Cost of Studying in New Zealand for Nigerian Students
If you're thinking about pursuing your studies in New Zealand, it's crucial to explore this detailed guide on the costs involved, including tuition fees, living expenses, and the most affordable universities and educational institutions. This information will assist you in planning effectively for your new life in New Zealand, ensuring you're well-prepared financially and academically for the exciting journey ahead.
With over 20,000 international students enrolled, Next Zealand is gaining prominence as the new worldwide education hub. Over 160 countries are represented in New Zealand's international student community. New Zealand attracts a higher proportion of candidates from the Asia Pacific region than other countries. New Zealand is highly sought after in engineering and Technology, Business and Management, Agriculture and Environmental Studies, Health, Design, and other study subjects.
New Zealand has eight public universities, 18 institutes of technology and polytechnics, and more than 550 private training establishments (PTE). Universities such as the University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology, the University of Otago, the University of Waikato, the University of Canterbury, Massey University, Lincoln University, and Victoria University of Wellington are among the best in the world.
- A bachelor's degree in New Zealand costs between $22,000 and $32,000 NZD in tuition.
- A master's degree in New Zealand typically costs between $26,000 and $37,000 NZD.
- The annual cost of living in New Zealand for overseas students is 20,000-25,000 NZD.
In terms of living standards, New Zealand is among the best in the world. Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin are among the country's most student-friendly cities. In terms of living costs, Auckland and Wellington are more expensive than other cities. Before going to New Zealand to study, international students must apply for a visa.
International students in New Zealand can apply for funding, some of which is provided by the government and some by the university where they are enrolled. Because of its innovative education system, New Zealand is one of the top 20 study abroad destinations for international students. Choosing to study at a university outside of your home country of New Zealand is an exciting opportunity, but it is also one that requires serious deliberation and examination.
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How Much Does it Cost to Study in New Zealand?
Your tuition fee expenditure in New Zealand will vary depending on the type of qualification and the university or school you choose. New Zealand boasts numerous high-ranking universities and colleges, each with their own fee structures. To cover tuition, you'll typically need between NZ$ 22,000 and NZ$ 35,000 per year.
Courses in humanities, education, and arts generally come with lower tuition fees, whereas subjects like medicine and engineering tend to be more expensive. For those planning to pursue postgraduate studies, tuition fees are usually higher, and the costs can vary significantly depending on the programme.
Course |
Cost of Study |
English Language Course |
NZ$350 to $450 per week |
Diploma / Certificate (Level 1 – 5) |
NZ$15,000 per year |
Diploma / Certificate (Level 6) |
NZ$17,000 to $23,000 per year |
Bachelor’s Degree / Graduate Diploma (Level 7) |
NZ$17,000 to $23,000 per year |
Bachelor’s Degree (Honours) (Level 8) |
$22,000 to $32,000 |
Master’s Degree (Level 9) |
$26,000 to $37,000 |
Doctoral Degree (Level 10) |
$6,000 to $8,000 per year |
Tuition Fees in New Zealand for Nigerian Students
Students seeking a high-quality English-language education often find New Zealand an attractive and cost-effective option. It is notably more affordable, being approximately 20% less expensive than Australia and 50% cheaper than education in the US and UK. New Zealand's educational offerings are comprehensive, including foundation courses, undergraduate degrees, postgraduate master's, and research-oriented doctoral programs. Additionally, through the Study Abroad Programme, students have the opportunity to spend a semester or an entire academic year in the United Kingdom, enriching their academic experience by immersing themselves in a different academic and cultural environment. This blend of affordability, quality, and diverse educational pathways makes New Zealand a preferred destination for international students.
University |
Average Tuition Fees |
University of Canterbury |
12250 NZD/year |
Lincoln University |
10700 NZD/year |
University of Auckland |
12000 NZD/year |
Massey University |
28000 NZD/year |
Cost of Studying Undergraduate in New Zealand
Students considering further education often explore the academic opportunities in New Zealand. Supported by government funding, New Zealand's universities are renowned for their high standards and global recognition. All eight universities are strategically located across the country's two main islands, providing diverse geographical and cultural experiences. Impressively, each institution ranks within the top 1000 globally according to QS World University Rankings, a testament to their quality and commitment to excellence. This distinction not only reflects the latest trends in global education but also underscores New Zealand's commitment to providing top-tier education accessible to a diverse international student body.
Programme |
Estimated fees |
Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) |
NZ$41,381.20 - $48,622.10 |
Bachelor of Architectural Studies |
NZ$45,698.10 |
Bachelor of Arts (except performance and science-based courses) |
NZ$35,249.80 |
Bachelor of Arts (performance and science-based courses) |
NZ$41,381.20 |
Bachelor of Commerce |
NZ$41,381.20- $50,834.80 |
Bachelor of Communications |
NZ$41,381.20 - $43,024.00 |
Bachelor of Dance Studies |
NZ$41,381.20 |
Bachelor of Design |
NZ$43,137.20 |
Bachelor of Education (Teaching) |
NZ$35,249.80 - $35488.20 |
Bachelor of Education (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) |
NZ$35,488.20 |
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) |
NZ$41,381.20 - $48,622.10 |
Bachelor of Fine Arts |
NZ$39,410.60 |
Bachelor of Global Studies |
NZ$35,249.80 - $45,698.10 |
Bachelor of Health Sciences |
NZ$35,249.80 - $42,180.00 |
Bachelor of Human Services |
NZ$35,488.20 |
Bachelor of Laws |
NZ$35,249.80 - $41,377.50 |
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery - Year 2 onwards (for Year 1 see Bachelor of Health Sciences) |
NZ$82,833.60 |
Bachelor of Medical Imaging (Honours) |
NZ$37,522.40 - $84,442.20 |
Bachelor of Music |
NZ$35,249.80 - $41,381.20 |
Bachelor of Nursing |
NZ$37,522.40 - $41,381.20 |
Bachelor of Optometry |
NZ$41,381.20 - $60,223.50 |
Bachelor of Pharmacy |
NZ$48,386.30 |
Bachelor of Physical Education |
NZ$35,488.20 |
Bachelor of Property |
NZ$41,381.20 - $42,180.00 |
Bachelor of Science |
NZ$35,249.80 - $50,834.80 |
Bachelor of Social Work |
NZ$35,488.20 |
Bachelor of Sport, Health and Physical Education |
NZ$35,488.20 |
Bachelor of Urban Planning (Honours) |
NZ$41,381.20 - $48,622.10 |
Study Abroad |
NZ$13,200** |
Cost Of Postgraduate Study In New Zealand
There are numerous Masters programmes available in New Zealand. A variety of courses are available, ranging from architecture studies to data science and business management. Here are the best Masters's courses in New Zealand.
Postgraduate course subject |
Annual tuition fee based on 120 points |
Architecture |
NZ$48,621.60 |
Arts |
NZ$39.406.80 |
Arts (science and performance-based courses) |
NZ$46,303.20 |
Business and Economics |
NZ$43,908 |
Business Masters Programmes |
Depends on |
Dance Studies |
NZ$48,621.60 |
Design |
NZ$48,621.60 |
Education |
NZ$38,272.80 |
Engineering |
NZ$48,621.60 |
Engineering (geothermal energy courses) |
NZ$59,770.80 |
Fine Arts |
NZ$42,813.60 |
Law |
NZ$42,585.60 |
Medical and Health Sciences |
NZ$48,386.40 - $84,441.60 |
Music |
NZ$41,380.80 |
Science |
NZ$48,621.60 |
Teaching |
NZ$36,997.50 |
Urban Design |
NZ$48,621.60 |
Urban Planning |
NZ$41,380.80 - $48,621.60 |
Cost of Studying an MBA in New Zealand
New Zealand stands out as a premier choice for professionals pursuing an MBA, renowned for its high-standard education system, cost-effective programmes, and a robust economy offering long-term career prospects. Individuals aiming for a Master's in Business Administration in New Zealand are attracted by the country's academic excellence, diverse range of MBA courses, and promising work opportunities. The nation's higher education landscape presents a vast array of MBA programmes, enabling students to select from a multitude of options tailored to their academic and career aspirations. With an extensive selection of institutions providing hundreds of MBA courses, New Zealand caters to every educational need. MBA aspirants have the flexibility to opt for a traditional MBA focusing on general management or delve into specialised MBA Programmes that concentrate on niche sectors like healthcare management, consulting, and logistics, among others. This wide-ranging educational offering not only satisfies the search intent of prospective students but also aligns with their career objectives, ensuring a comprehensive and fulfilling academic experience in New Zealand.
Top MBA Universities |
Course / Eligibility |
Cost Total Duration |
Eastern Institute of Technology |
Master of Applied Management IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 22,912 1.5 Years |
Massey University (Massey) |
MBA IELTS | TOEFL |
NZD 50,861 1 Year |
Victoria University of Wellington |
Master of Business Administration (Executive) GMAT | IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 42,216 18 Months |
Auckland Institute of Studies |
Master of Business Administration IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 33,157 18 Months |
Otago Polytechnic |
Master of Applied Management IELTS |
NZD 37,980 1.5 Years |
Whitireia New Zealand |
Master of Management IELTS |
NZD 32,966 18 Months |
University of Auckland |
Master of International Business IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 51,443 15 Months |
University of Otago |
Full-Time MBA GMAT | IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 62,898 15-24 Months |
University of Canterbury |
Master of Business Administration IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 52,248 16 Months |
Unitec Institute of Technology |
Master of Applied Business IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 26,124 2 Years |
AUT University |
MBA GMAT | IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
NZD 56,669 1-1.5 Years |
Cost Of Studying Medicine in New Zealand
Annually, approximately 1,500 new doctors are registered by the New Zealand Medical Council, highlighting the excellence of medical education in New Zealand. The MBBS programmes in New Zealand offer high-quality instruction, featuring innovative classroom training, personalised attention, and advanced practical experiences. Additionally, these programmes are research-driven and include structured assessments to enhance medical knowledge. New Zealand's educational system is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and state-of-the-art teaching methodologies, attracting numerous international students. Furthermore, the cost of living is affordable, and several scholarships are available to support students financially.
College Name |
Ranking |
Program |
Fees |
Application Deadline |
University of Auckland |
World Ranking 2020 - 88 |
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (M.B. ChB) |
77,000 NZD |
December. |
University of Otago |
World Ranking 2020 - 176 |
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (M.B. ChB) |
35,000 NZD |
September. |
Cost Of Studying PhD in New Zealand
PhD programs in New Zealand offer an affordable and high-quality educational experience, attracting a significant number of international students. These doctoral programs typically span three to four years, with annual tuition fees ranging from 7,325 NZD to 39,201 NZD. New Zealand's universities are recognized for their excellent infrastructure and quality teaching, standing out as top-ranked institutions globally. Unlike other popular destinations for postgraduate studies, PhD students in New Zealand benefit from no hidden costs, paying the same tuition rates as local students. Additionally, universities provide numerous scholarships to international candidates. Graduates can also avail themselves of a 12-month post-study work visa, enhancing their career prospects.
QS Rankings |
Universities |
Tuition Fee (in NZD) |
Duration |
85 |
University of Auckland |
7,326.60 |
Full-Time: 3 to 4 years. Part-Time: 6 to 8 years |
194 |
University of Otago |
9,760 |
3 to 4 years |
258 |
University of Canterbury |
7,220 - 8,697 |
4 to 5 years |
451 |
Auckland University of Technology |
39, 201 |
3 to 6 years |
236 |
Victoria University of Wellington |
9,671 |
Full Time: 3 years Part-Time: 6 years |
373 |
University of Waikato |
32,577- 42,841 |
3 years |
372 |
Lincoln University |
7,526 |
3 years |
284 |
Massey University |
31,010- 7,610 |
3 years |
Related Article: UK Student Visa Requirements
Cost Of Studying Engineering in New Zealand
University |
Undergraduate |
Postgraduate |
The University of Auckland |
NZ$40,633 |
NZ$37,025 (Engineering); NZ$45,512 (Engineering -geothermal energy courses) |
University of Otago |
NZ$27,700 |
NZ$29,800 |
University of Canterbury |
NZ$29,100- $38,900 |
$35,600- $36,480 |
Victoria University of Wellington |
NZ$31,439 |
NZ$34,118 |
Massey University |
NZ$31,410 - $34,590 |
NZ$ 34,590 |
University of Waikato |
NZ$31,390 |
$33,310 (Engineering -Master’s Thesis); $34,430 (Engineering – Postgraduate) |
Auckland University of Technology |
NZ$34,910 |
NZ$34,910 |
Cost Of Studying Diploma/ Certificate Courses in New Zealand
Individuals in New Zealand can earn certificates and diplomas by fulfilling specific criteria, which then help employers and educational institutions evaluate their readiness and competency in various disciplines. Certificate courses across New Zealand offer practical qualifications, while diplomas indicate a higher level of academic mastery in a particular field. Both credentials are essential for career and academic advancement, reflecting a candidate's dedication and expertise.
Well, if you want to fulfil your medical dreams of yours, then New Zealand is your calling as they provide the best amenities and facilities to support your dream of yours. If you are worried about the path, do not stress it. AECC is filled with experts who can guide you to your accomplishments.