What is your Preferred Level of Study in New Zealand?

Indian students increasingly prefer New Zealand for higher education. Our poll reveals 55% favour undergraduate courses, followed by postgraduate, diploma, and PhD programs. This comprehensive guide will help you to understand tuition, living costs, and career opportunities to help students choose the best course to study in New Zealand.

New Zealand is quickly emerging as a top study destination for Indian students. All thanks to its inclusive immigration policies, top ranked universities, and diverse culture. Apart from this, recent policy changes in USA, Canada and Australia have contributed to this. Today, Indian students are considering New Zealand as study destination. To better understand Indian student preferences, we conducted a poll asking: “What is your preferred level of study in New Zealand?”

Interestingly, 55% students said they want to pursue undergraduate courses, followed by postgraduate diploma and PhD courses. The result of this poll is a foundation for this blog. Here, we will explore study levels in New Zealand and cover other important information. while breaking down costs, opportunities, and career prospects. By using real-time poll insights, our goal is to guide students toward the best academic path in this growing global hub.

Most Preferred Courses in NZ: Poll Insight

In the poll, we have asked "What is your preferred level of study in New Zealand?". The majority of Indian students who want to study abroad after 12th voted for UG courses. Here is the poll result: 

Here is the poll breakdown:

Undergraduate Courses (55% Votes)

More than half of the total voters said that they want to pursue UG courses here. Undergraduate (UG) programs in New Zealand are the most popular choice among Indian students. The duration of UG courses in NZ is 3 to 4 years. For Indian students, UG tuition fees typically range from INR 11 to 16 lakhs per year.

The fee can vary depending on the university and course (arts and humanities are usually less expensive than STEM or health programs). Engineering, Business, Healthcare and Tourism are some popular streams for UG courses. Check out the top UG colleges in NZ.

UG degrees allow a smooth entry after Class 12. Many students are drawn to New Zealand for its English-medium instruction and career-linked teaching style. After graduation, students are eligible for a 3-year post-study work visa, which allows them to get full-time jobs in New Zealand.

Postgraduate Courses (32%)

Many Indian students choose postgraduate (master’s) programs in New Zealand. to boost their career prospects, gain global exposure, or change professional fields. The duration of MS courses in NZ is between 2 to 3 years. Most of the popular courses are related to engineering, IT, business, and healthcare backgrounds. The cost of studying PG courses in NZ is between INR 13 to 21 lakhs per year.

After completing their degree, Indian students can apply for a 3-year post-study work visa in NZ. This helps students to get jobs in NZ and apply for permanent residency. For Indian graduates, New Zealand offers a smart, career-focused pathway to international success.

Diploma Courses

A total of 10% students voted for diploma courses. They want to pursue PG Diploma programs in New Zealand are a cost-effective and shorter alternative to master’s degrees. The duration of diploma courses in NZ is just 1 year. Indian students prefer diploma courses because it is a career-focused structure and quick return on investment.

As IT, healthcare, business and AI are popular job sectors in NZ, PG diploma courses related to these sectors are high-paying. Tuition fees generally range from INR 7 to 13 lakhs per year, depending on the course and institution.

In short, this course is best for those who want to get job-ready skills or switch fields. This makes PG Diplomas a smart choice for those looking to enter the job market quickly without a long academic commitment.

PhD Courses

For Indian students aiming for a global research career, a PhD in New Zealand offers excellent value and opportunity. PhD abroad typically takes 3 to 4 years and focuses entirely on independent research. The cost of studying a PhD in New Zealand is around NZD 6,500–9,000/year (INR 3.2–4.5 lakhs). In addition, students can work full-time during their PhD, and spouses are eligible for full-time work rights.

After graduation, PhD holders can apply for a 3-year post-study work visa and gain priority in PR pathways under the Skilled Migrant Category. Popular fields for Indian researchers include computer science, engineering, health, environment, and business.

Cost of Living in New Zealand

Knowing the tuition fee and cost of living in New Zealand is the most important thing before you make a decision. Tuition fees are generally more affordable than those in the US, UK, or Canada, but higher than in India. Costs vary depending on your area of study. Fields like medicine and engineering are higher. While arts and business tend to be more affordable.

Other than this, living expenses are a separate part, which you need to manage. To maintain a comfortable lifestyle in NZ, Indian students should budget approximately INR 8.5 lakhs per year for living expenses.

Feel free to mention any query in the comment section and we will be happy to answer your question. For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors.