Cost of Studying in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to world-class universities and institutions recognised globally for their academic excellence, research innovation, and strong commitment to international student success. Coupled with stunning natural landscapes, a safe and inclusive society, and an exceptional quality of life, New Zealand continues to be a leading destination for students worldwide.

While studying in New Zealand offers a rich and rewarding experience, it’s important to plan your finances carefully to ensure you can maintain a comfortable lifestyle and stay focused on your academic goals.

Student Expenses in New Zealand

Tuition Fees for International Students

Tuition fees in New Zealand vary depending on the university, course, and level of study:

• Undergraduate degrees typically cost between NZD $20,000 and $35,000 per year.
• Postgraduate taught programmes, such as Master’s degrees, range from NZD $56,220 to $70,120 for the full course.
• PhD students, uniquely, pay the same tuition fees as domestic students. These are around NZD $6,500 to $7,500 per year for most disciplines.

In addition to tuition, students may need to pay university service charges, such as student services levies, which generally fall between NZD $900 and $1,200 per year.

Cost of Living in New Zealand

To gain a student visa, the New Zealand Government requires international students to show proof of at least NZD $20,000 in annual living expenses, or NZD $1,667 per month for shorter study durations.

Annual living costs can vary depending on where in the country you choose to study. For example:

• North Island cities, such as Auckland and Wellington, typically require a budget of NZD $20,000 to $27,000 per year.
• South Island cities, such as Christchurch and Dunedin, tend to be slightly more affordable, with estimated costs of NZD $18,000 to $24,000 annually.

These figures account for essentials including rent, food, transport, internet, and personal spending, though individual lifestyles may influence costs.

Accommodation Options

There are a variety of accommodation types available to suit different preferences and budgets:

• University Halls of Residence: These range from NZD $180 to $700 per week, often including meals and utilities.
• Homestays: Living with a local family offers a cultural experience and costs around NZD $300 to $370 per week, including meals.
• Private rentals or shared flats: Students in shared housing can expect to pay NZD $200 to $350 per week, while one-bedroom apartments typically range from NZD $400 to $550 per week.

Student Visa for New Zealand

To study full-time in New Zealand, you will need to apply for a Fee Paying Student Visa. Key details include:

• Duration: Valid for up to four years

• Application fee (offshore): NZD $750
• IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy): NZD $100
• Total payable at application: NZD $850
• Living cost requirement: NZD $20,000 per year
• Processing time: 80% of applications are processed within five weeks

Lifestyle and General Expenses

Below is a guide to average weekly or monthly costs across New Zealand:

• Mobile phone plan (monthly): NZD $20–$40
• Internet (shared, monthly): NZD $70
• Utilities (per person, monthly): NZD $100
• Groceries (weekly): NZD $100–$120
• Public transport (one-way): NZD $2.50–$5.00
• Gym membership (monthly): NZD $40–$70
• Cinema ticket: NZD $15
• Dining out (casual meal): NZD $20–$25
• Medical appointment (with insurance): NZD $15–$60
• Prescription medication: NZD $5 per item (subsidised)
• Student medical and travel insurance: Approximately NZD $400 per semester

Scholarship Support

Several scholarships are available for international students studying in New Zealand, including:

• Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships: Offered to students from developing countries
• New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA): Jointly funded by Education New Zealand and participating universities
• University-specific awards: Available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes

Scholarships are usually awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, or financial need. You can explore available opportunities using StudyIn’s free Scholarship Finder Tool.

Working During Study

Most universities in New Zealand provide dedicated career support services, including:

• On-campus career centres
• Access to part-time job listings
• Internships and work-integrated learning programmes

These services are designed to help you gain valuable work experience and build connections in your chosen field.

Work Rights

While studying in New Zealand, international students are allowed to:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during term time
• Work full-time during scheduled holidays

Partners of postgraduate students (Master’s or PhD) may be eligible for open work visas, and dependent children may be eligible for domestic student status in New Zealand schools.

Study in New Zealand

If you have questions about tuition fees, living costs, student visas, or funding options in New Zealand, our experienced education counsellors are here to help. Arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today.