Study Cost in New Zealand for International Students – Study Smart, Spend Less in 2025

New Zealand has become a preferred destination for international students who seek quality education, a peaceful lifestyle, and global career opportunities. Before you plan your academic journey, it’s crucial to understand the study cost in New Zealand for international students, including tuition fees, scholarships, and living expenses. This complete guide gives you all the financial insights, including tuition fees for international students if you need to study in New Zealand for schooling and higher studies in 2025.

Why Choose New Zealand for Study?

New Zealand offers a world-class education system, globally recognized degrees, and safe, student-friendly cities. Here’s why thousands of international students, including Bangladeshis, choose New Zealand every year:

• Globally ranked universities with high graduate employability.

• Affordable tuition compared to the UK, USA, or Canada.

• The environment is English-speaking and multicultural.

• Students have the opportunity to work part-time while studying.

• There are clear pathways for obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) after completing your studies.

The average study cost in New Zealand for international students

The total study cost in New Zealand for international students includes tuition fees + living expenses + other personal costs. Below is a breakdown of how much does it cost and what you can expect for studying in New Zealand:

🎓 Tuition Fees by Study Level

💡 Tip: PhD students in New Zealand enjoy domestic tuition fees—a major advantage for international students pursuing research degrees.

🏡 Living Costs in New Zealand

The cost of living depends on your city and lifestyle. On average, study cost in New Zealand for international students should be NZD 15,000–20,000 per year.

To get a student visa, you must show proof of NZD 20,000 for annual living expenses.

Scholarships for International Students

New Zealand universities and the government offer scholarships that can reduce tuition fees by 25%–100% of the study cost in new zealand for international students

🎯 Popular Scholarships in 2025

1. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships (Government-Funded)

   • Covers tuition, living, and travel expenses.

2. University of Auckland International Excellence Scholarship

   • High achievers can receive scholarships worth up to NZD 10,000.

3. Victoria Tongarewa Scholarship

   • NZD 5,000–10,000 toward tuition fees.

4. Lincoln University International Taught Master’s Scholarship

   • Covers 50% of tuition fees.

5. University of Otago Research Scholarships

   • Fully funded for master’s and PhD students.

Tip: Start applying at least 6 months before your intake—most scholarship deadlines close early. as this scholarship can reduce the study cost in new zealand for international students

Schooling in New Zealand for International Students

For younger learners, New Zealand’s schooling system provides a solid academic and social foundation.

• Tuition Fees: NZD 12,000–18,000 per year.

• Medium of Instruction: English.

• Duration: Primary to Year 13.

• Benefit: Direct pathway to foundation or university programs.

Some popular schooling institutions include Auckland Grammar School, Christ’s College, and St Cuthbert’s College.

Higher Studies: Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD, and also the study cost in New zealand for international students

🎓 Bachelor’s Programs

• Duration: 3–4 years.

• Tuition Fees: NZD 22,000–32,000 per year.

• Fields: Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Agriculture, Arts.

🎓 Master’s Programs

• Duration: 1–2 years.

• Tuition Fees: NZD 26,000–37,000 per year.

• Fields: Data Science, Accounting, Management, Health, and Education.

🎓 PhD Programs

• Duration: 3–4 years.

• Tuition Fees: NZD 6,000–9,000 per year.

• Benefit: Domestic rate + opportunity for PR after research.

Top Universities in New Zealand

All eight public universities are ranked globally and known for innovation and employability.

Work Opportunities While Studying, Which Can Help Reduce the Study Cost in New Zealand for International Students

• Part-time work: 20 hours/week during semesters.

• Full-time work: During semester breaks.

• Post-Study Work Visa: 1–3 years depending on qualification level.

Sectors with high job demand include:

• Information Technology (IT)

• Engineering and Construction

• Nursing and Healthcare

• Agriculture and Horticulture

• Business and Accounting

How to Manage Study Costs

1. Apply for scholarships early.

2. Choose regional universities—often cheaper than Auckland or Wellington.

3. Share accommodation to save on rent.

4. Work part-time during studies.

5. Apply for a PhD—lowest tuition for international students.

 Summary: Average Annual Cost Breakdown

 Note: Regional universities such as SIT and Toi Ohomai offer lower tuition rates, helping students save even more.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the study cost in New Zealand for international students helps you plan a stress-free education journey. With affordable tuition, generous scholarships, flexible work rights, and globally recognized degrees, New Zealand offers one of the best returns on investment for international education.

If you dream of studying abroad, start your journey now—New Zealand could be your gateway to a brighter, globally connected future.

Need Help Applying?

At Scholars Zone, we specialize in placing Bangladeshi students in affordable Canadian universities that offer scholarships, PGWP benefits, and PR potential.

📌HEAD OFFICE: House – 27/A, Rd No. #03, Dhadmondi, Dhaka – 1205.

🌐 Website: www.scholarszone.com.bd
📞 Phone: +88 01714-076485  
📧 Email: contact@scholarszone.com.bd