While New Zealand may not be the cheapest study destination for international students, it is still possible to study there on a budget with careful planning and budgeting.
It’s recommended that Indian students research their program and institution of interest and budget carefully to ensure they have enough funds to cover the school fees in New Zealand.
Additionally, the quality of education and the experience of living in New Zealand can make it a worthwhile investment for many students.
Read on as we discuss the tuition fees in New Zealand for international students and other major costs to study in New Zealand.
Cost of Study in New Zealand
The cost to study in New Zealand can vary depending on the level of study, institution, and location. Here are some approximate costs to give you an idea:
Tuition fees
The tuition fees in New Zealand for international students can vary depending on the level of study, institution, and program. Generally, undergraduate programs tend to be more affordable than graduate programs.
The average annual tuition fees for programs in New Zealand are as follows:
- Bachelor’s degree: NZD 22,000 to NZD 32,000 per year
- Master’s degree: NZD 26,000 to NZD 37,000 per year
- PhD: NZD 6,500 to NZD 9,000 per year
However, school fees in New Zealand for professional courses such as medicine, engineering, and law can be higher.
It’s important to note that the tuition fees in New Zealand for international students are higher than for domestic students. Additionally, Indian students may need to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores, to be accepted into a program.
Accommodation
It’s important to note that accommodation costs in New Zealand can be high, especially in major cities such as Auckland and Wellington. It’s recommended that Indian students research their accommodation options and budget carefully to ensure they have enough funds to cover their expenses while studying in New Zealand.
Below is an estimate of the accommodation cost in New Zealand:
- Homestay: NZD 240 to NZD 280 per week
- Shared apartment or flat: NZD 120 to NZD 250 per week
- On-campus accommodation: NZD 200 to NZD 350 per week
Accommodation options for Indian students studying in New Zealand include homestays, student apartments, hostels, and rental properties. Here is an overview of each option:
- Homestays: Homestays are a popular option for international students, including Indian students. This involves living with a local family, who provide a room and meals for a weekly fee. This can be a good way to immerse yourself in the local culture and improve your English language skills.
- Student apartments: Many universities and colleges in New Zealand offer on-campus accommodation in student apartments or dormitories. These apartments are typically fully furnished and include shared amenities such as kitchens, lounges, and laundry facilities. This can be a convenient option for Indian students who want to live close to campus.
- Hostels: Hostels are another affordable option for international students, including Indian students. Hostels typically offer shared rooms or private rooms with shared amenities such as kitchens and bathrooms. This can be a good option for students who want to live in a social environment and meet other international students.
- Rental properties: Indian students can also choose to rent a property off-campus, alone, or with other students. This can provide more independence and privacy but may also require more responsibility, such as finding a suitable property and managing bills and maintenance.
Living expenses
In New Zealand, the living expenses for daily life can be costly but it does not have to be. Listed is an average of the expenses:
- Food: NZD 70 to NZD 150 per week
- Transportation: NZD 20 to NZD 50 per week
- Personal expenses: NZD 50 to NZD 100 per week
The cost of food in New Zealand can also be relatively high compared to other countries. Indian students may want to budget for groceries and meals at restaurants or cafes. Cooking at home can be a more affordable option, and many universities and colleges have shared kitchens for students to use.
Also, Indian students may need to budget for transportation expenses such as bus or train fares, or the cost of owning a car. Many universities and colleges offer discounted or free public transportation passes to students.
Ways to Save Money in New Zealand
One of the ways to study affordably is to choose a university or institution that offers lower tuition fees in New Zealand for international students. For example, some of the more affordable universities in New Zealand include the University of Waikato, Massey University, and Lincoln University. Additionally, choosing to study outside of major cities such as Auckland or Wellington can also save on living expenses.
Another way to save money as an international student in New Zealand is to look for scholarships and grants. There are a variety of scholarships available to international students to help cover school fees in New Zealand, living expenses, or both. The New Zealand government, universities, and private organizations all offer scholarships and grants for international students.
Working while studying is also a viable option for international students in New Zealand. Students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks. This can help cover the costs to study in New Zealand and provide valuable work experience.
Finally, it’s important to be mindful of expenses and budget carefully. This includes finding affordable accommodation, cooking at home instead of eating out, and using public transportation instead of owning a car.
Learn more about New Zealand. Browse through MSM Unify to get started.
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