New Zealand is globally recognized for its exceptional education system, offering international students an opportunity to study in a high-quality academic environment. The country’s universities consistently rank among the world’s top institutions, providing cutting-edge programs and research opportunities across various fields. Moreover, New Zealand offers a unique, culturally diverse environment where students can learn alongside peers from around the world. The nation’s rich cultural heritage, combined with its reputation for political stability and a high standard of living, makes it a preferred destination for students seeking both academic excellence and a vibrant life experience.
However, while the benefits of studying in New Zealand are immense, understanding the costs involved is essential for international students. From tuition fees to living expenses, the financial commitment can vary based on factors such as course type, university, and city. This guide aims to provide a detailed breakdown of all associated costs, including scholarships and financial aid options that can help mitigate expenses.
At MSM Unify, we have helped more than 1,86,000 students navigate their study abroad journeys. With access to over 50,000 programs across 1,500+ campuses in 21 countries, we provide expert guidance to help you choose the best university to studying in New Zealand and program, ensuring your study abroad goals are met efficiently.
The cost of tuition in New Zealand varies based on the course, institution, and level of study. Here’s a breakdown:
Program | Annual tuition fees (NZD) |
Undergraduate Degree | NZD 20,000 – NZD 40,000 approximately |
Postgraduate Degree | NZD 26,000 – NZD 45,000 approximately |
PhD (Domestic rates for international students) | NZD 6,500 – NZD 9,000 approximately |
MBA | NZD 31,000 – NZD 50,000 approximately |
Medicine (specialized fields) | 35,000 – 75,000 approximately |
Please note: Tuition fees vary significantly by field of study. For example, humanities degrees tend to be on the lower end, while specialized programs like medicine and engineering are costlier.
The cost of living in the country will depend on your location and lifestyle. Major cities like Auckland and Wellington are more expensive than smaller cities such as Dunedin and Hamilton. Here’s a general breakdown:
Expense | Average monthly cost (NZD) |
Accommodation (shared) | NZD 800 – NZD 1,200 approximately |
Food | NZD 300 – NZD 500 approximately |
Utilities (water, electricity) | NZD 100 – NZD 200 approximately |
Transport | NZD 100 – NZD 150 approximately |
Entertainment | NZD 100 – NZD 200 approximately |
Please note: Overall, students should budget NZD 15,000 to NZD 27,000 annually for living expenses. Universities like Auckland recommend setting aside around NZD 25,000 per year.
Also, note that the actual expenses will significantly depend on your lifestyle, requirements, and spending habits.Â
Costs also vary considerably based on the specific course you choose to study. Below is a table to help you learn about the varying tuition fees for some popular study programs.
Field of study | Average annual fees (NZD)) |
Arts and Humanities | NZD 22,000 – NZD 28,000 approximately |
Engineering | NZD 30,000 – NZD 45,000 approximately |
Medicine | NZD 35,000 – NZD 75,000 approximately |
Business and Management | NZD 28,000 – NZD 40,000 approximately |
Natural Sciences | NZD 26,000 – NZD 35,000 approximately |
Please note: Medicine and specialized fields have higher costs compared to humanities and social sciences.
Before arriving in New Zealand, international students should account for several pre-arrival expenses as mentioned below:
After arriving in New Zealand, students will incur these additional costs:
New Zealand’s cities vary in terms of living costs. Here’s a comparison of the most popular student cities:
| City | Annual living cost (NZD) |
| Auckland | NZD 25,000 – NZD 35,000 approximately |
| Wellington | 22,000 – 30,000 approximately |
| Christchurch | 20,000 – 27,000 approximately |
| Hamilton | 18,000 – 24,000 approximately |
| Dunedin | 15,000 – 21,000 approximately |
Please note: Auckland and Wellington are more expensive, while Dunedin is one of the more affordable cities for students. Also, note that the actual expenses will significantly depend on your lifestyle, requirements, and spending habits.
Numerous scholarships to studying in New Zealand are available to help offset the costs of studying in New Zealand. Some notable ones include:
MSM Unify can assist you in finding and applying for scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying in New Zealand.
New Zealand offers world-class education with a unique cultural experience, but understanding the costs is crucial for international students. Tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs can add up, but scholarships and part-time work opportunities provide financial relief. MSM Unify Overseas Education Consultant is here to support your study abroad journey, offering personalized guidance and access to over 50,000 programs across 1,500+ campuses worldwide.
By partnering with MSM Unify, you can find the most suitable institution, navigate scholarships, and prepare financially for your academic journey. Let us help you turn your dream of studying in New Zealand into a reality.
Cost of studying in New Zealand
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The cost varies based on the program but typically ranges from NZD 22,000 to NZD 45,000 annually.
On average, students spend between NZD 15,000 and NZD 27,000 per year on living expenses.
Yes, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and work full-time during holidays.
You need proof of admission, evidence of NZD 20,000 for living expenses, and health insurance to apply for a student visa.
Health insurance costs approximately between NZD 200 and NZD 700 per year
Accommodation costs range from NZD 800 to NZD 1,200 per month, depending on the type of housing and location.
Scholarships like the New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS), the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship, and the New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships provide financial aid for tuition and living costs. MSM Unify can help you identify and apply for scholarships tailored to your needs.
The minimum cost of living for students is approximately NZD 15,000 annually, but it can go up to NZD 27,000 depending on the city and lifestyle.
International students pursuing PhD need to pay the same as domestic students, which typically range from approximately NZD 7,000 to NZD 9,000 each year.
Yes, international students can apply for a post-study work visa, which allows you to work in New Zealand after completing your degree. The duration of the visa depends on your qualifications.
MSM Unify is a student marketplace that connects students with educational institutions and recruitment partners worldwide. We unify and allow everyone in the industry to work collaboratively to reach the world’s curious learners and provide them with a host of options when it comes to their education.
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