What it costs to study in New Zealand: tuition, living and one-off fees
Tuition fees
| Level | Typical annual fee |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | NZ$25,000 to NZ$40,000 |
| Postgraduate | NZ$28,000 to NZ$45,000 |
PhD students pay domestic fees, around NZ$7,000 to NZ$9,000 a year.
Living costs
| Monthly cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | NZ$800 to NZ$1,400 (Auckland highest) |
| Food and groceries | NZ$350 to NZ$500 |
| Transport | NZ$80 to NZ$150 with tertiary concession |
| Utilities and phone | NZ$120 to NZ$200 |
| Health insurance | About NZ$60 to NZ$80, compulsory |
Total: NZ$1,600 to NZ$2,400 a month; immigration expects NZ$20,000 a year.
One-off costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | NZ$750 |
| Health cover | Compulsory medical and travel insurance for the full stay |
| Flights | Return flights from South Asia or West Africa typically £500 to £900 or equivalent |
| Accommodation deposit | Usually one month's rent, refundable |
| Set-up costs | Bedding, kitchen items, winter clothing: budget the equivalent of £200 to £300 |
Build your own budget
Enter your own figures. This adds them up; it does not know your course.
Where students save
- Choose a city outside the capital: the difference is often 20 to 40 percent on rent.
- Book accommodation with bills included before you arrive.
- Apply early for automatic merit scholarships; see the scholarship guide.
- Plan part-time work at 12 to 15 hours a week, not the maximum.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
How long can I stay in New Zealand after studying?
Up to three years on the Post-Study Work Visa if you complete a bachelor's degree or higher. Some lower-level qualifications qualify for shorter periods only if they are on the Green List.
How much money must I show for a New Zealand student visa?
NZ$20,000 a year for living expenses (NZ$1,667 a month for shorter periods) plus evidence that tuition is paid or funds to pay it.
Are New Zealand degrees recognised internationally?
Yes. All eight universities sit in the QS top 500 and qualifications are recognised across the Commonwealth, the US and Europe.