Top 5 Affordable Universities in New Zealand

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Studying in New Zealand offers students the opportunity to obtain a high-quality education at a significantly lower cost. Additionally, it facilitates post-graduation employment in the country.  Nevertheless, finding the appropriate college or university in New Zealand might be challenging. This page aims to provide information about affordable universities in New Zealand that offer degree programs in your desired field of study. Go on reading.

Snow-clad mountains of New Zealand with lush green trees depicting the "Top 5 Affordable Universities in New Zealand for Indian Students"

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Aspiring for a high-quality education at an affordable cost? New Zealand is an excellent choice for studying abroad! New Zealand universities are ranked in the top 3% worldwide, as stated in the 2024 QS World University Rankings report. The Island country provides scholarships worth 10-20 million dollars each year and is home to some of the finest but affordable institutions in New Zealand. Renowned among those aspiring to pursue their education at affordable universities in New Zealand, the country also warmly embraces talented foreign students from around the globe.

 

Come along as we walk you through all you need to know about the most prestigious yet affordable institutions on the island nation. Discover information about scholarships, the esteemed international standing of their highly sought-after programs, the inclusive and hospitable environment, and many other noteworthy aspects. Get expert guidance from Global Campus’s experienced counsellors on formulating effective strategies for your applications. We provide tailored guidance on selecting a limited number of options and applying to institutions that align perfectly with your financial resources, areas of interest, and professional aspirations without any difficulty!

Top 5 Cheapest Universities for Foreign Students in New Zealand

As a student, you can be confident that you will get the best possible education in New Zealand. Because universities rank top globally, the government conducts frequent quality inspections on them. In light of this, we have assembled a list of the best affordable universities in New Zealand.

  • University of Auckland
  • University of Canterbury
  • Lincoln University
  • Auckland University of Technology
  • Massey University

1. University of Auckland

In 1882, the University of Auckland was founded. The institution has more than 172,000 active alumni worldwide as of 2022. At any given academic level, this institution, which can accommodate about 40,000 students (both domestic and foreign), is one of the most, if not the most, well-known in all of New Zealand.  The University of Auckland is regarded as one of the most affordable universities in New Zealand, even though it is one of the best. Students enrolled in degree programs will have the chance to receive particular care in their field of study along with an excellent education.

The university is a top rated institution in New Zealand, coming in at number 65 in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. With more than 35,000 students, including 9,350 foreign students from over 107 countries in 2023, it is also the largest and most comprehensive.

Ten of the university’s courses are in the top 50 in the world, demonstrating the influence that its research, standing, and teaching are having on higher education.

Cheapest Programs

Duration

1st Year Tuition Fees

 MEM

1 Year

INR 26.1L

 MS

1 – 12 Months

INR 18.9L – 24.1L

 MEng

1.5 Years

INR 23.1L – 24.1L

 MIM

1 – 18 Years

INR 19.5L – 31.1L

 MBBS

6 Years

INR 39.4L

 BE/BTech

3 – 4 Years

INR 20.5L – 25.2L

 BSc & BA

3 Years

INR 17.4L – 25.2L

 PG Certificate

6 Months

INR 9.1L – 14.2L

 

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University of Auckland: New Zealand’s Top University

2. University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury (UC) was founded in 1873. The institution has a maximum capacity of accommodating 18,362 students every academic year. In addition to its affordability, the University of Canterbury offers students a curriculum that meets worldwide standards, as well as possibilities for internships and studying abroad.

 

The institution of Canterbury, situated in Christchurch, holds the distinction of being the second oldest institution in New Zealand. The University provides a diverse range of 147 courses throughout many disciplines, including Arts, Business and Law, Education, Health and Human Development, Engineering, and Science. The university boasts a wide array of student clubs and organizations, including the UCSA, with a total of more than 130. Additionally, it is one of the most affordable institutions in New Zealand for pursuing your desired course.

Cheapest Programs

Duration

1st Year Tuition Fees

 MBA

16 Months

INR 29L

 MEng

1 – 1.3 Years

INR 23.8L – 39L

 MS

12 – 24 Months

INR 19L – 37.1L

 BE/BTech

3 Years

INR 15.9L – 20.2L

 BSc

3 Years

INR 14.6 L – 18.6 L

 PG Diploma

10 Months – 3 Years

INR 13.4L

3. Lincoln University

The university is located in Lincoln, Canterbury. Lincoln University provides a wide range of educational programs, including Pre-degree, Certificate and Diploma courses, Undergraduate Degrees with Honours, Graduate Certificates and Diplomas, Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas, Masters, and Ph.D.s. These programs cover various disciplines such as Engineering, Medical, Natural Sciences, Business, and Social Sciences. It is among the most affordable universities in New Zealand for overseas students.

 

The most affordable courses available at Lincoln University include Applied Sciences, Landscape Architecture, and courses relating to Agriculture. The University provides four scholarships specifically for international students, positioning it as one of the most cost-effective universities in New Zealand.

 

The institution received several accreditations, including Pacific Rim Real Estate Society (PRRES), European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI).

Cheapest Programs

Duration

1st Year Tuition Fees

 MS

24 Months

INR 14.3L – 25.3L

 MIM

1 Year

INR 17.9L – 25.3L

 BSc

3 Years

INR 14.7L – 17.1L

 BHM

3 Years

INR 14.7L

 BArch

2-4 Years

INR 8.3 L – 16.6 L

 MArch

1 Year

INR 16.9 L – 17.9 L

 UG Diploma

1 Year

INR 11.3 L – 14.7 L

 PG Certificate

6 Months

INR 7.3 L – 8.2 L

4. Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a publicly owned school for higher education and research that was established in the year 2000. The Auckland University of Technology is organized into five colleges, each of which is further divided into 17 schools. The university provides a wide range of academic programs encompassing diverse fields such as 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. AUT is a university that prioritizes both academics and athletics.

 

The institution currently boasts a global network of over 100,000 active alumni, establishing it as one of the most significant networks for foreign students. The institution has the capability to accommodate about 29,118 students in a single academic year. One of the university’s appealing features is its affordability, making it one of the most affordable universities in New Zealand. AUT, one of the top institutions in Auckland, New Zealand, is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education that aligns with real-world standards.

Cheapest Programs

Duration

1st Year Tuition Fees

 MBA

18 Months

INR 19.4L

 BBA

3 – 4 Years

INR 15L – 17.6L

 MIM

1 – 2 Years

INR 18.1L – 26L

 BE/BTech

3 – 4 Years

INR 15.8L – 22.8L

 MArch

2 Years

INR 22.2L

 MS

12 – 24 Months

INR 17L – 29L

 BSc

3 Years

INR 15.8L – 21.5L

 MEng

1 – 1.5 Years

INR 22.6L

5. Massey University

Massey University, a public institution, holds the distinction of being the largest university in New Zealand. This university provides a wide range of academic programs, including bachelor’s degrees, Undergraduate Bachelor Degrees with Honors, Postgraduate Bachelor Degrees with Honors, Masters, Doctorates, Certificates, Diplomas, Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, Postgraduate Certificates, and Postgraduate Diplomas. These programs cover various disciplines such as Engineering, Medical, Social Sciences, and Business. The institution provides scholarship opportunities for students from other countries.

 

According to the QS World University Rankings, it has been placed within the top 3% of institutions globally. Additionally, it is recognized as the top university in New Zealand and is the primary institution for government-funded research. The institution is renowned for its exceptional programs in Veterinary Science, Agriculture, and Business. This institution is the sole aviation school in New Zealand that is affiliated with a university. Additionally, it is the sole trading room affiliated with a university in the entire country.

Cheapest Programs

Duration

1st Year Tuition Fees

 MBA

12 Months

INR 27.1L

 MIM

1 – 1.5 Years

INR 16.2 L – 25.1 L

 MS

12 – 24 Months

INR 16.7 L – 25 L

 BBA

3 Years

INR 15.4 L – 17.2 L

 MEng

1 Year

INR 20.4 L – 21 L

 BE/BTech

3 – 4 Years

INR 16 L – 24.3 L

 BSc

3 Years

INR 13.9 L – 35.3 L

 MA

18 Months – 2 Years

INR 15.8 L – 20.4 L

 BA

3 Years

INR 13.9 L – 18.6 L

Conclusion

New Zealand is renowned for its high-quality education system, offering a wide range of affordable choices for overseas students. Studying in New Zealand offers a rewarding experience at an affordable cost, thanks to the focus on a wide range of academic disciplines and the availability of considerable scholarships. If you are looking for a combination of high-quality education and affordability, New Zealand’s universities provide a tempting option for your academic pursuits.


If you are seeking affordable education in New Zealand, Global Campus can serve as your guide. Uncover the domain of cost-effective institutions with our experienced assistance and personalized hand holding. Enhance your educational experience by signing up for our free services and get access to high-quality education without risking your financial resources.

FAQs

You would require $20,000 to support yourself per year as per student visa rules.

For Indian students, the approximate cost of attending university in New Zealand is INR 26+ lakhs.

Indeed, several universities provide scholarships to overseas students that are awarded based on their academic excellence and other specific requirements.

Yes, most foreign students can work up to 20 hours a week while they are studying their desired study program in New Zealand.

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