different courses offered by universities in New Zealand.
| Course Level | Annual Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees in INR * | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering | NZD 44,526 | ₹23,19,084.84 | ||||||
| Medical and Health Sciences | NZD 44,000 to 77,328 | ₹22,89,837.37 - ₹40,24,285.09 | ||||||
| Diplomas or Certificate courses | NZD 12,000 to 18,000 | ₹6,24,313.07 to ₹9,36,469.60 | ||||||
| Bachelors | NZD 22,000 to 32,000 | ₹11,44,573.96 - ₹16,65,336.27 | ||||||
| Masters | NZD 26,000 to 37,000 | ₹13,53,085.72 - ₹19,25,545.06 | ||||||
| PhD | NZD 6500 to 9000 | ₹3,38,271 - ₹4,68,375.83 | ||||||
| MBA | NZD 30,000 to 55,000 | ₹15,51,541.84 - ₹28,44,493.36 | ||||||
*The prices in INR are as per conversion of Feb 2025. Please note the price might vary depending on your preferences or changes in currency or fee structures.
The prices displayed are approx limites observed.
Accommodation cost
Apart from your tuition fees, another major expense or cost to study in New Zealand is the total amount you spend on accommodation.
The amount you actually spend on accommodation depends on various factors like the type of accommodation you choose, followed by the neighbourhood and a few other similar factors.
Multiple accommodation options, such as Halls of Residence, can cost you around NZD 200 to 500 (about ₹ 10,000) per week. Some other options include local homestays that charges NZD 110 to 370 per week (around ₹ 8,000), youth hostels, which NZD 200 per week (around ₹ 10,500), and sharing rented apartments with friends that is NZD 200 per head per week (around ₹ 10,500).
However, if you plan to adapt to independent living, it can cost you around NZD 565, which is around 29,400 INR per week.
Lifestyle expenses
Studying at a top university in New Zealand isn’t just about covering living expenses—it’s also about experiencing the country. Set aside a portion of your budget to explore, visit popular tourist spots, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Basic lifestyle expenses typically include food, groceries, transportation, books, stationery, health, household utilities, internet, and mobile bills.
Additionally, it’s wise to keep some extra funds for emergencies, recreation, and entertainment to make the most of your time in New Zealand.
Student Visa Fees
As an international student, you also have to pay for your student visa. Having a student visa is mandatory if you are willing to pursue higher education in New Zealand or any other country.
Moreover, obtaining a student visa also enables you to work part-time along with your course in a foreign land. For a clearer understanding, explore the list of available student visas for studying in New Zealand.
Fee-paying Student Visa
Pathway Student Visa
Insurance and taxes
Owning medical insurance before starting your course in New Zealand is a mandatory requirement for all international students. The cost of medical insurance in New Zealand typically ranges from INR 10,473 to INR 36,656.
Additionally, if you earn any income while studying in New Zealand, you are required to pay taxes on your earnings. To do so, you must obtain an IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number. You can apply for this number online through the IRD’s official website or by contacting New Zealand’s Inland Revenue Department.
Currently, New Zealand imposes a 10.5% tax on annual earnings below NZD 14,000.
Find More Information in Our FAQs
For studying in public universities in New Zealand, international students have to shell out tuition fees. The fee varies on factors like the academic degree type and the duration of study. For bachelor studies, you need to pay between NZD 22,000 to 32,000 annually. Master’s degrees’ annual fee is in the NZD 26,000 to 37,000 range.
The cost depends upon the course you are studying for and the university you have applied for. However, out of the two, New Zealand is cheaper when compared to Australia.
We have discussed the cost of studying in New Zealand. It is quite affordable as compared to the other overseas destinations. Apart from that, you get a chance to experience world class education in a friendly international environment. You will also get global exposure which could enhance your career. For further details about New Zealand, you can talk to our counsellors.
Yes, you can work while studying in New Zealand. On a student visa, you can work part time for 20 hours a week if you are pursuing a 1 year full-time course in the country.
