We all know New Zealand is a beautiful country, but there’s a lot beyond its picturesque landscapes. It is emerging as one of the topmost preferences among Indian students wanting to study abroad. With an excellent education system, internationally accredited qualifications, ample research opportunities and a matchless quality of life, New Zealand has a lot to offer. While studying here, you can be assured of a welcoming and friendly society with an excellent support system for international students. Here are some of the top reasons why you should New Zealand for your further education.

Globally recognized qualifications

All eight universities of New Zealand consistently rank high in QS World Rankings and Times Higher Education Rankings, and qualifications from any of these are accredited across the globe, opening doors to prospects everywhere.

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) also ensures that institutions are registered to enroll international students and comply with qualifications standards.

Innovation and research

New Zealand provides abundant opportunities in research for students. The country boasts of highly experienced faculty, well-equipped laboratories, access to latest technology, equipment, and opportunities.

What is the criteria for applying to scholarships to study in New Zealand for Indian students?

The most important criterion for most scholarships is a good academic score, however, it also depends on factors such as your chosen destination, subject and level. In some scholarships, factors like extracurricular activities, and volunteering can also be used to advantage. Keep in mind that every scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. While in some, a mere application may suffice, while for others you may have to fulfil several other conditions. For instance, in research-centric programs, you may have to submit written assignments. Do not hesitate to contact your IDP international education expert if you have any doubts.

What amount of money is available through scholarships?

The amount of money available and the type of award varies between institutions. Certain research programs may provide up to 100% of the tuition fee besides covering a part of your living expenditures. You may experience higher competition when you apply for government scholarships in comparison to the university scholarships. So, we suggest you start with the procedure about 8-12 months before your preferred intake begins. 



Studying in New Zealand can be affordable if you plan well in advance so you can apply to a range of scholarships offered by the Kiwi universities and colleges before deadlines. Open to meritorious international students to help them fund their studies, these financial aids can be partial or fully paid, depending on the criteria, course and the institution. Many scholarships and bursaries are also offered by the New Zealand government, and various private and public establishments as well. When applying to any of these scholarships, make sure you check the criteria carefully, along with the application closing date. 

What is the criteria for applying to scholarships to study in New Zealand for Indian students?

The most important criterion for most scholarships is a good academic score, however, it also depends on factors such as your chosen destination, subject and level. In some scholarships, factors like extracurricular activities, and volunteering can also be used to advantage. Keep in mind that every scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. While in some, a mere application may suffice, while for others you may have to fulfil several other conditions. For instance, in research-centric programs, you may have to submit written assignments. Do not hesitate to contact your IDP international education expert if you have any doubts.

What amount of money is available through scholarships?

The amount of money available and the type of award varies between institutions. Certain research programs may provide up to 100% of the tuition fee besides covering a part of your living expenditures. You may experience higher competition when you apply for government scholarships in comparison to the university scholarships. So, we suggest you start with the procedure about 8-12 months before your preferred intake begins. 



 The New Zealand Government provides an opportunity to all Indian students to study in the country but as a prerequisite, you’ll have to obtain a student visa first. The visa you need will depend on the type of study you want to pursue, and how long you intend to stay in New Zealand.

 Documentation required for New Zealand’s Fee Paying student visa

Your passport, which must be valid for at least three months after your period of stay in New Zealand A letter of acceptance from a New Zealand education provider, which states the minimum course duration, total tuition fee and whether the tuition fee is in domestic and foreign currency. The course must be approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority An offer of place from an educational institution approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority a written guarantee from an institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand (if you’re under 18 years)A return air ticket to your country, or evidence of sufficient funds to buy one.

Some additional documentation may include::

Academic preparation documents such transcripts, diplomas, degrees or certificates

Current application form – student visa application form

Visa application fee

Tuition fee receipt showing payment to date

Passport-sized photographs 

You may also have to show evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses throughout the period of your stay. You will need to show you have NZ$ 15,000 for a full year of study or NZ$1,250 per month*.

This may include:-

A scholarship program Bank statements

Financial undertaking by a sponsor to cover accommodation and living costs

Evidence that you are leaving New Zealand after the completion of your course. This can be in the form of flight tickets, however, it is optional

 A police certificate if you are aged 17 years or over and plan to study for more than 24 months. A police certificate is a document which is used as evidence of good character

An X-ray certificate – you will need to have a chest x-ray if you are staying in New Zealand for more than six months, or if you’re a citizen of a country with a relatively high incidence of tuberculosis, or if you’ve spent more than three months in the last five years in a country with a relatively high incidence of tuberculosis

Full medical examination  

English language requirements

To gain your New Zealand student visa, you’ll have to provide evidence of proficiency in the English language. This usually means passing a secure English language test to be able to prove your communication and correspondence skills.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular high-stakes English language proficiency test for study, work and migration, with more than three million tests taken in the past year. The IELTS results are recognized by more than 10,000 organisations, including educational institutions, employers, professional associations and governments, in 140 countries around the world.

The minimum IELTS score required for your New Zealand student visa is 5.5 band in each module. 

The highest level of education and qualifications at all levels is provided by the universities which offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. There are many flexible pathway programs as well that are provided by a variety of institutions in the system to help gain admission into these universities.
New Zealand also has many lot of Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) and Private Training Establishments (PTEs) that offer vocational degree-level education, certification and diploma.

Qualifications framework
The foundation of New Zealand education system lies in the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Secondary and tertiary qualifications that come under the NZQF come with quality assurance and global recognition.

Pathway programs

A great way for international students to enter higher level education is through pathway programs. These include foundation courses and English language programs that offer additional support or assistance international students may require so as to get accustomed to a new way of learning.

Fee structure

New Zealand offers an array of value-for-money educational programs. Tuition fee vary on the type of course and its duration since each institution has its own fee bracket. As with most other countries, medicine, engineering and MBA programs can be slightly more expensive than other courses. To cover tuition fees, you will usually need somewhere between NZ$ 22,000 and NZ$35,000 a year (indicative).

Financial aid

In order to reduce your tuition fee expense, you can turn to certain financial aids available. These may include scholarships, grants, bursaries and fellowships. These aids are provided by the government as well as private institutions. Since a lot of students apply to these scholarships, we recommended you to apply in advance to beat competition.

Academic year

New Zealand offers two intakes under its higher education programs – July and February. Admissions for vocational courses may also be available in March, April and May while pathway programs may have additional dates available. Always check for available intakes in your course of preference.

Learning English

Since all your classroom learning and communication in everyday life will take place in English, it is important for you to be proficient in the language. If your command over the language is limited, you may be advised to enroll for an English language program before the commencement of your program of study. These courses may be full-time or part-time and are provided by a range of private institutions and universities. Please note that language courses in the universities may be full-time.

Unlike a single intake in Indian universities, New Zealand universities and institutions offer two major intakes. In some universities, intakes may also be referred to as a semester.

The two intakes available in New Zealand are:

Semester 1: February to June

Semester 2:  July to November

Admissions for vocational courses may also be available in the months of March, April and May.

Which intake to opt for?

It can get a bit confusing to choose the intake that’s best for you. Consider factors like the availability of your preferred program, your academic records, entrance test scores, acceptance rates, job opportunities and your readiness to join the program whilst making a decision.

While most Indian students prefer the July intake, February intake is equally good for certain programs. We suggest, if you do not have your score cards ready, it’s better to skip the haste and apply for the next intake. 



Studying abroad can be an expensive affair. However, an efficient budget plan can help you manage your living expenses more effectively. Before you depart from India, ensure that you consider expenses like accommodation, food, health coverage and travel along with your tuition fee when calculating the estimated cost of studying in New Zealand. 

1. Tuition fee is your prime expenditure

Your expenditure on the tuition fee depends on the type of qualification and university or school you opt for. There are many high-ranking universities and colleges in New Zealand with their own fee structures. To cover tuition fees, you will need between NZ$ 22,000 and NZ$35,000 a year (indicative). 

Most commonly humanities, arts and education courses are cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. If you wish to study at postgraduate level, the tuition fees are typically higher and the costs vary depending on the program. As with most other countries, MBA programs are often the most expensive. The average cost for these programs ranges between NZ$31,000-50,000 (indicative).

2. Where will you live? Calculate accommodation costs

Most universities in New Zealand offer on-campus residence facilities called the Halls of Residence to international students. Living as a resident on-campus is a very affordable option. However, you need to apply for it separately, and well ahead in time to secure a slot for yourself. These will generally cost you around NZD 215-NZD 555 per week (depending upon the city and type of accommodation). You can choose from either fully-catered or self-catered Halls of residence.  

Most universities in New Zealand offer on-campus residence facilities called the Halls of Residence to international students. Living as a resident on-campus is a very affordable option. However, you need to apply for it separately, and well ahead in time to secure a slot for yourself. These will generally cost you around NZD 215-NZD 555 per week (depending upon the city and type of accommodation). You can choose from either fully-catered or self-catered Halls of residence.  

If you reach before the date of your tenancy, you can book temporary accommodation at youth hostels such as the YMCA. These are good value-for-money accommodations and a great avenue to meet new people. You can also choose to stay in student residence halls (approx. $200 per week), shared flats (approx. $120 per week), or private flats (approx. $180 per week) during your course in New Zealand. 

3. Cost of your student visa

To study in New Zealand, the first step is to secure a valid student visa and that comes with its own costs (approx. NZ$ 270). . 

4. Living expenses

You need to keep a little money aside for your grocery shopping, social activities and emergencies. When living in a foreign country as a student, it is better to keep track of your expenditures so that you do not overspend. Considering various expenses and living costs, a tertiary student budget in New Zealand comes between NZ$ 13,000 and NZ$ 16,000 per academic year (indicative). You should also consider these common expenses when creating your budget:

If you want to study in New Zealand for more than a year, then you‘ll need to show that you have at least $15,000 to cover your living expenses for the first year. But, if you’re studying for less than one year, you must have at least $1250 for each month of your study program to contribute as your living expenses.

5. Keep safe. Consider health support and insurance

It is mandatory for all students travelling to New Zealand from India to get medical insurance before the commencement of their program. Several New Zealand schools and universities have initiated comprehensive health insurance plans for international students, but that is applicable as long your program is ongoing and ceases upon completion. 

Certain colleges may not offer any insurance, and hence you will have to arrange for private medical insurance (your IDP counsellor will guide you with the same). The average cost for medical insurance ranges between NZ$ 200 – NZ$ 700 a year (indicative). Extensive health and support services are readily available for all Indian students in New Zealand. 

Health insurance is quite affordable for international students. For instance, yearly health and travel insurance cover in association with Student Safe (a popular choice with students) is approx. $590. The cheapest international student health insurance is Orbit Protect which costs approx. $454 for a year.