List of Top Universities in New Zealand: Ranking, Courses & Fees Structure

Haniya Yashfeen

10 min read

Updated On Aug 22, 2024

Discover top universities in New Zealand, their QS world rankings, available courses, and fee structures to find the ideal educational fit for your future.

Introduction
Best Universities in New Zealand: QS World University Rankings 2025
Why Study in the Top Universities in New Zealand?
List of Top Universities in New Zealand for International Students
Conclusion

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Introduction

Some of the top universities in New Zealand come up as the first choice by the international students due to its quality of education and learning experience, along with its welcoming culture. The popular courses offered in these universities include Business Management, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Social Sciences, Environmental Studies, and Creative Arts. The average tuition fees for international students range from INR 13.2L to INR 24.9L per year, depending on the program and institution.

This article will cover the best universities in New Zealand in 2024, their QS World Ranking, prevalent courses, and tuition fees to enable you to make informed decisions.

Best Universities in New Zealand: QS World University Rankings 2025

Here’s a table representing the best universities in New Zealand as ranked by QS World University Rankings 2024 and Times Higher Education (THE) 2024.

University	QS World University Ranking 2025 - Top Universities in New Zealand
The University of Auckland	#65
University of Otago	#214
Victoria University of Wellington	#244
University of Canterbury	#261
Massey University	#239
University of Waikato	#235
Lincoln University	#371
Auckland University of Technology	#412

Ranked 65th globally, the University of Auckland stands as one of the top universities in New Zealand, followed by the University of Otago in 206th position as per the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Why Study in the Top Universities in New Zealand?

Here are some reasons why international students opt to study in the top universities in New Zealand:

High-Quality Education: New Zealand universities consistently rank among the world's best. For eg, the University of Auckland is ranked 65th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, while the University of Otago stood at 206th position.
Diverse Study Programs: New Zealand universities offer a broad range of programs, including Engineering, Business and Management, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Arts and Humanities, and Social Sciences.

Quality of Life: New Zealand offers a high quality of life with cities like Auckland and Wellington ranked among the most livable in the world. In the 2023 Mercer Quality of Living Survey, Auckland was ranked 10th globally.
Work Opportunities: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. Common jobs include roles in retail, hospitality, and on-campus positions.
Post-Study Work Rights: After graduation, students can apply for a visa to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years, gaining valuable local work experience.

List of Top Universities in New Zealand for International Students

Here’s a list of the best universities in New Zealand for international students, renowned for their quality of education and global prestige. These best Uni in New Zealand deliver excellent education and have very vibrant campus lives.

1. The University of Auckland

Founded in 1883, the University of Auckland is the highest-ranked university in New Zealand, known for the employability of its graduates. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

University of Auckland Admissions: Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)
Top PG Program	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with GPA: 2.5 on a 9.0 scale (75%) PG: Undergraduate degree with GPA: 5.0 on a 9.0 scale (85%)
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each section, TOEFL iBT: Overall 80, Writing 21, PTE: 50 PG: IELTS: 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each section, TOEFL iBT: Overall 90, Writing 21, PTE: 50
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 32,000 - NZD 43,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 50,000 per year
Scholarships for international student	Scholarships available include the International Student Excellence Scholarship and the University of Auckland International Student Scholarship

The University of Auckland: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees:

Below is a table mentioning the courses, duration and their average tuition fees for the University of Auckland:

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MBA	12 - 16 Months	NZD 52,290	24.9L
BE/BTech	3 Years	NZD 32,970 - NZD 40,210	15.7L - 19.1L
MArch	2 Years	NZD 35,910	17.1L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 35,910 - NZD 39,270	17.1L - 18.7L
BSc	3 Years	NZD 31,080 - NZD 33,390	14.8L - 15.9L
MIM	1 - 1.5 Years	NZD 32,130 - NZD 48,720	15.3L - 23.2L
BBA	3 Years	NZD 31,080	14.8L
MEng	1 - 1.5 Years	NZD 38,640	18.4L

2. University of Otago

The University of Otago was established in 1869, offering a plethora of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It is New Zealand’s oldest university and scores high marks internationally, particularly in the areas of Health Sciences and Humanities. The tuition fees vary from around NZD 29,000 to NZD 73,000 annually, subject to the chosen course for the international students.

University of Otago Admissions: Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
Top PG Program	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Eligibility Criteria	UG: All India Senior School Examination (CBSE) or Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE) PG: Bachelor’s degree for Master’s; Master’s degree or first-class/upper second-class honours degree for PhD
English Proficiency	UG: 70% in High School English PG: IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL iBT 102
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 40,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 50,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships available including the University of Otago International Master's Scholarship and the University of Otago International Undergraduate Scholarship

The University of Otago: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees:

Below is a table mentioning the courses, duration and their average tuition fees for the University of Otago:

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MBA	15 - 24 Months	NZD 45,780	21.8L
MIM	12 Months	NZD 44,730	21.3L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 32,760 - NZD 40,950	15.6L - 19.5L
BSc	36 Months	NZD 26,040 - NZD 31,920	12.4L - 15.2L
BE/BTech	36 Months	NZD 31,920	15.2L

3. Victoria University of Wellington

Renowned for its programs in Law, Humanities, and Earth Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington was established in 1897 and offers a comprehensive range of courses.

Victoria University of Wellington Highlights:

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Top PG Program	Master of International Business
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with good grades PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a strong academic record
Test Requirements	TOEFL iBT: UG: 80 and above, PG: 90 and above IELTS: UG: 6.0 with no band below 5.5, PG: 6.5 with no band below 6.0
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 31,000 - NZD 39,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 45,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship and the Victoria University of Wellington Master's by Thesis Scholarship

Victoria University of Wellington: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees:

The following table provides the first-year tuition fees for a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MBA	16 - 20 Months	NZD 27,510	13.1L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 24,990 - NZD 53,130	11.9L - 25.3L
MIM	12 - 24 Months	NZD 28,350 - NZD 42,420	13.5L - 20.2L
BSc	36 Months	NZD 29,220	13.9L
MEng	12 Months	NZD 35,280	16.8L

4. University of Canterbury

Founded in 1873 and situated in Christchurch, the University of Canterbury is the second-oldest research university in New Zealand. It offers a wide range of programs across its five colleges and is well-regarded for its Engineering and Forestry programs.

University of Canterbury Highlights:

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)
Top PG Program	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Eligibility Criteria	UG: High school certificate with a GPA of 75% PG: Undergraduate degree with a GPA of 5.5 to 8.0 out of 10
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 40,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 50,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the UC International First Year Scholarship and the UC International Scholarships

University of Canterbury: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees:

The following table provides the first-year tuition fees for a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MBA	15 Months	NZD 46,620	22.2L
BE/BTech	36 Months	NZD 30,240 - NZD 36,120	14.4L - 17.2L
MEng	12 - 15 Months	NZD 43,470	20.7L
BSc	36 Months	NZD 34,960	16.6L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 37,800 - NZD 43,470	18L - 20.7L

5. Massey University

Massey University is renowned for its research-driven teaching. It offers programs across three campuses in Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington.

Massey University Highlights:

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Veterinary Science
Top PG Program	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with a strong academic record PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a good academic record
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 PG: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 40,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 50,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the Massey University International Student Scholarships and the Vice-Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship

Massey University: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees:

The following table provides the first-year tuition fees for a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MEng	12 Months	NZD 33,240 - NZD 37,320	15.8L - 17.8L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 34,650 - NZD 38,430	16.5L - 18.3L
MIM	12 - 18 Months	NZD 30,240	14.4L
BE/BTech	36 - 48 Months	NZD 28,920 - NZD 35,280	13.8L - 16.8L
BBA	36 Months	NZD 28,920	13.8L

6. University of Waikato

Founded in 1964, the University of Waikato offers a plethora of programs across its seven faculties. It is known for its strong focus on research and innovation. It’s also noted for its commitment to Māori education and research.

University of Waikato: Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS)
Top PG Program	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with strong academic performance PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a good academic record
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 PG: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 35,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 45,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship and the University of Waikato Master’s Scholarship

University of Waikato: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees:

Here’s a table representing the Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees of University of Waikato:

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MIM	12 Months	NZD 29,610 - NZD 45,360	14.1L - 21.6L
BBA	36 - 48 Months	NZD 28,920 - NZD 30,240	13.8L - 14.4L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 30,660 - NZD 34,440	14.6L - 16.4L
BSc	36 Months	NZD 28,920 - NZD 30,240	13.8L - 14.4L
MEng	12 Months	NZD 37,560	17.9L

7. Lincoln University

Lincoln University specializes in agriculture, environmental science, and related fields. It offers a range of career-focused programs.

Lincoln University Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Agricultural Science
Top PG Program	Master of Land and Property Management
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with a good academic record PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a strong academic background
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 PG: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 35,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 45,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the Lincoln University International Taught Masters Scholarship and the Lincoln University International Undergraduate Scholarship

Lincoln University: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
BSc	3 Years	NZD 29,400 - NZD 30,240	14L - 14.4L
MS	24 Months	NZD 27,720 - NZD 32,550	13.2L - 15.5L
MIM	1 Year	NZD 38,850	18.5L
BHM	3 Years	NZD 27,720	13.2L
MArch	1 Year	NZD 38,850	18.5L

8. Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

The Auckland University of Technology was established in the year 2000 and delivers programs from five faculties. AUT is known for its academic contributions through innovative education and research.

Auckland University of Technology Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Business
Top PG Program	Master of International Business
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with strong academic performance PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a good academic record
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 PG: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 35,000 per year PG: NZD 35,000 - NZD 45,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the AUT International Excellence Scholarship and the AUT International Student Scholarship

Auckland University of Technology (AUT): Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MBA	12 - 16 Months	NZD 52,290	24.9L
BE/BTech	3 Years	NZD 33,060 - NZD 40,210	15.7L - 19.1L
MArch	2 Years	NZD 35,910	17.1L
MS	12 - 24 Months	NZD 35,910 - NZD 39,270	17.1L - 18.7L
BSc	3 Years	NZD 31,080 - NZD 33,420	14.8L - 15.9L
MIM	1 - 1.5 Years	NZD 32,130 - NZD 48,720	15.3L - 23.2L
BBA	3 Years	NZD 31,080	14.8L
MEng	1 - 1.5 Years	NZD 38,640	18.4L

9. Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec)

The Wellington Institute of Technology is a leading tertiary education provider and training institute that delivers a series of courses with NZQA accreditation to help the students acquire industry-relevant skills.

Wellington Institute of Technology Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Applied Management
Top PG Program	Master of Professional Design
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with strong academic performance PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a strong academic record
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 PG: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 25,000 - NZD 30,000 per year PG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 40,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the WelTec International Excellence Scholarship and the WelTec Postgraduate Scholarship

Wellington Institute of Technology : Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
BBA	3 Years	NZD 17,850	8.5L
BE/BTech	3 Years	NZD 18,690 - NZD 18,900	8.9L - 9L

10. Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)

The EIT was established in 1975 and offers over 130 academic programs in many different areas, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Eastern Institute of Technology Highlights

Category	Details
Top UG Program	Bachelor of Business Studies
Top PG Program	Master of Professional Accounting
Eligibility Criteria	UG: Secondary school certificate with strong academic performance PG: Relevant undergraduate degree with a good academic record
English Proficiency	UG: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 PG: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Average Cost of Attendance	UG: NZD 25,000 - NZD 30,000 per year PG: NZD 30,000 - NZD 40,000 per year
Scholarships for International Students	Various scholarships including the EIT International Student Scholarship and the EIT Postgraduate Scholarship

Eastern Institute of Technology: Course Details, Duration, and Average Tuition Fees

Following table shows the Course Details, duration, and average tuition fees:

Course	Duration	1st Year Tuition Fees (NZD)	1st Year Tuition Fees (INR)
MIM	1.5 Years	NZD 17,850	8.5L
MS	18 Months	NZD 20,790	9.9L
BE/BTech	3 Years	NZD 19,950	9.5L
BBA	3 Years	NZD 19,320	9.2L

Conclusion

Life in New Zealand is interesting, broad, and enriching for international students. Top universities like the University of Auckland and the University of Otago get you the first-rated education and research opportunities. The evaluation through QS World Rankings, various courses available in New Zealand, and the tuition fees should all be considered to find the one that best matches your academic and career aspirations. Overall, Studying in the top universities in New Zealand will open up doors to a beautiful future with a lot of prospects and scope.

Interested in enrolling in any of the top universities in New Zealand? Contact us to begin your study abroad journey today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is New Zealand's No. 1 university?

New Zealand's No. 1 university is the University of Auckland, known for its strong academic reputation and diverse range of programs. It consistently ranks highly in global university rankings, making it a top choice for students.

What is the top university in New Zealand's QS ranking?

The University of Auckland is the top university in New Zealand, consistently ranked in the top 100 worldwide by QS. It offers a variety of faculties, including arts, business, science, engineering, and law, and is home to renowned institutes like Liggins and Auckland Bioengineering.

What is the hardest university to get into in New Zealand?

The University of Auckland is the hardest university to get into in New Zealand, with an acceptance rate of 45%. This means only about four out of ten applicants are admitted.

What are the 8 universities in New Zealand?

Following are the top universities in New Zealand: 1. Auckland University of Technology 2. Lincoln University 3. Massey University 4. University of Auckland 5. University of Canterbury 6. University of Otago 7. University of Waikato 8. Victoria University of Wellington

Is New Zealand good for international students?

Yes, New Zealand is an excellent choice for international students, providing a world-class education system. Its institutions meet global standards and are regularly monitored by the government to ensure high-quality education.

What are the Level 1 universities in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, the top universities often referred to as "Level 1" include the University of Auckland, known for its comprehensive research and academic programs; the University of Otago, distinguished for its research and health sciences; and the University of Canterbury, recognized for its engineering and business programs.