List of Best Universities in New Zealand 2025
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According to QS Ranking 2025, the University of Auckland is the number 1 university in New Zealand but do you know about other best universities in New Zealand for International students? Know about top universities in New Zealand including their ranking, popular courses and tuition fees.
Over the years New Zealand has emerged as a top study-abroad destination. There are only eight universities in New Zealand but the quality of education is unparalleled. The University of Auckland is the number 1 university in New Zealand. Other than this, there are some other renowned educational institutes in the country.
The University of Otago, renowned for its medical and health sciences programs, consistently ranks among the top in the country. If you want to study a course related to law, humanities, and social sciences then Victoria University of Wellington can be a great choice for you. In this blog, you will get to know about the top universities in New Zealand, their ranking, popular courses and their respective fees. Our goal is to assist you in selecting the top university for your studies in NZ.
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Top Universities in New Zealand 2025
Students wanting to study in New Zealand can check out the list of best universities in New Zealand:
| Top Universities in New Zealand | QS World University Ranking 2025 | Times Higher Education (THE) 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| The University of Auckland | #65 | #152 |
| University of Otago | #214 | 351-400 |
| University of Waikato | #235 | 401-500 |
| Massey University | #239 | 501-600 |
| Victoria University of Wellington | #244 | 401-500 |
| University of Canterbury | #261 | 501-600 |
| Lincoln University | #371 | 401-500 |
| Auckland University of Technology | #412 | 401-500 |
Check out:
Best Universities in New Zealand
Read the following section for more details about the universities in detail below.
University of Auckland
Formally opened in 1883, The University of Auckland is regarded to be the top-tier University of New Zealand in terms of employability of graduates. The university includes faculty of arts, business school, science faculty, creative arts faculty and industries, medical faculty and health sciences, education faculty and social, faculty of engineering, faculty of law, Liggins Institute, Auckland Bioengineering Institute, and a variety of research institutes and centres. Check: The University of Auckland - Courses
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
| Courses | Duration | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 12 - 16 Months | INR 24.9L |
| BE/BTech | 3 Years | INR 15.7L - 19.1L |
| MArch | 2 Years | INR 17.1L |
| MS | 12 - 24 Months | INR 17.1L - 18.7L |
| BSc | 3 Years | INR 14.8L - 15.9L |
| MIM | 1 - 1.5 Years | INR 15.3L - 23.2L |
| BBA | 3 Years | INR 14.8L |
| MEng | 1 - 1.5 Years | INR 18.4L |
University of Otago
The University of Otago was established in 1869 under an act of the Otago Provincial Council. The University of Otago offers a broad spectrum of graduate-level, PhD, and postgraduate-level programs in several fields of education like finance, economics, entrepreneurship, business, management, marketing, medicine, pharmacy, law, arts, social sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, zoology, botany, and computer science. Read more: University of Otago – Courses
| Courses |
Duration |
Tuition Fees First Year |
|---|---|---|
| MBA |
15 – 24 months |
21.8 Lakhs |
| MIM |
12 months |
21.3 Lakhs |
| MS |
12 – 24 months |
15.6 – 19.5 Lakhs |
| BSc |
36 months |
12.4 – 15.2 Lakhs |
| BE/BTech |
36 months |
15.2 Lakhs |
Victoria University of Wellington
Victoria University of Wellington was formed in 1897 by an act in the parliament. It offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It has a faculty of around 1,000 members who are dedicated to providing comprehensive and quality education. Victoria University has around 40 research institutes and centres giving students the best possible resources to have practical knowledge. Check out: Victoria University of Wellington – Courses
| Courses |
Duration |
Tuition Fees First Year |
|---|---|---|
| MBA |
16 – 20 months |
13.1 Lakhs |
| MS |
12 – 24 months |
11.9 – 25.3 Lakhs |
| MIM |
12 – 24 months |
13.5 – 20.2 Lakhs |
| BSc |
36 months |
13.9 Lakhs |
| MEng |
12 months |
16.8 Lakhs |
University of Canterbury
The University of Canterbury in New Zealand was founded in the year 1873 and is the second university in Aotearoa New Zealand. This university has five colleges namely the College of Arts, College of Engineering, College of Science, College of Education, Health and Human Development, and College of Business and Law. It also has over 35 research institutes. Each of these colleges offers various degree programs in arts, commerce, technology, fine arts, sports, music, law, and health sciences. Many programs are focused on teaching, physical education, forestry, and language pathology. Read: University of Canterbury – Courses
| Courses |
Duration |
Tuition Fees First Year |
|---|---|---|
| MBA |
15 months |
22.2 Lakhs |
| BE/BTech |
36 months |
14.4 – 17.2 Lakhs |
| MEng |
12 – 15 months |
20.7 Lakhs |
| BSc |
36 months |
16.6 Lakhs |
| MS |
12-24 months |
18 – 20.7 Lakhs |
Massey University
Massey University is special among New Zealand universities on account of its capacity to deliver research-driven teaching and research training on three campuses in Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington. Massey has a wide scope of scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students which are at present accessible for application. As a student at Massey University, you can avail a wide scope of study support services and resources that are intended to assist you with improving scholarly aptitudes at all levels of study. Check: Massey University – Courses
| Courses |
Duration |
Tuition Fees First Year |
|---|---|---|
| MEng |
12 months |
15.8 – 17.8 Lakhs |
| MS |
12 – 24 months |
16.5 – 18.3 Lakhs |
| MIM |
12 – 18 months |
14.4 Lakhs |
| BE/BTech |
36 – 48 months |
13.8 – 16.8 Lakhs |
| BBA |
36 months |
13.8 Lakhs |
University of Waikato
Founded in 1964, the University of Waikato is a public institution for higher education and research in New Zealand. The university has seven faculties, one school, and one college offering a plethora of programs in arts, social science, mathematics, education, health, business, language and mass communication, engineering, and management. It provides courses in 135 subjects such as anthropology, psychology, applied linguistics, aquaculture, biotechnology, communication design, and data analytics. Read: University of Waikato – Courses
| Courses |
Duration |
Tuition Fees First Year |
|---|---|---|
| MIM |
12 months |
14.1 – 21.6 Lakhs |
| BBA |
36 – 48 months |
13.8 – 14.4 Lakhs |
| MS |
12 – 24 months |
14.6 – 16.4 Lakhs |
| BSc |
36 months |
13.8 – 14.4 Lakhs |
| MEng |
12 months |
17.9 Lakhs |
Lincoln University
Lincoln University is a highly-ranked public institution for higher education and research. Lincoln University has three faculties offering a range of career-focused diplomas and undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level degree programs. It also has the University Studies and English Language Division that renders two teaching programs in the English language. The university offers specialization in the disciplines of agriculture, engineering, sciences, computing, business, commerce, landscape architecture, environment, horticulture, forestry, property valuation, sports and recreation, transport, food, winemaking, viticulture, tourism, and hospitality. Go to: Lincoln University - Courses
| Courses | Duration | Tuition Fees First Year |
|---|---|---|
| BSc | 3 Years | INR 14L - 14.4L |
| MS | 24 Months | INR 13.2L - 15.5L |
| MIM | 1 Year | INR 18.5L |
| BHM | 3 Years | INR 13.2L |
| MArch | 1 Year | INR 18.5L |
Auckland University of Technology (AUT University)
Established in 2000, Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a publically-owned institution for higher education and research. The academic structure of the Auckland University of Technology has five faculties, which further subdivide into 17 schools. The university offers over 250 programs in varied disciplines of art, design, economics, science, business, education, engineering, mathematics, computer science, clinical studies, creative technologies, communication studies, languages, psychology, nursing, tourism and hospitality, law, public health, social science, and sports. Check out: AUT University - Courses
| Courses | Duration | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 12 - 16 Months | INR 24.9L |
| BE/BTech | 3 Years | INR 15.7L - 19.1L |
| MArch | 2 Years | INR 17.1L |
| MS | 12 - 24 Months | INR 17.1L - 18.7L |
| BSc | 3 Years | INR 14.8L - 15.9L |
| MIM | 1 - 1.5 Years | INR 15.3L - 23.2L |
| BBA | 3 Years | INR 14.8L |
| MEng | 1 - 1.5 Years | INR 18.4L |
Popular Universities in New Zealand
The Universities mentioned above are the top universities in New Zealand in 2024. Candidates can also check out popular universities in Australia here:
- Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec)
- Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)
Know more about the universities below.
Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec)
WelTec is a leading provider of quality tertiary education and training programs. The courses are designed to equip students with the skills they need to pursue rewarding careers in industry and commerce. WelTec certificates, diplomas, degrees, and graduate diplomas are NZQA-accredited. WelTec also offers City and Guilds and other international qualifications so that students’ qualifications will be well-recognized - both in New Zealand and overseas. Read more: Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) - Courses
| Courses | Duration | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| BBA(1 Course) | 3 Years | INR 8.5L |
| BE/Btech(4 Courses) | 3 Years | INR 8.9L - 9L |
Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)
Established in 1975, the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) is a government-run institution of higher education in New Zealand. EIT offers over 130 academic programs across diverse disciplines at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It extends degrees in agriculture, grape-growing, winemaking, computing, art and design, business, fashion, hospitality, music, health sciences, nursing, social sciences, and creative studies. The institution also offers short courses, certificate and diploma programs across various disciplines. Check: Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) - Courses
| Courses | Duration | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MIM | 1.5 Years | INR 8.5L |
| MS | 18 Months | INR 9.9L |
| BE/BTech | 3 Years | INR 9.5L |
| BBA | 3 Years | INR 9.2L |
The above tabular data has been sourced from Shiksha Study Abroad from an earlier date. The numbers could vary subject to the current economy.
In recent years, New Zealand has been witnessing consistent growth in the number of students who opt to study in universities overseas. The quality of education and a conducive learning environment has contributed to being a destination of choice for many international students. Feel free to write to us regarding any query in the comments section below.
Related Reads:
| List of Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) in New Zealand |
List of Private Training Establishments (PTEs) in New Zealand |
FAQs Related to Best Universities in New Zealand
Q. Which are the top ranked universities in New Zealand?
A. Here is the list of 8 best universities in New Zealand for indian students. These universities are well known for high stamndard education and offer a diverse range of academic programs and contribute significantly to New Zealand's reputation as a global education hub
- The University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- University of Waikato
- Massey University
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- Auckland University of Technology
Q. Which university of New Zealand is best for international students?
A. University of Auckland is the no 1 university in New Zealand. The university provides excellent academic programs, vibrant student life, and ample opportunities for international students.
Q: Is New Zealand good for Indian students?
With a good educational system, excellent quality of life, and a number of research opportunities, New Zealand offers a lot to international students. Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand has a 39 percent population of overseas citizens, making it a culturally diverse city. Moreover, the post-study work visa in New Zealand can offer up to three years of stay back. As per Stats New Zealand, its unemployment rate is 3.4 percent. Students enrolled in a course of 12 months or more can also work part-time in New Zealand for up to 20 hours a week during the semester and holidays.
Q: Which course is better, Master in Management or Master in Project Management at the University of Auckland, New Zealand?
The University of Auckland offers the best UG and PG programs for international students at an affordable tuition fees. Auckland Unversity Master in Project Management is slightly better than the Master in Management because of its tuition fees for first year. Mentioned below is the tuition fees for first-year for international students:
| Program | First Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| Master in Project Management | INR 25.11 L |
| Master in Management | INR 26.11 L |
Q: How much funds are needed for a New Zealand study visa?
International students need to show sufficient funds for getting a New Zealand student visa. Students need to show NZ$ 20,000 for a full year of study or NZ$ 1,250 per month for getting a New Zealand study visa.
Cost of New Zealand Student Visa Application
- New Zealand Visa Cost: Students who are submitting their Student Visa Application online are required to pay a base Visa fee of NZD 375 which is INR 19,200 (approximately).
- Candidates who are applying for their Student Visa online from New Delhi are required to pay NZD 430 which is INR 22,000 (approximately) as the receiving centre fees.
- Those applying for a student visa in New Zealand on paper (offline mode) should note that the immigration costs would be INR 22,600, in addition to this students are required to pay a receiving Centre fee of INR 1,520.
Q: What is the cost of studying in New Zealand?
The tuition fees that a student would need to pay will depend on the type of qualification and the university they are looking at to pursue their education. While courses such as humanities, education, and arts are likely to cost less pursuing subjects such as medicine and engineering costs on the higher side.
The below table sheds light on the tuition fee charged level-wise in New Zealand from international students applying to their universities:
Study Program Level | Annual Costs in NZD |
|---|---|
Diploma or Certificate courses | NZD 23,000 - NZD 47,000 |
English Language courses | NZD 350 (per week) |
Undergraduate degree | NZD 22,000 - NZD 32,000 |
Master's degree | NZD 26,000 - NZD 37,000 |
Doctoral degree | NZD 6,500 - NZD 9,000 |
Q: Is living in New Zealand expensive?
The cost of living does not includes only the tuition fee but also other expenses like textbooks, NON-tuition fee, accommodation cost and other personal expenses. The moment a student lands in New Zealand, they need to pay $35 international visitor and tourism conservation levy. The living cost can vary as per the accommodation option, location and personal spending habits.
In addition to your tuition and insurance fees, you will need between $20,000 and $25,000 per year ($380–480 per week) for accommodation/rent, food expenses, transportation costs, phone bills, internet usage and entertainment.
Q: Is New Zealand good for international students to study?
New Zealand is one of the top destinations for international students going abroad for higher education. All of eight universities in New Zealand are ranked among the top 3% universities in the world. New Zealand education sets up students with a globally recognised qualification and real-world skills. Each year thousands of students from India apply for various universities in the New Zealand. As per Govt. of India, there are more than 2,500 Indian students that went to study in 2022 in various universities in New Zealand.
Q: How do I get a study visa for New Zealand?
Each year, thousands of students from all over the world come to New Zealand to pursue higher education. International students can apply for a study visa to the New Zealand in 4 different ways; Online, offline, through an immigration advisor or at a visa center. An overseas student may have to furnish the following:
- Name of the course you are allowed to study;
- Name of education provider;
- Must hold an acceptable insurance;
- Valid passport;
- Completed student visa application form; and
- 2 passport sized photographs.
Q: How much does it cost to get a study visa in New Zealand?
After submitting their student visa application, international students are required to pay a base visa fee of NZD 375 (INR 18 K). However, candidates who are applying for their student visa online from New Delhi as their receiving center are required to pay NZD 430 (INR 20.6 K) as a visa application fee. International students, including Indian students are advised to check the official immigration website of New Zealand to know the current and exact visa application fees.
Conversion Rate: 1 NZD = INR 48.13
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Hello Betsy. Check out options to study in New Zealand here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/new-zealand. You can apply for inhouse scholarships on the official university website or visit: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/scholarships
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Hello Gurans. Thank you for writing in. You can check out Studying in New Zealand options here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/new-zealand. every university/course could have a different score requirement. kindly visit the link and check out the eligibility criteria.
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Hi Obiora, different universities have different requirements. If not TOEFL, you must take IELTS. Otherwise you must look for an English language pathway program to meet the English language requirements. Nevertheless, the requirements vary, please check with the universities directly. You may take
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