Scholarships and Study Costs in New Zealand
There is a wide range of scholarships available to study in New Zealand and gain access to high-quality education from world-renowned institutions.
Full Scholarships in New Zealand:This type of scholarship provides international students with full coverage of tuition fees and, in many cases, accommodation costs. Some full scholarships may also include additional benefits such as travel allowances, living stipends, and medical insurance. The exact coverage depends on the scholarship provider and the terms set by the host institution or funding body. Universities, government agencies, and external organizations in New Zealand offer full scholarships for eligible international students.
Partial Scholarships in New Zealand:Partial scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees or living expenses, while the student is responsible for the remaining costs. Coverage may range from 50% to 75% or even 80%, depending on the scholarship. These scholarships usually do not include travel or medical expenses, although conditions vary by institution and scholarship type.
Self-Funding Study in New Zealand:Studying without a scholarship requires students to cover all tuition fees and living expenses independently. Unlike some European countries, most universities in New Zealand charge tuition fees for international students. As a result, self-funded students must plan carefully to meet both academic and personal living costs.
Tuition fees vary depending on the level of study, course, and institution.
Average Tuition Expense:For self-funded international students, undergraduate tuition fees typically range from 22,000 – 35,000 NZD per year. Postgraduate and specialized programs, such as medicine or engineering, may cost between 35,000 – 50,000 NZD or more annually.
Average Accommodation Fee:Accommodation costs generally range between 800 – 1,500 NZD per month, depending on the city, type of housing, and lifestyle. Major cities such as Auckland and Wellington tend to be more expensive, with accommodation costs potentially exceeding 1,600 NZD per month.
Average Food Expenses:A student’s monthly food expenses may average around 300 – 500 NZD if managed wisely. Cooking at home and budgeting effectively can help keep costs within this range.
Average Transport Costs:Public transportation costs vary by city, but students can expect to spend approximately 100 – 200 NZD per month on bus or train fares. Many cities offer student discounts on public transport.
Average Extra Expenses:This includes utilities, internet and mobile phone costs, study materials such as books, and personal expenses. On average, these additional costs may amount to around 200 – 300 NZD per month.
The Total Average Cost of Studying in New Zealand:Depending on the city, institution, and lifestyle, the total annual cost of studying in New Zealand generally ranges from 30,000 – 50,000 NZD for international students.

