Looking for the best universities in New Zealand for international students? Well, it’s the best time to do so. The country offers more educational opportunities than ever, with top global rankings and updated course options.
It’s not surprising that New Zealand is returning to its pre-pandemic level of student enrollments. According to the New Zealand Education Department, the country recorded 83,425 international student enrollments in 2024 alone. And the numbers are likely to keep going up in the future.
But with all universities attaining international recognition, students often end up in a dilemma:
Which are the best universities in New Zealand to which I should apply?
Which is the best university in New Zealand that fits my needs?
That’s why we’ve prepared this blog to explain the top universities in New Zealand for international students with rankings, popular courses, and tuition fees for 2025.

Have a look at the top benefits and opportunities of studying in New Zealand:
- All eight universities in New Zealand are consistently listed in the QS World University Rankings. A degree from the nation will open doors to many jobs and higher education opportunities worldwide.
- Depending on their qualifications and where they live, international graduates can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (1–3 years). This makes it easier to get work experience before going back home or moving abroad.
- The average tuition fee for undergraduate programs in New Zealand range between NZD 35,000 and 55,000 per year, which is less than what they cost in the US, the UK, or Australia.
- New Zealand has a long-term list of skill shortages in IT, engineering, healthcare, and agriculture. This means international students have a better chance of getting jobs and permanent residency.
- Starting from 3 November 2025, international students in New Zealand can work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term. That’s an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. During breaks, they can work full-time.
- Many universities in New Zealand, such as the Victoria University of Wellington, are renowned worldwide for their cutting-edge research in fields like climate change, biotechnology, and Antarctic studies. This gives students the chance to work on projects that matter.

Below are the top-ranked universities in New Zealand for international students with updated 2025 rankings:
Estimated Tuition Fee: NZD 38,000 – NZD 55,000
Located in the heart of New Zealand’s largest city, the University of Auckland is New Zealand’s highest-ranked university. It is a research-led university renowned for its diverse range of courses and strong international reputation.
Why Study at the University of Auckland?
- The University of Auckland is the best in New Zealand, so your degree will be recognized worldwide. It is the only university in New Zealand to be in the top 100 institutions in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
- The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s largest research organisation. It has more than 12,000 staff and students doing research in various fields. You will have the chance to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry through advanced tools.
- The university’s location in Auckland, a global hub, gives it a unique edge. You can live in a multicultural city and explore high-paying career opportunities right after your studies.
- The university offers a dedicated Auckland Advantage program to prepare students for a stable career. The program also connects students with alumni who work in different fields for networking purposes.
Fun Fact
The campus gardens cover over 41,500 m² and host more than 400 trees, offering a peaceful spot for study breaks.
Best Courses to Study At The University Of Auckland
Engineering
The University of Auckland’s Faculty of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top in the world. What makes it so special is its focus on hands-on and research-oriented learning. Students can also choose to focus on a wide range of subjects, such as civil, mechanical, computer, and so on.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The University of Auckland Business School holds the prestigious triple crown status with international accreditations from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. The curriculum is structured in accordance with the latest industry trends and aims to prepare students for the current job market needs.
Estimated Tuition Fee: NZD 28,000 – NZD 45,000
Victoria University of Wellington, located in the country’s capital, is well-known for its close ties to the government and creative industries. The university has three campuses in Wellington. All of them offer a unique experience where students’ academic lives are connected to the political and cultural center.
Why Study at Victoria University of Wellington?
- Being in Wellington means students can engage directly with New Zealand’s government agencies, international embassies, and cultural organisations. Law and arts students will have a significant edge in acquiring internships and placement offers.
- The university has the highest level of research intensity in New Zealand. Students often work on many innovative projects. The Antarctic Research Centre is one such example. It led over 400 expeditions and even won New Zealand’s Prime Minister’s Science Prize.
- Just like the University of Auckland, the Wellington School of Business also holds a Triple Crown status. This makes it one of the top 1% of business schools in the world, so your business degree will be of the highest quality and will be recognized around the world.
Best Courses to Study At Victoria University of Wellington
Law and Political Science
The Faculty of Law and School of Government of Victoria University of Wellington is very close to the New Zealand Parliament, the Supreme Court, and other government offices. This gives students special access to have hands-on experience at important institutions.
Film and Design Innovation
Wellington, known as ‘Wellywood’, is also the country’s creative capital for film and digital technology. Popular companies like Weta Workshop (a creative services company behind Avatar, The Lord of the Rings, and so on) are situated here. Art students can learn in a lively setting that is directly connected to the industry.
Fun Fact
You might be surprised to learn that Taika Waititi, the director behind Thor: Ragnarok and Jojo Rabbit, studied theatre and film at Victoria University. He even won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for Jojo Rabbit in 2020.
Estimated Tuition Fees: NZD 27,000 – NZD 35,000
The University of Waikato is a future-oriented institution that’s known for its innovative teaching methods and strong industry connections. The main campus is in Hamilton, but there is also a campus in Tauranga.
Why Study at the University of Waikato?
- The University of Waikato follows a unique Work Integrated Learning (WIL) approach. You will get practical experience through projects and internships. Over 2,000 such opportunities are offered annually.
- The university is a leader in studies of indigenous communities and the environment. It was the first school in the world to offer a Bachelor of Climate Change degree, which is a one-of-a-kind program that combines science, policy, and social understanding.
- The university’s smaller class sizes and dedicated support services for international students (like the Buddy Programme) create a welcoming and supportive environment.
Best Courses to Study at the University of Waikato
Business and Management
The University of Waikato’s curriculum focuses on real-world skills, allowing students to choose from a range of specializations, including Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management. On top of that, the institution’s Triple Crown status makes your qualification more appealing to employers worldwide.
Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
Looking for postgraduate studies in the computer science field? Well, the University of Waikato places a strong emphasis on research, particularly in fields such as machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI), to ensure that students remain current with the latest technologies. The university even has its own AI Institute that gives students access to unique resources and research projects.
Fun Fact
Jon Allitt, an alumnus who earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Waikato in 1987, went on to become a standout visual effects engineer at Weta Digital. He earned an Academy Award for Technical Achievement for pioneering a lighting system initially used in Avatar, which later powered effects in Iron Man 3 and The Hobbit trilogies.
Estimated Tuition Fees: NZD 35,000 – NZD 55,000
Located in Auckland, AUT is New Zealand’s youngest and most modern university. It’s established in 2000 and is already ranked among the top 250 universities globally.
Why Study at the Auckland University of Technology?
- AUT has a great track record for graduate employability. According to their Annual Graduate Survey 2024, 83% of graduates were working full-time.
- AUT offers the best infrastructure facilities, including a motion capture studio, a robotics lab, and a dedicated sports science facility. All of them are equipped with many advanced tools to encourage hands-on learning.
- The university usually brings in active professionals as guest lecturers. They bring real-world knowledge and connections into the classroom, giving you useful information that goes beyond what you learn in books.
Fun Fact
Bruce McLaren, a famous Formula One racer and founder of the iconic McLaren racing team, is an AUT graduate!
Best Courses to Study at the Auckland University of Technology
Engineering Technology
The Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BET) is a career-focused degree for those who are looking for undergraduate studies in New Zealand. It’s structured as a highly practical program, where you must complete 600 hours of supervised work experience for graduation. This hands-on part of the program lets you meet other professionals and gives you valuable work experience during your studies itself.
Health Sciences
AUT has built a strong name in nursing and health sciences due to the top-notch infrastructural facilities. On top of that, the university also collaborates with major Auckland hospitals to give you hands-on training in real clinical settings right from the start.
Estimated Tuition Fees: NZD 28,000 – NZD 38,000
Lincoln University is New Zealand’s specialist land-based university, with a long history that goes back to 1878. It is one of the best universities in New Zealand for International students with a passion for agriculture, agribusiness, and environmental management studies.
Did You Know?
Lincoln University is the oldest agricultural teaching institution in the Southern Hemisphere, which is why many experts consider it a true pioneer in the field.
Why Study at Lincoln University?
- Lincoln University has one of the highest graduate employment rates in New Zealand. According to the official website, about 82% of graduates find paid employment after their studies. This shows that the university has strong ties to the business world and a curriculum that is relevant to the job market.
- Lincoln University is New Zealand’s smallest university. It has a high student-to-teacher ratio. This makes the learning environment more personal, with more access to teachers and hands-on help.
- The university has a unique campus that feels like a village, with a close-knit community and a lot of support for students.
Best Courses to Study at Lincoln University
Agricultural Science
The university offers a very practical learning environment for agricultural studies. The campus has a working farm, a vineyard, and a winery to provide students with hands-on experience in addition to what they learn in class.
Oenology and Viticulture
The Viticulture and Oenology programs at Lincoln are great for people interested in wine. As mentioned earlier, the university has its own vineyard and winery, so students can take part in every step of the process, from growing grapes to making wine.
In fact, New Zealand is known around the world for its wine, especially Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. This degree gives you a direct path into a growing industry.

Feeling excited to apply to the best universities in New Zealand for international students? Let’s have a look at the New Zealand student visa requirements:
- Complete plus two or equivalent
- The academic qualification must be recognized by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
- A confirmed offer of a place from an approved New Zealand education provider
- Prove English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, PTE Academic, or the Duolingo English Test
- Show relevant proof of funds that you’ve enough funds to cover tuition fees and living costs in New Zealand
- Submit relevant health certificates and Policy Clearance Certificate (PCC)
- You must have full medical and travel insurance for the duration of your stay
1. What’s the teaching style like in New Zealand?
Classes are interactive and practical with group discussions, projects, industrial case studies, and so on. The focus is on developing critical thinking rather than just memorizing facts.
2. What is the best time to apply to New Zealand universities?
Most universities have two major intakes: February/March and July. The best time to apply is 6–8 months before your preferred intake. That gives you ample time to gather the visa requirement documents and plan accommodation comfortably.
3. Can I stay in New Zealand after studies?
Yes! The Post-Study Work Visa allows graduates to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on their qualification level.
4. Do we have opportunities for research at the undergraduate level?
Yes. Many universities let undergraduate students participate in innovative research projects with professors. It’s a great way to build a strong profile, especially for postgraduate studies in the future.

Let’s make it clear. Picking a random reputable university from a ranking list won’t be enough. You need to find the right place to fit in and grow over time.
It’s normal to feel a little stuck when there are so many choices. Should you choose the University of Auckland because of its strong research? Or Lincoln’s programs that focus on land? Or perhaps the creative edge of Victoria University?
At The Chopras – TC Global, we can help you sort it out. Our dedicated counsellors sit with you to understand your goals and suggest the best universities in New Zealand for international students that align with your mindset.
Your dream university is out there. Let’s find it together. Book a free consultation now!