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Top Universities in New Zealand for International Student

Are you planning to study abroad and looking for top universities in New Zealand? Then you are at the right place. The natural beauty of New Zealand is well known, but there is much more to the country than its stunning environment. New Zealand is unquestionably the safest country to study in, ranking fourth on the Global Peace Index 2023. It has the appropriate blend of possibilities, culture, economy, and climate for an international student to succeed, with globally renowned universities and an excellent education system. Not to be missed, its untouched scenery will make your visit worthwhile. Besides these, New Zealand is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking to pursue higher education abroad. Colleges in New Zealand have an excellent education system that focuses on offering research facilities as well as an outstanding quality of life. Let's delve into this blog to find out New Zealand universities ranking, courses offered, eligibility, and many more.

Why study at Top University in New Zealand?

A desire to pursue higher education and acquire a degree can be easy, exciting, and time-consuming, especially if you choose one of the best universities in New Zealand. Whether you want to achieve a different perspective from the top of the Southern Alps, the Silence of beaches, the dynamic energy of metropolitan cities, or the salty wind of the coast, New Zealand has it all. Below we have listed the top reasons why you should start your career at one of New Zealand's top universities or colleges.

1. Internationally Accepted Universities

The country offers high-class education programs and courses that are recognized globally and accredited by the British Education System. Lots of universities in New Zealand have attained a place in the QS world ranking.

2. Affordable Tuition Fee and Cost of Living

The basic cost of pursuing higher education in New Zealand is much lower than in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, or Australia. Furthermore, living expenses, fresh food, lodging, and transportation are easily available across the country at reasonable prices. Low study and living costs along with high-quality education might be crucial factors in selecting a university in New Zealand for higher education.

3. Study and work opportunity

The eligibility criteria of universities and colleges in New Zealand are highly minimal which makes it easier for overseas students to take admission to their desired course or university. Candidates are permitted to work in several sectors like hospital, retail, finance, banking, etc. while studying at the University of New Zealand on their student visa.

4. Destination of Quality Education:-

New Zealand is highly famous for its quality education with advanced facilities and practical methodology on the campus. The government of New Zealand is also monitoring the education system in the country to ensure the best quality of education for overseas students.

5. Safe and Secure

As per the global peace index New Zealand is the safest country to live among the top safest country in the world. The citizens of New Zealand respect different cultures which makes the country safe for overseas students. 

6. Land of Beauty

New Zealand is a country of beautiful places, lakes, mountains, and beaches. Those who are crazy about adventures can enjoy the fun of different activities like white water rafting, skiing, and mountain biking.

List of Top Universities in New Zealand

Choosing the best university is a vital part of a candidate's career. With all the world-class features of a top university, a candidate can achieve success with a blend of excellence. Here are some of the top-ranking universities in New Zealand. 

University 

QS Ranking 

University of Auckland

68         

University of Otago 

206

Victoria University of Wellington

241

Auckland University of Technology 

407

Massey University

239

Lincoln University 

362

University of Waikato

250

University of Canterbury 

256

1. University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is the biggest and well-known university in New Zealand which was founded in 1883. Auckland University offers more than 200 courses for overseas students. Candidates who want to apply for admission to the university should have a bachelor's or 10+2 certificates with a GPA of 5 out of 9 scale i.e. (85%). The University of Auckland is also popular for its best returns on investment in graduate degrees. With valid documents and additional requirements like English proficiency, student visa, CV, etc.,  as prescribed by the University, any overseas student can apply for the admissions process at the University of Auckland.

2. University of Otago

The University of Otago founded in 1869 under an act of the Otago Provincial Council has four campuses throughout New Zealand and is located in Dunedin. The University of Otago provides several courses of graduate-level, Ph.D., and postgraduate-level programs in various domains of education. With a huge number of international students and strong connections with several international institutions, the university aims to offer students an international perspective and career opportunities across the world. Overseas students with a minimum CBSE or ICSE score of 75% and 70%  are qualified to study at the University of Otago. For the PG and Doctorate programs, there is a requirement for a research proposal.  Academic transcripts, CVs, and immigration documents are the other mandatory documents essential for admission.

3. Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington, founded in 1897, is a global civic institution in the heart of New Zealand's dynamic capital city. The University's diverse student community includes around 22,000 students, including international students from over 100 countries. The University is proud of its expertise in research, teaching, and transformative involvement that is both locally and globally accepted. The institution offers over 100 undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, doctorate, and online courses in various subjects which are ranked among the top 50 in the world. With all the essential valid documents of academic transcript, English proficiency, CVs, LOR, etc. according to the requirements listed by the university, any international student can apply for the admission process. Victoria University has a dedicated place for students, graduates, and ex-students looking to step ahead with their education and start their careers in New Zealand.

4. Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a publicly owned higher education and research university. In 1895, Auckland Technical School was established but was given university status in 2000, giving rise to its today's name. The Association of Asia Pacific Business Schools (AAPBS), the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and the Consejo Latinoamericano de Escuelas de Administración (CLADEA) are all affiliated with AUT. The University also works with a variety of large and small organizations, including NASA, Air New Zealand, Spark, and Orion Health. AUT offers nearly 250 programs in art, design, economics, science, business, education, engineering, and other fields. Auckland University of Technology (AUT) has an ambition to produce prominent graduates. The university provides unique learning experiences that train students to be successful anywhere in the world their profession may take them.

5. Massey University

Massey University (MU) is a highly popular and respected university in North Auckland, a highly populated city in New Zealand. The university provides several professional courses to overseas students for admission into the graduate and post-graduate programs at the most prestigious university in New Zealand. Massey University is a highly advanced and research-based university that is ranked among the top 3 universities in the world. The university has more than 37 bachelor’s courses, approximately 50 master’s courses, 3 doctoral programs, and various diploma and certificate courses. Among all the courses of the university MBA is the most popular course. To get admission to Massey University a candidate needs to have a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a scale of 4. I.e. 82-83%.

6. Lincoln University

Lincoln University is one of New Zealand's oldest education institutions and the country's exclusive specialty land-based university. The University, which was founded in 1878 as a School of Agriculture, has long been respected for its land-based teaching and research.  It has a specialized position in areas of learning that are significant across the globe, such as agribusiness, agricultural science, soil, plant, food, and animal science, bio protection and biosecurity, and others. The university campus has over 3500 students from 60 countries. There are a total of 237 faculty members who specialize in their teaching standards. Lincoln University has 19 bachelor's degree programs (including 9 honors) and 18 majors in agriculture.

7. The University of Waikato

The University of Waikato is a public higher education and research institution in New Zealand. The university was founded in 1956 through a petition, and it was granted university status in 1964. The university is divided into seven faculties, one school, and one college, and offers a broad range of courses in the arts, social sciences, mathematics, education, health Science, commerce, language, mass communication, and others. The university offers 135 different courses, including anthropology, psychology, applied linguistics, aquaculture, biotechnology, communication design, and data analytics. It also has around 2000 international students from over 80 different countries. The university holds academic relations with various educational establishments and organizations across the world, which enables exchange programs that equip students with foreign exposure and increased learning. The University of Waikato offers 150 undergraduate and postgraduate programs in 9 faculties. Among these Ten programmes are listed in the top 200 in their respective fields.

8. University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury in New Zealand was founded in 1873. It was previously known as Canterbury College and was the first college to join the University of New Zealand. Whether it's a personal or academic difficulty, the university's specialized Student Care team is always available to help. There are five faculties at this university: the faculty of Arts, the faculty of Engineering, the faculty of Science, the faculty of Education, the faculty of Health and Human Development, and the Faculty of Business and Law. There are also around 35 research institutes. Each of these colleges provides a variety of degree programs. The University of Canterbury offers overseas students to study in 150 academic areas at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels. In addition, students can pursue certifications, degrees, and certifications of Proficiency at the university. The admission criteria for admission to the University of Canterbury differ by program. For international students interested in graduate programs, a minimum GPA of 6.0 on a 10.0 scale (55%) is required.

Documents Required to Study in New Zealand for International Students

Below are the listed essential documents required to gain admission to a top university in New Zealand. 

Cost of Study in New Zealand

The cost of study in New Zealand is also a major concern for many students before applying for admission to any university. However, the fee structure for various programs in universities is different. Hence, here we are providing you with an average cost of studying in the best colleges in New Zealand for various degree programs. 

Program 

Average Tuition Fee Annually 

Diploma courses 

1,200-1,800 NZ$

Bachelor’s Courses

22,000-32,000 NZ$

Master’s Courses

26,000-37,000 NZ$

PhD

6,500-9,000 NZ$

Cost of Living in New Zealand

An overseas student in New Zealand is estimated to spend an average cost of living in New Zealand while studying is approximately 1300 NZ$ to 16000 NZ$ a year on several expenses like entertainment, power, transportation, phone & internet, and food. Additionally, accommodation is a main expense for overseas students. There are many housing options available in New Zealand like hostels, apartments, dormitories, homestays, and shared living. The average cost for a room per week in New Zealand is around 215 NZ$.

Conclusion

New Zealand has experienced tremendous growth in the number of students choosing this country to study. The best quality of education with high-class technology and the best faculty across the world is attracting many overseas students to enroll in New Zealand's universities. Although there could be many reasons to enroll in top universities in New Zealand, it is advised to research the desired university and make the right decision that will provide you with an admission offer from one of the above-mentioned universities. For your assistance we the career clinic are here for you, Reach out to us with all your queries.

Who are we?

Career Clinic is India's top abroad education consultancy, providing students with the best support and guidance to ensure an easy and smooth admission to a prestigious university across the globe. So, if you're ready to study abroad, apply for the next 2024 intake with us right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning to pursue your higher education in New Zealand then you must be aware that there is no requirement for the IELTS exam. You can either provide proof that you have studied English from 8th grade to 12th  in your home country or you can opt for other English proficiency exams like TOEFL, PTE, CAE, and others.

We would suggest you do not take any gap year in your study. But even if you have any gap year you must be aware that you are eligible to apply to the University of New Zealand with a gap of 10 years. Yet applicants have to submit information or documents regarding what he or she was doing during the gap year.

Working in a country after studying is desired by many students studying abroad. If you are studying in New Zealand and planning to work in New Zealand then you may be qualified to work on a work visa for up to 3 years after the completion of your study if you will have the required qualification for working in New Zealand.

There are various scholarships and financial aid opportunities available in New Zealand for overseas students, both from the government and particular universities. The New Zealand International Doctoral Research grants, New Zealand Development Scholarships, and university-specific grants are available for international students across the globe. For more details regarding scholarships, you should check out the official website of the university in which you desire to study.

For your information getting admission into the universities of New Zealand is not difficult. However, the University of Auckland has the lowest acceptance rate for students. The University of Auckland has an acceptance rate of 45%, with approximately 4 out of 10 students getting admission here. However, if you didn't get admission to the University of Auckland then worry not. Other top universities in the country provide the best education similar to the University of Auckland.