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Universities in New Zealand (2022 Guide)

universities in new zealand
A Complete Guide To

Universities in New Zealand

Chapter 1

Overview

Where can we find the best universities in the world? Basically, in any country, even in New Zealand! There are several top-ranked institutions in New Zealand that compete with some of the world’s most prestigious international universities.

In the learning and academic communities, New Zealand’s colleges, universities, research universities, state schools, and law schools are well regarded and well-known, and they continue to provide outstanding Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D degrees for smart, driven explorers like you. In this article, you will explore all the top and affordable universities from where you can get your degree.

Why Study in New Zealand?

Globally recognized qualifications

New Zealand’s 8 institutions typically rank well in QS World Rankings* and Times Higher Education Rankings, and degrees from any of them are recognized worldwide, offering doors to opportunities everywhere. The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) also guarantees that institutions are authorized to enrol overseas students and that they meet qualification requirements.

Excellent pedagogy

New Zealand’s schooling system, which was influenced by the UK’s, emphasises on research-based education, which means you’ll learn how to deal with circumstances in a methodical and organised manner. At various stages, you’ll be taught how to work individually as well as in a group. You will be encouraged to think thoughtfully, ask questions, and benefit from student engagement while studying here. You’ll also be using what you’ve learnt in class and coming up with fresh solutions to issues.

Innovation and research

New Zealand provides a diverse range of research opportunities for students.The country has highly qualified professors, well-equipped laboratories, and exposure to the most up-to-date technology, equipment, and possibilities. Its inventive attitude has turned it into a centre for new technologies, studies, and advancement in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, physics, geography, engineering, astronomy, computer programming, and agriculture.

Great scope for PhD scholars

As a PhD student, you would have access to extra benefits in addition to the huge research options. You’ll be paying the same tuition as residents, and unlike other students enrolled, you’ll be able to work full-time while studying.

Safe and peaceful

New Zealand is ranked 2nd in the Global Peace Index 2018, which measures the country’s social tolerance and good governance. You’ll have the same privileges as Kiwi students as an overseas student.

Quality of life

New Zealand offers a wonderful multi-cultural environment that complements the country’s busy outdoor lifestyle. New Zealand exudes wanderlust with its diverse natural vistas, which range from snow capped mountains and volcanic volcanoes to rolling lush greenery, golden beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. Every kid who lives here has the opportunity to thrive as a result of the city’s rich culture and natural beauty.

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Studying in New Zealand Requirements

Universities in New Zealand, such as the University of Otago, University of Auckland, Victoria University of Wellington, University of Canterbury, and Massey University, each have their own entrance requirements that any candidate requesting admission must complete.

Despite the fact that these standards vary, some are required in all institutions.

All programs and universities in New Zealand need language assessments and prerequisites. The most common English language competency exams in the nation are IELTS (minimum of 5.5), TOEFL, and PTE.

For any undergraduate course, candidates must have completed NCEA level 3 or New Zealand year 13. Graduate candidates, on the other hand, must have great academic performance as well as sufficient funds to cover all of their educational expenditures.

It’s also crucial to have all of the necessary documentation on hand, as well as a valid visa for New Zealand education. Note that candidates for MBA programmes will be asked to have GME or GMAT scores.

Chapter 2

Top Universities in New Zealand

1. University of Auckland

The University of Auckland, which first opened its doors in 1883, is often recognised as New Zealand’s top-tier college in terms of employability. During the early 1930s downturn, there was a surge in interest in academic study. A group of students founded the literary newspaper Phoenix, which eventually became the focal point of New Zealand’s first literary period. The University of Auckland is divided into eight colleges, two main research institutions, and a number of additional institutes and centres. 

More Information

% International Students

18 %

Total International Students

7,426

Male/Female Ratio

1 : 1.33

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 2.42

No.of Campuses

4

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 8.3 Lakh

2. University of Otago

The Otago Provincial Council passed an ordinance in 1869 that founded the University of Otago. The institution was given 100,000 acres of land and the right to issue degrees in health, the arts, music, and law at first. The university first opened its doors in July 1871, with only 3 faculty members and a facility on the Princess Street site of John Wickliffe House. 

More Information

Total International Students

2,837

Size of Campus in acres

111

No.of Campuses

5

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 9.0 Lakh

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3. AUT University

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a public owned higher education and research school that was founded in 2000. The Auckland Technical School was established in 1895 to provide students with evening education. The college changed its name to Auckland Technical College and began providing daytime sessions. The institution was given university status in 2000, and so received its current name.

Air New Zealand, NASA, Spark, and Orion Health are among the many large and small organisations with whom AUT collaborates.

More Information

Total International Students

5,600

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 1.51

No.of Campuses

3

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 5.7 Lakh

Alumni across World

95,000

Students belonging to

107 countries

4. Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington was established in 1897 after an act of parliament was passed. As it was the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s coronation in 1897, it was titled after her. Roughly 17000 students are enrolled at the institution, with around 4000 of them being international students.

It has 3 campuses, with the Humanities and Social Science, Health, Engineering, Social Science, and Education faculties being located in Kelburn, NZ.

More Information

Total International Students

3,400

Male/Female Ratio

1 : 1.26

No.of Campuses

4

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 6.4 Lakh

Students belonging to

80 Countries

5. Massey University

Massey University is unique among New Zealand institutions in that it has three campuses in Palmerston North, Auckland, and Wellington where it can provide research-driven education and design & development. Teaching and research in applied zones such as engineering technology, agribusiness, finance, healthcare, food technology, computer science, marketing, and accounting demonstrate Massey’s strong linkages with industry and commerce, which contribute to economic growth.

Foreign students who come to Massey University will discover a warm, welcoming environment to learn in, as well as an academic one where they will be understudies encouraged to surpass expectations.

More Information

Total International Students

4,300

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 1.7

No.of Campuses

3

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 5.9 Lakh

Students belonging to

More than 100 countries

6. University of Canterbury

The Institution of Canterbury in New Zealand was established in 1873 and is Aotearoa New Zealand’s third university. It was once known as Canterbury Institution and was the University of New Zealand’s original constituent college.

The university campus was originally located in central Christchurch, but in 1975 it was relocated to Ilam, a leafy suburb. The Ilam campus is around 5 kilometres from the city centre of Christchurch. It is bordered by large natural spaces, and the Avon River, which flows close to University Drive, contributes to the campus’s physical splendour.

More Information

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 1.64

No.of Campuses

1

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 9.1 Lakh

University Type

Research Oriented

Research Institutes & Centres

27

7. University of Waikato

The University of Waikato is a NZ public education and research institution that was founded in 1964. The Hamilton Teachers’ College was founded in 1956 as a result of a petition, and the university status was granted in 1964.

The college’s main campus, which is located in Hamilton, has 158 acres of land. Administrative offices, labs, classrooms, libraries, dormitories, and recreational facilities are all located on the campus. In addition, it owns a campus in Tauranga. The university’s library system consists of 3 libraries spread over three campuses.

More Information

Total International Students

2,000

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 1.6

No.of Campuses

2

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 6.4 Lakh

8. Unitec Institute of Technology

Unitec Institute of Technology is the city’s biggest technology institute, and it is located in Auckland, New Zealand.

The institute’s main campus is located in Mt Albert. It has a number of significant academic and departmental structures. In Henderson, the institution maintains a second campus. A vast and varied student body attends the institution. More than 16,800 kids are served by its educational institutions. It offers a variety of certificate and postgraduate degree programmes in topics ranging from architecture to accountancy to zookeeping. It also provides programmes in other countries.

More Information

Total International Students

2,000

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 1.6

No.of Campuses

2

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 6.4 Lakh

9. Lincoln University - New Zealand

Lincoln University is a public higher education institution with a good reputation. Since its founding in 1878, the School of Agriculture has undergone various structural and name changes. Since 1961, Lincoln College has been a component college of the University of Canterbury, but in 1990 it became an independent university.

More Information

% International Students

48 %

Total International Students

1,500

Size of Campus in acres

143

Male/Female Ratio

1 : 1.04

Faculty/Student Ratio

1 : 13.5

No.of Campuses

1

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 6.2 Lakh

Rigorous coursework & research provided

3.7k+ UG & PG students

10. Auckland Institute of Studies

AIS St Helens was the previous name for Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS). It is one of New Zealand’s largest privately held degree-granting schools, having been created in 1990. It began in Auckland’s downtown area. Three years after its founding, the institution relocated to Albert, Auckland, and turned the former St Helens Maternity Hospital facility into a secondary residential campus. The Institute is currently associated with the Centre for Research in International Education (CRIE). In addition, the New Zealand Qualifications Authority has approved all of its programmes (NZQA).

More Information

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 0.38

No.of Campuses

2

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 5.4 Lakh

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11. Wellington Institute of Technology

Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) was founded in 1904 as the Petone Technical School and changed its name to Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) in 2001. It is one of New Zealand’s oldest tertiary institutions, although it has changed through time to embrace current procedures while retaining a concentration on teaching practical skills.

Every year, the Institute educates around 6,100 students. It provides a wide range of industry-driven credentials, from trades to degrees and postgraduate studies. Business, architecture, creative, technology, health care, hospitality, information technology, and tourism are among the disciplines covered by the curriculum.

Male/Female Ratio

1 : 0.42

No.of Campuses

4

12. Manukau Institute of Technology

Manukau Institute of Technology was established in 1970 and is the biggest institute of technology in Auckland, NZ. It is located on the junction of Manukau Station Road and Davies Avenue in Manukau’s major business district. In addition, the institution is regarded as one of New Zealand’s leading providers of professional, industrial, and commercial education. This institution provides courses in business, digital technology, nursing, fine arts, logistics, health, and counselling, among other areas. This school is well-known for its fully integrated teaching environment.

More Information

No.of Campuses

4

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 3.0 Lakh

13. Eastern Institute of Technology

The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) is a government institution of higher learning in New Zealand that was founded in 1975. The Hawke’s Bay Polytechnic was established in 1987 and was formerly known as Hawke’s Bay Community College. The institution’s present name was given to it in 1996.

EIT’s main building is in a neighborhood of Napier City, in the Hawke’s Bay area of New Zealand. It is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and stunning buildings, providing students with an ideal study environment.

More Information

Total International Students

1,006

Size of Campus in acres

67

Male/Female Ratio

1 : 1.27

No.of Campuses

3

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 3.9 Lakh

14. Southern Institute of Technology

The Southern Institute of Technology is a government institute and New Zealand’s largest technological institute. SIT was founded in 1971 and quickly became known for its Zero Fees Scheme. As a result, overseas students’ tuition fees are kept low and accessible. The institute offers a variety of certificate and postgraduate programmes, as well as route courses in several specialisations.

All New Zealand nationals and permanent residents enrolled in SIT are eligible for tuition-free schooling, saving them money on big loan fees after graduation.

More Information

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 0.62

No.of Campuses

5

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 2.3 Lakh

Rigorous coursework & research provided

13k+ UG & PG students

15. Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology

Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology was established in 2016 as a result of a merger between Bay of Plenty Polytechnic and Waiariki Institute of Technology. This school offers approximately 200 courses in a variety of areas at 86 different locations. Furthermore, the institute’s programmes specialise in a variety of lucrative industries, including business, commerce, trades, art and design, forestry, and health. This institute is one of the major postsecondary institutions in the Bay of Plenty, and it funds a number of profitable research programmes across all of its locations. Many important organisations, such as TANZ Ecampus and Tertiary Education Partnership, have formed substantial connections with it.

% International Students

14 %

Male/Female Ratio

1 : 1.17

UG/PG Course Ratio

1 : 0.26

No.of Campuses

5

Yearly Hostel & Meals Expense

Rs. 5.9 Lakh

Chapter 3

Affordable Universities in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to some of the world’s best institutions, which provide a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. Here is a list of New Zealand universities with low tuition fees.

#1. The University of Waikato

The University of Waikato is a New Zealand university based in Hamilton. The institution was founded in 1967 with the primary goal of meeting the academic requirements of residents in the Southern Auckland area, and it has worked diligently to achieve that goal.

The University of Waikato is known for being one of the cheapest institutions in New Zealand for overseas students, with tuition fees of NZD 25,915 ($18,725) for undergraduate programmes and NZD 31,615 ($22,840) for graduate programmes.

#2. Victory University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington, founded in 1897, is among New Zealand’s most inexpensive public institutions.

With more than 23,000 students on three campuses, the institution is ranked No. 229 in the global top 500 universities by QS World Rankings.

3700 overseas students are among the 22,000 students. Undergraduate students’ tuition fees are around NZD 26,150 ($18,895) each year, while graduate students’ tuition fees are approximately NZD 29,050 ($20,990) per year.

#3. University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury is among New Zealand’s greatest and most inexpensive institutions. Since its founding in 1873, the institution has welcomed both domestic and international students.

The institution now has about 15,000 students enrolled in various degree programmes, and it is ranked #270 by QS World University Rankings in 2021.

The university is known for offering a diverse selection of programmes and scholarships at various levels.

Tuition at Canterbury is quite low. Undergraduate tuition costs around NZD 27,000 ($19,510) annually, while graduate tuition costs around NZD 30,250 ($21,855) per year.

#4. University of Otago

The University of Otago, founded in 1869, is New Zealand’s first institution. Because of its academic prowess and great student experience, it is recognised in the top 1% of universities worldwide.

With nearly 21,000 students, the institutions are divided into four academic divisions: schools, sections, departments, and institutions.

It is also recognised as one of the most cheap institutions in New Zealand due to its low tuition fees.

Undergraduate tuition fees start at NZD 27,156 ($19,620) annually, while graduate tuition fees start at NZD 22,712 ($16,410) annually.

#5. Massey University

Massey University is one of New Zealand’s most affordable institutions. The institution stands out among New Zealand’s greatest universities because it provides research-driven teaching and training in 3 locations: Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington.

Currently, the college has over 30,200 students, including 5,300 international students from various nations.

The only institution in New Zealand that offers degrees in aviation, conflict resolution, veterinary science, and nanomaterials is Massey University. It is now ranked 287th in the University rating system.

This institution is one of the cheapest universities in NZ for both national and foreign students, with tuition fees of NZD 27,770 ($20,065) and NZD 31,010 ($22,405) for undergraduate and graduate programmes, respectively.

#6. Lincoln University

Lincoln Institution is a New Zealand university that was founded in 1990 after Lincoln College, Canterbury split off from the University of Canterbury. Nevertheless, with roughly 2700 students, including 1200 foreign students, the university is New Zealand’s smallest institution.

This school is distinguished by its emphasis on sustainable techniques, which ensure that production does not come at the price of the environment.

Most overseas students choose the school as their study destination since it is one of the most economical New Zealand universities due to its low tuition.

Undergraduate tuition starts at NZD 29,100 (US$21,025) annually, while graduate tuition starts at NZD 29,100 (US$21,025) annually.

#7. Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology is New Zealand’s 2nd largest, fastest-growing, and cheapest university. It was founded in 1895.

The university has 3 campuses in Manukau, Northcote, and Auckland, with a total student population of 30,000, including 4,300 international students from 107 countries.

The annual price for undergraduate studies starts at NZD 30,092 (US$21,740), while graduate programmes start at NZD 32,095 (US$23,190).

#8. Whitireia New Zealand

Whitireia was founded in 1986 and is among New Zealand’s most cheap universities. About 7500 students study in the university’s campuses in Wellington, Auckland, Wellington, Kpiti, and Porirua.

The annual tuition rate for undergraduate studies at Whitireia starts at NZ$21,390, while postgraduate programmes start at NZ$23,650.

#9. Waikato Institute of Technology (WINTEC)

In Hamilton, New Zealand’s foremost institute of technology, WINTEC, is located. Every year, the university welcomes 20,000 students from 52 nations.

Wintec now provides more than 130 degrees, diplomas, and certifications with a focus on applied tertiary education for nurses, caseworkers, midwives, graphic designers, performers, engineers, tradesmen, early childhood educators, horticulturists, arborists, and athletic scientists.

Because of the reasonable high-quality programmes offered, the institution is considered among the cheapest universities in New Zealand. Undergraduate programmes cost around NZ$ 21,000, while graduate programmes cost around NZ$ 20,000.

#10. The University of Auckland

The Institution of Auckland was established in 1883 as a public research university in New Zealand. In the QS World University Rankings, it is the top ranked New Zealand university.

The university now has approximately 40,000 students on 5 campuses in Auckland, making it New Zealand’s largest institution by enrollment. It’s worth noting that the institution has eight faculties, including a school of law, as well as 4 research centres.

Chapter 4

Employability and Salaries

Top Universities in NZ with High Graduate Employability

Universities

Graduate Employability Ranking

The University of Auckland

#59

University of Otago

#251-300

Victoria University of Wellington

#251-300

University of Canterbury

#301-500

Massey University

#301-500

Lincoln University

#89

University of Waikato

#301-500

Auckland University of Technology

#301-500

Salaries for International Students in NZ

The table below displays New Zealand’s Top Recruiters and their average salary for 2021:

Top Recruiters

Average Salary (in NZD)

ANZ Group

180,000

Vodafone

123,000

EY

75,000

BNZ

72,000

Deloitte

70,000

In 2021, the average pay of New Zealand graduates are as follows:

Professions

Average Salary (in NZD)

Financial Services

183,000

IT & Software Development

105,000

Compliance, AML, KYC & Monitoring

136,000

Engineering

89,000

Insurance Jobs

86,000

Legal Department

204,000

Executive Management & Change

170,000

In 2021, the following is the average pay of New Zealand graduates based on the programmes they chose at top universities:

Courses

Average Salary (in NZD)

Master in Finance

158,000

PhD

156,000

Executive Masters

150,000

Bachelor (others)

131,000

LLM

124,000

MBA

123,000

Scholarships in New Zealand

Studying in New Zealand is cheap if you prepare ahead of time to apply for a variety of scholarships given by Kiwi colleges and universities before the due dates. These financial aid packages are offered to meritorious international students to assist them in financing their education. Depending on the prerequisites, course, and university, they might be partially or fully supported. Many scholarships and fellowships are offered by the New Zealand government, as well as several business and public organisations. Double-check the qualifying conditions as well as the application deadlines before applying for any of these scholarships.

Depending on the university, the amount of money offered and the form of reward varies. Certain research programmes may pay for up to 100% of your tuition as well as a portion of your living expenses. You may encounter more rivalry when applying for government scholarships than when applying for college scholarships. As a result, we recommend starting the treatment 8 to 12 months before your planned intake date.

As an Indian student, you can apply to the following popular scholarship programmes:

  • New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
  • New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
  • New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
  • NZ-GRADS New Zealand Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarship
  • SEG Scholarship
  • Palmerston North City Mayor’s Goodwill Ambassador Scholarship

Cost of Living in New Zealand

Basic costs

You’ll require between $20,000 and $25,000 per year ($380 to 480 a week) for housing/rent, food, commuting, telephone bill, internet usage, and entertainment, in contrast to your tuition and healthcare fees. The average living expenditure would be the same for everyone, regardless of their tuition or course price. Please keep in mind that these are only suggestions; the Immigration New Zealand threshold is $15,000 per year including return travel or an extra $2,000.

General expenses

Cost (in NZ dollars)

Rent (per month)

$800–$950

Groceries (per week)

$100–$150

Gym membership (per year)

$300

Entertainment (per week)

$50

Milk (per litre)

$3

Coca Cola (per can)

$2

Cup of Coffee

$3–$5

Lunch from University food hall or campus café

$7–$12

Local calls made from a cell-phone

$0.50–$1.50

Taxi - 5 km ride

$10–$12

Movie ticket

$10–$14

Visit to doctor

$45–$85

Miscellaneous Cost

You’ll need between $20,000 and $30,000 in addition to your tuition and healthcare. Students should be aware that if they are registered in a study that lasts shorter than three years or 36 months, they will be required to pay $12,500 per month to cover the costs. In this instance, the students may be required to create a FTS account and have their living costs remitted to that account. This may be required prior to receiving a final stamp on the study visa.

Other Costs

During your studies, you may incur additional costs. Textbooks and stationery, medical and dental fees, a quarterly or yearly insurance charge, weather-appropriate apparel, and weekend vacations are all examples. Because there are no generalisations, these prices will vary from person to person.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s educational programmes and degrees are based on the most widely recognised and certified educational system in the world: the British system. New Zealand is known across the world for providing high-quality education. It boasts a forward-thinking educational system with several cutting-edge amenities. It provides foreign students with a secure learning atmosphere as well as outstanding academic possibilities and support services. Studying in New Zealand is also significantly less expensive than in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, or Canada.

New Zealand provides some particular advantages over other nations as a place for education, combining the advantages of a developed nation with the appeal of a tranquil and beautiful countryside. From thrills and adventures to sheer hedonistic relaxation and enjoyment, New Zealand is the perfect outdoor adventure playground.

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