A complete list of the best colleges to study in New Zealand

With a higher-than-average quality of life, students in New Zealand who have a Bachelor’s degree or higher tend to earn nearly 50% more than those without any qualification. With excellent pay potential and job prospects after graduation, several students globally look up to New Zealand as a preferred study-abroad destination. This article discusses why New Zealand is popular among many Indian students and some of the top colleges to choose from in the country for higher studies. 

Related Source: https://www.universitiesnz.ac.nz/sector-research/achieving-excellent-graduate-outcomes

Why Study in New Zealand?

Several New Zealand colleges attract students from all parts of the world every year. Some of the key reasons Indian students choose to study in the country are as follows:

  • The degree obtained from one of the colleges in New Zealand is recognized around the world.

  • Part-time work opportunities are available to international students as they continue to pursue their studies. 

  • The tuition fee for many courses in New Zealand colleges is relatively lower and more affordable than in other overseas destinations. 

List of Top Colleges in New Zealand for Indian Students

Indian students looking for the best colleges in New Zealand to pursue higher education can apply to the following institutions in the country:

Name of the College

QS World University Rankings 2025

The University of Auckland

65

The University of Otago

214

The University of Waikato

235

Massey University

=239

Victoria University of Wellington

244

University of Canterbury

=261

Lincoln University

=371

Auckland University of Technology

412

Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings-articles/world-university-rankings/top-universities-new-zealand 

Eligibility Criteria for Admission into Top New Zealand Colleges

Students aspiring to study in the best colleges in New Zealand must meet certain admission criteria, as specified by the college. Note that all New Zealand colleges have a different set of entry requirements for applicants. Please check with the specific university/college you wish to apply to:

  • UG programs require completion of higher secondary education or grade 12, the overseas equivalent of year 13 in New Zealand.

  • Most colleges in New Zealand set the cut-off range for students as 50-60% in class 12.    

  • An overall score of 6.0 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each band is required in the IELTS Test Report form as proof of English proficiency for Indian students.

  • Students applying to PG programs in the country must have a relevant undergraduate degree, preferably in the course applying to or in a related and relevant domain. 

  • They must have secured at least 50-60% in their Bachelor’s.

  • Students applying for Management programs should also have the desired GRE/GMAT grades. 

  • Some top colleges in New Zealand may require professional experience or internships in the specific field of study as a prerequisite for admission to PG programs. 

  • PG programs require English proficiency scores of an overall 6.5 and at least 6.0 in each band on IELTS.

Source: https://www.idp.com/india/blog/eligibility-criteria-in-new-zealand/ 

Related Source: https://www.massey.ac.nz/study/entry-requirements-to-study-at-massey/entry-requirements-for-international-students

Cost of Studying in New Zealand Colleges for Indian Students

The fee structure in New Zealand colleges may vary for both domestic and international students. The cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students would be different according to the level of degree pursued. For instance, undergraduate degrees may cost somewhere between NZD 20,500 and NZD 25,000 per annum (approx). Likewise, for a PG degree program, the tuition fee may range from NZD 19,000 - NZD 29,000 per annum (approx).

Please note that these figures are indicative and to be used as reference only. The actual fee structure in different New Zealand colleges may differ for various programs.

Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-new-zealand/cost-of-study/ 

Visa Requirements for Indian Students to Study in Top New Zealand Colleges

The New Zealand government permits Indian students to study in the country full-time with a New Zealand student visa. After being admitted into a recognised New Zealand college and paying the full fee of the study program, students must apply for a New Zealand study visa that allows them to stay in the country for study reasons for a total duration of up to 4 years. It also permits Indian students to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week alongside their studies. 

You would need to meet the following New Zealand student visa requirements to apply:

  • Proof of genuine intent to meet visa conditions and abide by them

  • Proof of finances to be able to pay the full cost of the program 

  • Return ticket to home country upon course completion

  • Proof of identity

  • Character certificate

  • Medical record

  • Offer letter from an approved university/college/educational institution in New Zealand

  • Travel and medical insurance for your stay duration

You would also need to bear the student visa for New Zealand cost at the time of application. The visa cost starts from NZD 750 and is indicative only. The actual application fee may vary so it’s best to check with the visa office at the time of applying.

Related Source: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/full-fee-paying-student-visa  

Work Opportunities for Students After Studying in Colleges of New Zealand

A host of lucrative career opportunities are likely to unlock for students graduating from the best colleges in New Zealand. A few examples are shared below:

Expected Job Role

Average Annual Salary (Approx)

Civil Engineer

NZD 75,837

Software Developer

NZD 72,348

Automotive Service Technician 

NZD 66,631

Nurse 

NZD 79,000

Hotel Manager

NZD 71,000

Related Sources: https://www.payscale.com/research/NZ/Job=Civil_Engineer/Salary

https://www.payscale.com/research/NZ/Job=Software_Developer/Salary

https://www.payscale.com/research/NZ/Job=Automotive_Service_Technician_%2F_Mechanic/Hourly_Rate

https://www.payscale.com/research/NZ/Certification=Registered_Nurse_(RN)/Salary

https://www.payscale.com/research/NZ/Industry=Hotel_Management/Salary

Student Essentials Services (SES) by IDP for Studying Abroad

Travelling to New Zealand from India for studies can seem quite daunting. This is why IDP Education consultants offer a wide array of Student Essentials Services (SES) for the convenience of Indian students:

  • Education loans to help you achieve all your overseas education goals

  • Issuance of SIM cards to ensure that you can easily stay in touch with your loved ones back home in New Zealand

  • Forex Card to help you manage your international expenses effortlessly

  • Help with finding a suitable guardian for students below 18 years of age

FAQs for Top Colleges in New Zealand For Indian Students

1. Is New Zealand a good place to study for Indian students?

Yes, New Zealand features among the top education destinations in the world, including the US, the UK, Canada, Ireland, and Australia.

2. What are the best college courses in New Zealand?

Some of the top study programs available at New Zealand colleges include:

  • Engineering programs

  • Artificial Intelligence and IT programs

  • Accounting programs

3. Which is the best university in New Zealand for Engineering?

Some of the best universities in New Zealand that offer top Engineering programs to international students are:

4. What are the top student cities in New Zealand for Indian students?

Indian students prefer to study in New Zealand in the following cities:

  • Auckland

  • Christchurch

Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-abroad/study-in-new-zealand/

5. What is the number 1 university in New Zealand?

New Zealand is home to many top colleges. Some of the best ones are:

Updated on 27 January, 2025