Introduction
At a glance
- Tuition per yearUG NZ$36,000–55,000 · PG NZ$40,000–60,000about ₹21.6 lakh – ₹32.4 lakh for a master's
- Living cost per yearNZ$20,000–27,000about ₹10.8 lakh – ₹14.6 lakh
- IntakesFebruary, July
- Part-time work25 hrs/week in term
- Post-study workUp to 3 years after a master's
- Usual IELTS (overall)Bachelor's 6.0 · Master's 6.5
Typical figures from this guide, checked 22 Oct 2026. Approximate exchange rates (based on ECB reference rates, March 2026). Actual rates on your payment date will differ. Tap any box for the details and official sources.
Quick read
- New Zealand had about 92,600 international students in 2025, and India was the second-largest source country with 14% of enrolments.
- Most university tuition for international students falls between about NZ$38,000 and NZ$61,000 a year, and you must pay the first year (or the whole course, if shorter) before the visa is granted.
- For the student visa you must also show NZ$20,000 a year for living costs, plus a return ticket or the money to buy one.
- Students can work up to 25 hours a week during study (since 3 November 2025) and full-time in scheduled holidays, at a minimum wage of NZ$23.95 an hour from 1 April 2026.
- A master's degree with at least 30 weeks of study in New Zealand can lead to a Post Study Work Visa of up to three years with open work rights.
- Two new options open on 16 November 2026: post-study work for some Level 7 graduate diplomas, and a six-month Short-Term Graduate Work Visa.
New Zealand is a small country of about five million people with eight universities, all of them public, plus institutes of technology and polytechnics and private training providers. Degrees follow a British-style structure: most bachelor's degrees take three years, and master's degrees take one to two years depending on the number of credits.
For Indian students, the main attractions are a calm, safe-feeling study environment, smaller class sizes and a clear set of visa rules on work during and after study. The trade-off is cost: tuition is close to Australian levels, and the job market is much smaller than in Australia or Canada.
This guide sets out what it costs, how the student visa works, what the work rules are in October 2026, and which changes have been announced but are not yet in force.
Why Indian students choose New Zealand
India is New Zealand's second-largest source of international students after China. Education New Zealand's figures for 2025 put India at 14% of all international enrolments, at a time when total numbers grew by about 11% in a year.
Indian students tend to choose postgraduate diplomas and master's degrees in IT, business, engineering, data and health. These courses fit well with the Post Study Work Visa rules, which give the longest visas to master's and doctoral graduates.
A large Indian community also makes settling in easier. The 2023 Census counted over 255,000 people in the Indian ethnic group, and India is the second most common overseas birthplace for New Zealand residents. Note that Indian government figures (about 7,900 Indian students in tertiary study at the start of 2025) are lower than an estimate based on Education New Zealand's share, because the two sources count different sectors and dates.
| What | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| International student enrolments in New Zealand, 2025 | 92,580 (up 11% on 2024) | Education New Zealand, May 2026 |
| India's share of international enrolments, 2025 | 14% (second after China at 34%) | Education New Zealand, May 2026 |
| International students at New Zealand universities, 2025 | 38,025 (up 14%) | Education New Zealand, May 2026 |
| Indian students at New Zealand universities and tertiary institutions (as on 1 January 2025) | 7,931 | Ministry of External Affairs, India, Dec 2025 |
| People in the Indian ethnic group, 2023 Census | 255,261 | Stats NZ, 2023 Census |
Top universities in New Zealand
Universities Indian students often ask us about. Being listed here doesn't mean Admission Mantra represents the university; we'll tell you plainly how we can help with each application.
Photo: Colin Rose from Montreal, Canada, CC BY 2.0 PublicUniversity of Auckland
Auckland, New ZealandOften chosen for Engineering, Business & Management, Medicine & Health Sciences
Photo: ArtNewNZ, CC BY-SA 4.0 PublicUniversity of Otago
Dunedin, New ZealandOften chosen for Medicine & Health Sciences, Life Sciences
Photo: Panamitsu, CC BY-SA 4.0 PublicVictoria University of Wellington
Wellington, New ZealandOften chosen for Law, Computer Science & IT, Arts, Design & Media
Photo: Photograph by Greg O'Beirne, CC BY-SA 3.0 PublicUniversity of Canterbury
Christchurch, New ZealandOften chosen for Engineering, Computer Science & IT, Business & Management
Photo: Sophbuchan, CC BY-SA 4.0 PublicAuckland University of Technology (AUT)
Auckland, New ZealandOften chosen for Computer Science & IT, Business & Management, Nursing & Allied Health
Photo: Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA 4.0 PublicMassey University
Palmerston North, New ZealandOften chosen for Business & Management, Life Sciences, Arts, Design & Media
Photo: Nil NZ, CC BY-SA 4.0 PublicUniversity of Waikato
Hamilton, New ZealandOften chosen for Computer Science & IT, Business & Management, Life Sciences
Photo: Lincoln University Library, Teaching and Learning, CC BY-SA 2.0 PublicLincoln University
Lincoln, New ZealandOften chosen for Life Sciences, Business & Management
Photo: Ingolfson at English Wikipedia (Original text: Uploader.), Public domain PublicUnitec Institute of Technology
Auckland, New ZealandOften chosen for Computer Science & IT, Business & Management, Engineering
- Public
Otago Polytechnic
Dunedin, New ZealandOften chosen for Nursing & Allied Health, Arts, Design & Media, Business & Management
Photo: Jakob (TheLoyalOrder), CC BY-SA 4.0 PublicEastern Institute of Technology (EIT)
Napier, New ZealandOften chosen for Nursing & Allied Health, Business & Management, Computer Science & IT
Popular courses
Programmes Indian students commonly choose in New Zealand. Exact course names, fees and entry rules vary by university.
- PostgraduateMaster of Information TechnologyComputer Science & IT
- PostgraduateMaster of Business AnalyticsData Science & AI
- PostgraduateMaster of EngineeringEngineering
- PostgraduateMaster of Professional AccountingFinance & Accounting
- PostgraduateMaster of Business Administration (MBA)Business & Management
- Diploma / certificatePostgraduate Diploma in Information TechnologyComputer Science & IT
- Diploma / certificateGraduate Diploma in BusinessBusiness & Management
- UndergraduateBachelor of NursingNursing & Allied Health
Looking for something specific? Try the Course Finder.
Explore course guides: what each course covers, costs by country and careers
Benefits of studying in New Zealand
- 01
Clear work rights while studying
Most student visas now allow up to 25 hours of work a week during study and full-time work in scheduled holidays, for courses of at least 120 credits.
- 02
Up to three years of post-study work
Master's and doctoral graduates who studied in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks can get a Post Study Work Visa of up to three years, for any employer and any job.
- 03
Work rights for partners
If you study a master's or PhD, or certain Green List-linked courses, your partner can usually apply for a work visa of their own.
- 04
Required student wellbeing standards
Every provider that enrols international students must sign up to a government Code of Practice on pastoral care, covering safety, accommodation and support services.
- 05
PhD fees at local rates
Most international PhD students pay the same tuition as New Zealand students; at the University of Auckland this is about NZ$8,850 a year in 2026.
- 06
Smaller cities and classes
Outside Auckland, university cities are compact and easy to get around, and many courses have smaller classes than large universities elsewhere.
Eligibility and English tests
| Requirement | Bachelor's | Master's |
|---|---|---|
| Academic qualification | Class 12 (CBSE, ISC or a state board) with good marks; minimum percentages differ by university and course. | A recognised bachelor's degree, usually in a related subject, with a good academic record. |
| Subject requirements | Some courses need specific Class 12 subjects, for example maths and physics for engineering. | Some master's degrees need a degree in the same field or relevant work experience. |
| Length of Indian degree | Not applicable. | A three-year Indian degree is often accepted for postgraduate diplomas and 180–240 credit master's; shorter 120-credit master's usually expect a four-year or honours degree. |
| IELTS Academic (example: University of Auckland) | 6.0 overall, no band below 5.5 | 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0 |
| PTE Academic (example: University of Auckland) | 50 overall, no communicative score below 42 | 58 overall, no communicative score below 50 |
| Foundation or pathway route | Available at several universities if your marks or subjects do not meet direct entry. | Some students start with a postgraduate certificate or diploma and move on to a master's. |
| Typical course length | 3 years (4 for engineering honours and some professional degrees) | 1–2 years (120, 180 or 240 credits) |
English tests commonly accepted
- IELTS Academic
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Each course page lists its own English score; some courses ask for more than the minimum shown here.
- Some universities may waive the English test for students who studied in English-medium institutions, but this is decided case by case.
- Immigration New Zealand relies on your provider's assessment of your academic and English ability, so you do not normally sit a separate visa English test.
Intakes and application timeline
Main intakes: February, July.
Shortlist courses and universities
10–12 months before intake
Take an English test
8–10 months before intake
Submit applications
5–8 months before intake
Accept an offer and pay tuition as required
3–4 months before intake
Apply for the student visa and arrange insurance
2–3 months before intake
Cost of studying in New Zealand
University tuition for international students is set per course and per credit, so the yearly cost depends on the subject and the number of credits you take. Business and arts courses cost less than engineering, science and health. Fees usually rise by a few per cent each year.
| Tuition | In NZD | Approx. in rupees |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree: business, arts, lawFor example, a Bachelor of Business at Waikato is about NZ$38,250 (2026); a Bachelor of Commerce at Auckland is about NZ$51,000 (2027). | NZ$38,000–52,000per year | ≈ ₹20.5 lakh – ₹28.1 lakh |
| Bachelor's degree: science, IT, engineeringEngineering honours ranges from about NZ$48,350 at Waikato (2026) to about NZ$60,900 at Auckland (2027). | NZ$42,000–61,000per year | ≈ ₹22.7 lakh – ₹32.9 lakh |
| Master's: business, IT, scienceA 180-credit master's runs for about 18 months, so the total is roughly one and a half times this figure. | NZ$41,000–54,000per year (120 credits) | ≈ ₹22.1 lakh – ₹29.2 lakh |
| Master's: engineering | NZ$50,000–59,000per year (120 credits) | ≈ ₹27 lakh – ₹31.9 lakh |
| PhD (most international doctoral students)University of Auckland 2026 domestic-rate fee; other universities charge similar amounts. | NZ$8,850per year | ≈ ₹4.8 lakh |
Other costs before you fly
| Item | In NZD | Approx. in rupees |
|---|---|---|
| Student visa fee and visitor levyNZ$750 visa fee and immigration levy plus the NZ$100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. | NZ$850one-off | ≈ ₹45,900 |
| First year's tuition, paid before the visa is grantedYou must show proof that fees for one year (or the whole course, if shorter) have been paid. | NZ$38,000–61,000one-off | ≈ ₹20.5 lakh – ₹32.9 lakh |
| Living funds to show for the visaOr NZ$1,667 a month for courses shorter than a year; a sponsor can cover this instead. | NZ$20,000per year | ≈ ₹10.8 lakh |
| Health and travel insuranceStudentsafe University premium for a single student in 2026; a couple pays NZ$1,798. | NZ$899per year | ≈ ₹48,546 |
| Rental bond and first rentA bond is usually several weeks' rent and is refunded when you move out if there is no damage or unpaid rent. | NZ$1,000–2,500one-off | ≈ ₹54,000 – ₹1.4 lakh |
| Return ticket or funds for oneRequired on top of living funds; fares vary widely by season. | NZ$1,000–2,500one-off | ≈ ₹54,000 – ₹1.4 lakh |
Figures are rounded and come from university fee pages for 2026 and 2027. Check the exact fee on your course page, as it depends on the papers you choose. Many universities also charge a student services fee of about NZ$1,100–NZ$1,200 a year. Approximate exchange rates (based on ECB reference rates, March 2026). Actual rates on your payment date will differ.
Plan my monthly living costsCost of living in New Zealand
Universities estimate living costs at about NZ$18,000 to NZ$27,000 a year, with Auckland and Wellington at the top of that range. Immigration New Zealand asks you to show at least NZ$20,000 a year, which is a minimum rather than a comfortable budget in the larger cities.
| Per month | In NZD | Approx. in rupees |
|---|---|---|
| Rent: room in a shared flatFrom about NZ$140 a week for a room in a shared house; Auckland and Wellington cost more. | NZ$650–1,400per month | ≈ ₹35,100 – ₹75,600 |
| Rent: university hall or residence (alternative to a flat)University of Auckland residences cost about NZ$330–NZ$580 a week; halls often include power, internet and some meals. | NZ$1,450–2,400per month | ≈ ₹78,300 – ₹1.3 lakh |
| GroceriesAround NZ$80–NZ$120 a week for basic food. | NZ$350–520per month | ≈ ₹18,900 – ₹28,080 |
| Power and internet (your share in a flat)A whole house pays about NZ$200–NZ$300 a month for power and about NZ$90 for internet. | NZ$80–150per month | ≈ ₹4,320 – ₹8,100 |
| Public transportUp to about NZ$37 a week depending on distance; many students walk or cycle. | NZ$60–160per month | ≈ ₹3,240 – ₹8,640 |
| Mobile phonePrepaid and monthly plans start at around NZ$20. | NZ$20–50per month | ≈ ₹1,080 – ₹2,700 |
| Personal spending and outings | NZ$150–250per month | ≈ ₹8,100 – ₹13,500 |
| Rough monthly total | NZ$2,760–4,930 | ≈ ₹1.5 lakh – ₹2.7 lakh |
Monthly amounts are our estimates built from Education New Zealand and university figures for 2026. Choose either a flat or a hall, not both. Winters are cold and many older houses are poorly insulated, so heating bills rise from June to August.
Not sure what your budget covers?A counsellor can match universities and cities to your budget.
Scholarships
New Zealand universities offer international scholarships, including some specifically for students from India. Check each university's scholarships page and the Study with New Zealand website for current options.
University of Auckland India High Achievers Scholarship
University of Auckland
Value: 25% of one year's tuition
Who it's for: New master's students holding an Indian passport with a qualifying offer; for the 2027 intake, offers had to be issued by 20 October 2026.
Official page (opens in a new tab)University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
University of Auckland
Value: 25% of one year's tuition
Who it's for: New international master's students with a strong academic record; eligible students are invited to complete a short form.
Official page (opens in a new tab)VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship
Victoria University of Wellington
Value: NZ$10,000 off first-year tuition
Who it's for: New full-fee international students starting a master's or 120-point postgraduate diploma on campus; no separate application is needed.
Official page (opens in a new tab)VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship
Victoria University of Wellington
Value: NZ$15,000 off first-year tuition
Who it's for: New international students starting the first year of a bachelor's degree full-time on campus.
Official page (opens in a new tab)Lincoln University Taught Master's Scholarships
Lincoln University
Value: NZ$7,000–NZ$15,000
Who it's for: International students admitted to eligible taught master's programmes, based on final-year bachelor's grades; offered automatically.
Official page (opens in a new tab)University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship
University of Auckland
Value: Stipend of up to NZ$35,468 a year (2026) plus tuition fees and health insurance
Who it's for: PhD applicants with excellent academic records; considered when you apply for a doctoral place.
Official page (opens in a new tab)
Student visa: Fee Paying Student Visa
The Fee Paying Student Visa lets you study full-time with an approved New Zealand provider for up to four years, usually for the period you have paid fees for. You apply online, show that tuition is paid and that you have living funds, and meet health, character and genuine-student checks.
| Key fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa cost | From NZ$850, including the NZ$100 visitor levy |
| Processing time | 80% within 7 weeks; apply at least 3 months before travel |
| Living funds | NZ$20,000 a year (NZ$1,667 a month for shorter courses) |
| Tuition | First year or full course (if shorter) paid in advance |
| Insurance | Approved health and travel insurance for the whole visa period (PhD students exempt) |
| Maximum length | Up to 4 years, normally matching the period of paid study |
How to apply
- Choose a course with a provider that has signed the Code of Practice for the pastoral care of international learners, and get an offer of place.
- Pay tuition for the first year (or the whole course, if shorter) and get a fee receipt or confirmation from the provider.
- Arrange evidence of NZ$20,000 a year for living costs, plus a return ticket or the funds to buy one, either in your own name or through a sponsor.
- Get a chest X-ray from an approved panel clinic if you will stay more than six months, and a police certificate if you are 17 or older and will stay 24 months or more.
- Apply online with Immigration New Zealand and pay the fee and visitor levy; apply at least three months before travel, as October to March is the busiest period.
- Respond quickly if Immigration New Zealand asks for more documents or an interview; about 80% of applications are decided within seven weeks.
- Once approved, check your visa conditions (study, work hours, dates), arrange insurance from your course start date and book travel.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport (scan of the photo page)
- Recent passport-style photo that meets INZ standards
- Offer of place from an approved provider
- Proof that tuition fees have been paid
- Proof of living funds, such as bank statements, an education loan letter or sponsor documents (check INZ's list of acceptable evidence)
- Return air ticket or evidence of funds to buy one
- Chest X-ray certificate, if staying more than six months
- Police certificate from India, if you are 17 or older and staying 24 months or more
- Academic transcripts, English test results and a statement explaining your study plans
- Certified English translations of any documents not in English
Working while you study
From 3 November 2025, the standard in-study work limit rose from 20 to 25 hours a week. New student visas include the higher limit automatically. If your visa still says 20 hours, you need to apply for a change of conditions (NZ$325) or wait until your next visa.
| Rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| During study | Up to 25 hours a week, if your visa conditions allow work |
| Scheduled holidays | Full-time work, for courses worth at least 120 credits (usually one academic year) |
| Minimum wage | NZ$23.95 an hour for adults from 1 April 2026, before tax |
| Partners | Can apply for a work visa if you study a master's or PhD, or certain Level 7–8 Green List or post-study-eligible courses |
| Students under 18 | Aged 16–17 need written permission from a parent and the provider; 15 and under cannot work |
Post-study work visa: Post Study Work Visa
The Post Study Work Visa lets eligible graduates stay and work after finishing a New Zealand qualification. A degree-level visa gives open work rights for any employer and any job, so you do not need a job offer to apply. You can only hold one Post Study Work Visa in your lifetime.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Master's or PhD | Up to 3 years, with at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand |
| Bachelor's degree or Level 8 (e.g. postgraduate diploma) | Same length as the time you studied in New Zealand, as confirmed by your provider |
| Below-degree qualifications | Only if the qualification is on INZ's eligible list; work must relate to your studies |
| Family | Your partner can apply for a work visa and dependent children can study as domestic students |
| Cost | About NZ$1,670 (fee and immigration levy, October 2024 fee table); check INZ's fee tool for the current amount |
| What it can lead to | An Accredited Employer Work Visa, or residence through the Green List or Skilled Migrant Category if you meet their criteria |
Announced changes
Jobs and career opportunities
New Zealand's job market is small, and most graduate jobs are in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Demand is steady in health, engineering, IT and accounting, but employers often value New Zealand work experience, so part-time work and internships during study help. Some jobs, such as nursing, teaching and engineering, need local registration.
| Sector | Typical roles | Typical salary |
|---|---|---|
| Information technology | Computer programmer, systems analyst, database administrator | About NZ$66,000–NZ$153,000 a year (range across experience levels) |
| Data and analytics | Data analyst, business analyst, data scientist | About NZ$73,000–NZ$143,000 a year (range across experience levels) |
| Civil and environmental engineering | Civil engineer, environmental engineer, engineering technician | About NZ$74,000–NZ$154,000 a year for engineers (range across experience levels) |
| Nursing and health | Registered nurse, clinical nurse specialist | About NZ$83,000–NZ$99,000 a year for registered nurses |
| Accounting and finance | Accountant, auditor, credit analyst | About NZ$71,000–NZ$131,000 a year for accountants (range across experience levels) |
| Hospitality | Chef, cook, food service supervisor | About NZ$50,000–NZ$77,000 a year |
Salary ranges come from the government's Tahatū career pages and cover all experience levels, so new graduates usually start near the lower end. They are gross figures before tax.
Planning to study in New Zealand?Get a free shortlist of universities and courses that fit your marks, budget and timeline.
Best student cities in New Zealand
Auckland
The largest city and main job market, home to the University of Auckland and AUT and to about 55% of international students.
The most expensive city for rent; university residences cost about NZ$330–NZ$580 a week.
Wellington
The capital, with Victoria University of Wellington and jobs in government, law, technology and the creative industries.
Rents are close to Auckland levels and good flats go quickly before each semester.
Christchurch
The largest South Island city, home to the University of Canterbury and close to Lincoln University, with a growing engineering and technology sector.
Generally cheaper than Auckland and Wellington.
Dunedin
A small student city built around the University of Otago, known for health sciences and a strong student community.
Among the cheaper university cities, though many older flats are cold in winter.
Hamilton
Home to the University of Waikato, about 90 minutes by road from Auckland, with lower costs.
Rents are usually well below Auckland's.
Palmerston North
Massey University's main campus, with strengths in agriculture, veterinary science and business.
One of the more affordable university cities.
New Zealand vs other study destinations
| New Zealand | Australia | Canada | Ireland | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master's tuition (per year) | NZ$41,000–59,000 | A$30,000–55,000 | C$20,000–45,000 | €10,000–35,000 |
| Living funds to show | NZ$20,000 a year | About A$29,700 a year | C$23,448 a year (from Sept 2026) | About €10,000 a year (check current) |
| Master's length | 1–2 years | 1.5–2 years | 1–2 years | 1 year |
| Work during term | 25 hrs/week | 48 hrs/fortnight | 24 hrs/week | 20 hrs/week |
| Post-study work after a master's | Up to 3 years | Around 2 years | Up to 3 years | Up to 2 years (12 + 12 months) |
| Typical IELTS for a master's | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| Main intakes | February, July | February, July | September, January | September |
| Partner work rights | For master's, PhD and some Green List courses | Varies by course level | Limited to certain programmes | Not generally available |
New Zealand figures are from official sources checked in October 2026. Figures for the other countries are indicative and change often, so check each government's immigration website before deciding.
Challenges to plan for
- High upfront costsYou must pay a full year's tuition and show NZ$20,000 in living funds before the visa is granted, which means arranging a large sum or an education loan early.
- A small job marketWith about five million people, New Zealand has far fewer graduate jobs than Australia or Canada, and competition is strong outside health and engineering.
- Housing in Auckland and WellingtonRents in the two biggest cities take a large share of a student budget, and many older houses are cold and damp in winter.
- Residence is not automaticA Post Study Work Visa does not lead to residence by itself. Residence depends on finding skilled work and meeting Green List or Skilled Migrant Category rules, which can change.
- Distance from IndiaFlights are long and expensive, usually with a stop in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Australia, so visits home are less frequent.
Is New Zealand right for you?
A good fit if you…
- You want a master's degree with a clear route to up to three years of post-study work.
- You prefer a quieter, smaller city over a very large metropolis.
- You plan to work in a field New Zealand needs, such as health, engineering or IT.
- You are applying for a PhD and want local-rate tuition and family work rights.
- You want to take your partner with you and study at master's level.
Think twice if you…
- Your budget cannot cover a full year's tuition plus NZ$20,000 upfront.
- You are counting on part-time work to pay your tuition.
- You want the widest possible choice of employers after graduation.
- You are choosing a short below-degree course mainly for post-study work, as few of these qualify.
- You find long distances from family difficult to manage.
About New Zealand
New Zealand is a small, English-speaking island nation in the South Pacific, made up of two main islands and known for its mountains, beaches and outdoor lifestyle. All eight universities are public, and every one of them appears in the QS world rankings, so standards are consistent across the country. Te reo Maori and Maori culture are an important part of everyday life and campus life.
For Indian students, New Zealand offers a calm, safe-feeling study environment and a growing Indian community, mainly in Auckland. It is further from India than Australia, with no regular non-stop flights, and the cost of living is highest in Auckland and Wellington. Visa rules and work rights are set by Immigration New Zealand and should be checked before applying.
| New Zealand | At a glance |
|---|---|
| Official language(s) | English, Maori (te reo Maori) and New Zealand Sign Language |
| Population | about 5.36 million (30 June 2026 provisional estimate, Stats NZ) |
| Climate | Temperate: mild, wet winters in the north and colder winters with snow in the south; seasons are opposite to India, with summer from December to February |
| Time difference with India | New Zealand is 6 hrs 30 min ahead of IST (7 hrs 30 min from late September to early April, during daylight saving) |
| Flight time from Delhi | no regular non-stop flights; about 16-20 hours with one stop (for example via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Sydney) |
| Largest cities | Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington (capital), Hamilton |
| Currency | New Zealand dollar (NZ$, NZD) |
| Indian community | about 290,000 people identified as Indian in the 2023 Census (Stats NZ), one of the country's largest ethnic groups, mostly in Auckland |
Studying in New Zealand: FAQs
How much money do I need to show for a New Zealand student visa?
You must show that your first year's tuition (or the whole course, if shorter) is paid, plus NZ$20,000 a year for living costs and a return ticket or the money for one. For courses shorter than a year, the living amount is NZ$1,667 a month.
How many hours can I work while studying in New Zealand?
Most student visas granted since 3 November 2025 allow up to 25 hours a week during study and full-time work in scheduled holidays, if your course is at least 120 credits. If your visa still says 20 hours, you can apply to change it for NZ$325.
How long can I stay after my master's?
If you studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks, you can apply for a Post Study Work Visa of up to three years with open work rights. You can only get one Post Study Work Visa.
Is my three-year Indian bachelor's degree accepted for a master's?
Often yes, for postgraduate diplomas and longer 180 or 240-credit master's degrees. Shorter 120-credit master's usually expect a four-year or honours degree. Check each course's entry requirements before applying.
Can my spouse come with me and work?
If you study a master's or PhD, or certain Level 7–8 courses linked to the Green List, your partner can usually apply for a work visa. For other courses, your partner may only be able to come as a visitor.
Which English test do I need, and what score?
Universities accept IELTS Academic, PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT. As an example, the University of Auckland asks for IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) for most postgraduate study and 6.0 (no band below 5.5) for undergraduate study.
Can I get permanent residence after studying in New Zealand?
Some graduates do, but it is not automatic. You generally need skilled work and must meet the Green List or Skilled Migrant Category criteria at the time you apply. No agent can guarantee residence.
Is New Zealand cheaper than Australia?
Tuition is broadly similar, and the living funds required for the visa are lower in New Zealand. Rent in Auckland and Wellington is still high, so the total cost depends mainly on your city and course.
Sources
- Immigration New Zealand: Fee Paying Student Visa (opens in a new tab)
- Immigration New Zealand: Upcoming changes to student visa work rights (opens in a new tab)
- Immigration New Zealand: Staying to work after finishing your study (opens in a new tab)
- Immigration New Zealand: Fee and levy table from 1 October 2024 (PDF) (opens in a new tab)
- Education New Zealand: Update from Immigration New Zealand (25 March 2026) (opens in a new tab)
- Education New Zealand: Latest data shows continued growth in international enrolments (13 May 2026) (opens in a new tab)
- Study with New Zealand: Tuition fees and cost of living (opens in a new tab)
- Employment New Zealand: Minimum wage from 1 April 2026 (opens in a new tab)
- Stats NZ: People of Asian ethnicities in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2023 Census (PDF) (opens in a new tab)
- Ministry of External Affairs, India: Data on Indian students abroad (PDF) (opens in a new tab)
- Tahatū (NZ Government careers service): Explore career ideas (opens in a new tab)
- University of Waikato: International tuition costs (opens in a new tab)
- University of Auckland: Postgraduate fees for international students (opens in a new tab)
- Victoria University of Wellington: Studentsafe University insurance (opens in a new tab)
- Business Standard: New Zealand student visa rules for bringing spouse and children (March 2026) (opens in a new tab)
Rules and fees change
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