Universities in New Zealand

New Zealand is the favourite study destination among students that offers a world-class education system with top-notch teaching methods. A degree obtained from any of the universities of New Zealand is valued globally. The natives are very friendly and the lifestyle of the country is unmatchable. This island country has lavish breathtaking landscapes and coastlines that will make your study abroad journey an adventurous experience. Below we have discussed the top universities in New Zealand. 

Why Study in New Zealand?

Here are some top reasons why you must choose New Zealand as your study destination:

Globally Recognised Degrees

The Universities in New Zealand always rank high in QS World Rankings, Times Higher Education Rankings, and other major rankings of the world. The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) also ensures that institutions are registered to enrol international students and comply with qualifications standards.

Excellent Teaching Methods

New Zealand follows the UK education system that focuses on research-based teaching. The teaching method prepares you to deal with situations in an organised manner. Studying in a foreign country will also teach you to work independently and also as a team. Studying in New Zealand will encourage you to think critically implementing the concepts that you have learnt in the classroom. 

Innovation and Research 

The Universities in New Zealand offer abundant opportunities that help in innovation and research. New Zealand feels proud to obtain highly experienced faculty with well-equipped laboratories that give access to the latest technology and help creates various opportunities. The universities in New Zealand have created hubs in new technologies, research and development in different fields like healthcare, physics, geology, engineering, astronomy, computer science, agriculture, etc. The universities in the country have also won various Nobel prizes in research. 

Safe and Peaceful Environment

Safety is the first concern of the students who are planning to study abroad. Students at times fall victim to many activities while living miles away from their home country. But you can relax in the case of New Zealand as it ranks second on the Global Peace Index 2018*. It says that the country has social tolerance and political stability of the Kiwi democracy. So, if you are an international student then you’ll have the same rights as your Kiwi counterparts.

Intakes to Study in New Zealand

To study in New Zealand you must know the intake schedule to apply at the right time.. Following are admission intakes to study in New Zealand in 2023:

If you are planning to study in New Zealand then you should start your admission process 6 months earlier than the application deadline. Universities in general have 3 deadlines in one intake. Now it is up to your convenience of you to target the deadline. Also, you must be ready with your language and aptitude tests 3 months before the deadline. Take the whole 3 months time to fill out your application form without making any mistakes.

Top Universities in New Zealand with World Rankings 2023

Following are the top universities in New Zealand according to QS World University Rankings 2023:

Top Courses Offered by Universities in New Zealand

Listed below are the top courses offered by Universities in New Zealand:

• Animation
• Engineering
• Medicine
• Business Studies
• Engineering Forestry
• Hospitality
• IT and Computer Science
• Agriculture
• Art and design
• Nursing
• Trades
• Business management
• Health care
• Sports management

Top Student Cities in New Zealand

Following are the top student cities in in New Zealand:

• Wellington
• Auckland
• Hamilton
• Christchurch
• Dunedin

Admission Process for Top Universities in New Zealand

If you are planning to study in New Zeland in the upcoming intakes below are the basic eligibility criteria you need to fulfil: 

Eligibility Criteria

When submitting an application to a University in New Zealand, you must make sure you meet the following requirements:

• Students must have a 50% or higher in Standard XII to be accepted for admittance to an undergraduate program.
• A degree equal bachelor’s degree in New Zealand education will be considered for PG programs. Students must have at least a 2nd division bachelor’s degree.

English Language Score Requirements

Documents Required

• All official academic transcripts and grade cards
• Passport size photographs 
• Passport photocopy
• Updated CV/Resume
• Portfolio (if asked or required)
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores
• GMAT/GRE scores
• Letter of Recommendations
• Statement of Purpose
• Research Proposal (for PG Research)

Application Process

• The application process depends on on the level of the course and university to which you are applying. 
• The details of the application process will be available on the university website. Make sure you go through the application details carefully and check out the eligibility criteria.
• For UG, you can directly apply at the university website. For PG also you will mostly be required to directly apply through the application portal of your university.
• You will be required to submit your personal details, academic documents and some other documents such as your SOPs, LORs, proof of financial support etc.
• After your application is completed, you might also be required to pay an application fee.

Cost of Studying in New Zealand

The following table shows the average tuition fee for the courses available at Universities in New Zealand: 

Cost of Living in New Zealand

An international student studying in New Zealand is likely to spend around 13000 to 16000 NZ$ (INR 6-7 Lakhs) per year to study in the country. This cost is likely to remain the same throughout the courses. 

Accommodation is a major expense for international students. There are several housing options for students to choose from. There are hostels, apartments, dormitories, homestays as well as shared apartments. The average cost of accommodation for a three-four bedroom house is NZ$565 (INR 27k) per week, or NZ$215 (INR 10k) a room per week.

Scholarships at Top Universities in New Zealand

Following is a list of top scholarships offered by universities in New Zealand: 

Government-Funded New Zealand Scholarships

• Fulbright New Zealand US Graduate Awards.
• New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade Scholarships
• New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships

University-Specific New Zealand Scholarships

• Auckland University of Technology (AUT) 
• Lincoln University 
• Massey University Doctoral Scholarship
• Southern Institute of Technology
• University of Auckland International Student Scholarships
• University of Canterbury  
• University of Otago 
• University of Waikato 
• Michael Baldwin Memorial Scholarship
• Victoria University of Wellington
• Latin American Academic Achievement Scholarship

Other Scholarships in New Zealand

• AusIMM New Zealand Branch Education Endowment Trust Scholarships 
• Barbara Wood Memorial Foundation 
• Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan 
• Go Overseas Study Abroad Scholarship
• Reserve Bank of New Zealand University Scholarships 
• R. H. T. Bates Postgraduate Scholarship
• Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship 

FAQs

What are the basic English language requirements?

The basic and very common English language requirement for any course at any level is a 6.0 IELTS score or 80 on the internet-based TOEFL. The requirements also vary according to the criteria mentioned by every individual university. 

What are the accommodation options in New Zealand?

Almost all the universities in New Zealand offer on-campus accommodation facilities for international students who come from a long distance. Students can choose from apartments, separate houses or shared rooms. 

Am I eligible for scholarships?

Yes! If you fulfil the given criteria for the scholarships then you can be eligible for scholarships at any of the universities in New Zealand. 

Can I work part-time when I am studying in New Zealand?

Yes, you can work and study simultaneously. The country offers work permits for students who can work part-time during classes and full-time during the holidays. 

What are my chances of finding a job in New Zealand once I graduate?

The country of New Zealand offers a wide variety of opportunities. Engineers, tourism and hospitality graduates and medical professionals are in huge demand.