Are you thinking about studying Masters in New Zealand? It’s a smart choice.
Many international students from all over the world seek to study Masters in New Zealand. New Zealand offers quality education in a friendly and safe environment. That is why it has attracted many international students.
This guide will help you understand everything about Masters in New Zealand. We will cover universities, courses, costs, and visa processes.
Let’s start your journey to studying in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.
Why Study Masters in New Zealand?
Pursuing Masters in New Zealand is a smart move for international students. New Zealand stands out because its education system meets high global standards. All 8 universities of New Zealand are government-funded and monitored for quality.
With that, some of the key reasons are mentioned below:
Shorter Duration Programs
Many master’s programs in New Zealand finish within 1–2 years. Some universities, such as the University of Auckland and Victoria University of Wellington, provide internationally respected degrees. The overall cost is lower in the UK or Australia.
Safe and Welcoming Environment
New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world. The Kiwi people are friendly and welcoming. International students usually feel comfortable and adapt easily.
Work While You Study
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during classes. They can work full-time during holidays. The minimum wage is over NZD 23 per hour. Many students use part-time jobs to help pay their rent and daily expenses.
Post-Study Work Visa
After completing your master’s degree, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa of up to 3 years. This allows you to gain work experience in New Zealand. Having a New Zealand qualification can also support your PR pathway. It also depends on immigration rules.
Affordable Living Compared to Other Countries
For visa purposes, you need to show at least NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses. Compared to countries like the UK or the USA, overall costs can be more manageable. With that, scholarships are also available for international students. This can reduce expenses.
Strong Industry Connections
Many master’s programs are designed in partnership with local industries. This is especially helpful for students. Fields such as Business, IT, and Engineering. This improves job opportunities after graduation.
Beautiful Natural Environment
New Zealand is known for its mountains, beaches, and peaceful surroundings. Students can enjoy a high quality of life while focusing on their studies.
After you understand the benefits of studying in New Zealand. You also need to explore the top universities that offers masters program.
Top Universities for Master’s in New Zealand
Choosing the right universities for masters is very essential to achieve academic and career goals. New Zealand has 8 renowned universities. All universities offer quality master’s programs.
Here are the top choices for international students.
University of Auckland
The University of Auckland is the most prestigious choice for students from Nepal. It is the leading public university of New Zealand, ranked in the top 100 globally. It offers comprehensive programs across all disciplines.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #65
- Location: Auckland (Central City Campus)
- Student Population: 45,000+ with students from 100+ countries)
- Best For: Engineering, Business, Medicine, Arts, and IT.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 48,000 – 58,000 (varies by program)
University of Otago
The University of Otago is the second-highest-ranked school in New Zealand. It is the oldest university in New Zealand. It is world-renowned for its Health Sciences and a vibrant student culture.
- QS World Ranking 2026:#197
- Location: Dunedin (South Island)
- Student Population: 21,000+ (Including 3,000+ international students)
- Best For: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Biomedical Sciences.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 38,000 – 45,000 (varies by program)
Victoria University of Wellington
It is located in the capital city of New Zealand. The campuses are spread across the city, keeping you close to Parliament, the Supreme Court, and major national archives.It is famous for law, Humanities, and its proximity to the government.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #240
- Location: Wellington (Multiple city campuses)
- Student Population: 21,000+ (Including 3,000+ international students from 100+ countries)
- Best For: Law, Politics, Architecture, and Creative Arts.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 36,000 – 44,000 (varies by program)
University of Canterbury
The University of Canterbury (UC) is famous for its hands-on approach. If you are a student from Nepal who prefers practical building and creating over just reading theory, UC is your ideal match.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #261
- Location: Christchurch (Garden City)
- Student Population: 26,000+ (Rapidly growing international community)
- Best For: Civil & Structural Engineering, Product Design, and Entrepreneurship.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 38,000 – 46,000 (varies by program)
Massey University
It is known as the “University of New Zealand” because of its presence across both the North and South Islands. It offers unique programs that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #230
- Location: Palmerston North (Main), Auckland, and Wellington
- Student Population: 27,000+ (Including a large distance-learning community)
- Best For: Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Aviation, and Creative Arts.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 34,000 – 42,000 (varies by program)
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
AUT is the fastest-growing university in New Zealand. It is New Zealand’s leading modern university. It is known for its deep industry connections and high graduate employment.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #410
- Location: Auckland (Three campuses: City, North, and South)
- Student Population: 29,000+ (Including 4,000+ international students from 100+ countries)
- Best For: Art & Design, Hospitality, Computer Science, and Sports Science.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 36,000 – 44,000 (varies by program)
University of Waikato
This is world-renowned for its research and triple-crowned accredited management school. It provides a supportive environment with smaller class sizes and easy access to award-winning lectures.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #281
- Location: Hamilton (Main Campus) and Tauranga
- Student Population: 12,000+ (students from 80+ countries)
- Best For: Business & Management, Computer Science, Education, and Communication.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 35,000 – 43,000 (varies by program)
Lincoln University
It is New Zealand’s only specialist land-based university. It is famous for its focus on sustainability and agriculture. It currently holds the record for the highest graduate employment rate in the country.
- QS World Ranking 2026: #407
- Location: Lincoln, Canterbury (20 minutes from Christchurch)
- Student Population: 4,000+ (Small, tight-knit community)
- Best For: Agriculture & Forestry, Tourism Management, Agribusiness, and Environmental Science.
- Estimated Annual Fee (2026): NZD 32,000 – 38,000 (varies by program)
Now that you know the top universities, let’s look at the most popular master’s courses in New Zealand.
Need help choosing a university or program? Check ICCC Educational Consultancy.
Popular Master’s Courses in New Zealand
Students who study Masters in New Zealand can choose from many excellent programs.
Here are the most popular master’s programs for international students.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (any field) with work experience (often 2–3 years).
Skills: Leadership, strategic thinking, finance, marketing, decision-making.
Salary: NZD 80,000–120,000 per year
Career Opportunities: Business manager, consultant, project manager, and operations manager.
Master of Information Technology (MIT)
Qualification: Bachelor’s in IT, Computer Science, or related field. (Some may accept non-IT with bridging).
Skills: Programming, cybersecurity, cloud computing, system design.
Salary: NZD 70,000–110,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Software developer, IT analyst, cybersecurity specialist, and cloud engineer.
Master of Engineering
Qualification: Bachelor’s in Engineering (same or related field).
Skills: Technical design, research, problem-solving, and project management.
Salary: NZD 75,000–115,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Civil engineer, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, and project engineer.
Master of Data Science
Qualification: Background in IT, mathematics, statistics, or engineering.
Skills: Data analysis, machine learning, Python/R, AI tools.
Salary: NZD 85,000–130,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Data scientist, data analyst, AI specialist, and business intelligence analyst.
Master of Applied Finance
Qualification: Bachelor’s in business, finance, economics, or related field.
Skills: Financial analysis, investment planning, risk management.
Salary: NZD 70,000–120,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Financial analyst, investment advisor, banking professional, and risk analyst.
Master of Public Health
Qualification: Bachelor’s in health sciences, nursing, biology, or related field.
Skills: Health policy, research, epidemiology, and community health management.
Salary: NZD 65,000–100,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Public health advisor, health program manager, and research officer.
Master of Environmental Management
Qualification: Bachelor’s in environmental science, geography, or related field.
Skills: Sustainability planning, environmental policy, resource management.
Salary: NZD 60,000–95,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Environmental consultant, sustainability officer, and conservation advisor.
Master of Professional Accounting
Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (accounting or non-accounting, depending on program).
Skills: Financial reporting, taxation, auditing, business law.
Salary: NZD 65,000–100,000 per year.
Career Opportunities: Accountant, auditor, tax consultant, and financial controller.
Business and IT programs are in high demand and have good job prospects in New Zealand. Engineering and health sciences also offer strong career paths.
Intakes for Masters Programs
New Zealand universities have two main intakes each year. Some programs may offer only one intake. For that, you need to plan your application on time.
February Intake (Semester 1)
The main intake starts in February. This is the beginning of the academic year in New Zealand. Most programs are available in this intake.
Application deadlines are usually in November or December of the previous year. You need to apply early to secure your place and arrange accommodation.
July Intake (Semester 2)
The second intake is in July. Fewer programs are available compared to February. This intake is for the students who miss February deadlines or need more preparation time.
Application deadlines fall around April or May. Check your specific program, as some may not offer July admission.
November Intake (Semester 3)
This intake is for fast-track business or ICT programs. Course options are limited for international students.
Application deadlines for the November intake fall around September. Check your program carefully, as only some Master’s degrees, like Business or IT, offer a late-year intake.
Admission Requirements to Study Masters in New Zealand
Students who want to study Masters in New Zealand must meet specific requirements. The requirements vary by university and program.
If the admission process feels confusing, ICCC Educational Consultancy can guide you. We will help with university choice, documents, scholarships, and student visas.
This makes your journey to a Masters in New Zealand much easier.
Here are the general criteria.
Academic Requirements
There are some essential academic requirements for Masters in New Zealand. You need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Most universities require at least 60% marks or equivalent GPA. Some programs ask for work experience, especially MBA programs.
You need a strong academic background for Research-based masters. You may need to submit a research proposal. Some programs require reference letters from professors.
English Language Tests
An English test is mandatory for international students. Most universities accept these tests:
- IELTS: Overall 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
- TOEFL: Overall 90 (internet-based test)
- PTE: Overall 58 with no section below 50
Some programs need higher scores. MBA and teaching programs often require 7.0 in IELTS. You need to check your specific program requirements early. This gives you time to prepare and retake tests if needed.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in New Zealand
It is very important to understand the costs when you are planning to pursue Masters in New Zealand. Tuition fees and living expenses vary by city and lifestyle.
All the details are provided clearly in a chart below:
| Category | Cost (NZD) Per Year |
| Tuition Fees | 26,000 – 45,000 |
| Business & Management | 28,000 – 40,000 |
| Engineering | 35,000 – 45,000 |
| IT & Computer Science | 30,000 – 40,000 |
| Arts & Humanities | 26,000 – 35,000 |
These are yearly costs. Most master’s programs take 1 to 2 years to complete.
Living Costs
The cost of living in New Zealand varies by city. Immigration requires proof of at least NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses.
However, actual expenses may be higher in big cities. They are mentioned below in a chart:
| Living Costs | Cost (NZD) Per Week |
| Accommodation | 200-400 |
| Food & Groceries | 80-120 |
| Transport | 40-60 |
| Utilities & Internet | 30-50 |
Auckland and Wellington are more expensive than smaller cities. Dunedin and Palmerston North offer lower living costs. Sharing accommodation can help reduce expenses significantly.
Scholarships for International Students
For international students, several scholarships are available for Masters in New Zealand. These can help reduce your financial burden. Competition is strong among internationals, so applying early with strong applications is essential.
Government Scholarships
New Zealand offers government-funded scholarships. The New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship covers full tuition and living costs. It is available for students from Commonwealth countries.
ASEAN Scholarships support students from Southeast Asian countries. These scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a living allowance. This makes it easier for international students.
University Scholarships
Each university offers its own scholarships. These are based on academic merit or financial need. The University of Auckland offers the Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship. Victoria University provides several international excellence awards.
You need to check each university website for available scholarships. Apply early, as deadlines are often months before program start dates.
Study Masters in New Zealand Visa Process
The application process requires careful planning. It requires organization. Start early to meet all deadlines successfully.
Quick Application Steps:
- Get Your Offer: Secure an “Offer of Place” from an approved University.
- Prepare Documents: Gather your Passport, academic transcripts, and a Statement of Purpose(SOP)
- Show Your Funds: You must prove you have NZD 20,000 per year (approx. NPR 16.5 Lakhs) for living costs, plus your tuition fees.
- Apply Online: Apply online through the Immigration New Zealand student visa portal.
To do this, you need to create a RealMe account on the official website. Once inside, upload your PDFs and pay the NZD 850 fee. - Biometrics & Medical: Visit an approved doctor for a medical check and VFS Global in Kathmandu for fingerprints.
- Wait for Decision: Most university visas are approved within 4–6 weeks.
Key requirements:
| Requirements | Details |
| Funds | NZD 20,000/year (Living) + First-year tuition |
| English | IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) for Master’s |
| Work Rights | Work 20 hours/week (term) and full-time (holidays) |
| Visa Fee | Approx. NZD 850 (including tourism levy) |
Work Opportunities While Studying Masters In New Zealand
You are allowed to work while studying. This helps gain experience and earn money. New Zealand offers several work options for international students.
The chart below represents work hours, wages, post-study visas, and PR pathways.
| Category | Details |
| Work During Studies | Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays |
| Typical Jobs | Retail, hospitality, on-campus roles |
| Minimum Wage | NZD 23.15/hour (2024) |
| Earnings (Part-Time) | NZD 400 – 600/week |
| Post-Study Work Visa | Up to 3 years after graduation; full-time work allowed |
| Eligibility | Master’s program ≥30 weeks, Level 7+ qualification |
Important Note:
For internationals, PR is not guaranteed. Your approval depends on your job, work experience, and current immigration policies.
Why Choose ICCC Educational Consultancy?
With a decade of experience, over 5,000 student placements, and a 98% visa success rate, ICCC is the leading educational consultancy of Nepal.
We have 10 branches: Kamaladi (Head Office),
Putalisadak,
Chabahil,
Pokhara,
Chitwan,
Butwal,
Jhapa,
Itahari,
Dhangadhi,
Toronto
What we offer:
- Free IELTS/PTE preparation
- Transparent process, no hidden fees
- Ongoing support even after arrival
- Partnership with 200+ universities
- Personalized counseling
- Pre-departure orientation
For more detailed information, visit our website
Final Thoughts
A master’s degree in New Zealand offers quality education in a safe environment with shorter programs that save time and money. Work rights help you gain experience and income. Post-study work visa provide career runway.
Many students find skilled jobs and eventually settle here. But that requires proper planning.
You need to research universities that match your goals. After that, prepare for your English test. Gather required documents and apply for scholarships.
New Zealand balances education quality with lifestyle. The people are genuinely welcoming, and the natural environment is exceptional. This helps you to balance quality of life in New Zealand.
Start early. Your master’s degree in New Zealand could be the decision that shapes your future.
FAQs – Masters In New Zealand
1. How long does a masters in New Zealand take?
Most programs take 1 to 2 years to complete. Coursework masters usually finish in 1 to 1.5 years, whereas research based masters may take 2 years.
2. Can I work while doing my masters in New Zealand?
Yes. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. During holidays, you can work full-time without restrictions.
3. Is IELTS required for a New Zealand student visa?
Yes. Most universities require IELTS or equivalent English tests. Your visa application needs proof of English test from the university offer letter.
4. What is the cost of living in New Zealand for students?
You need at least NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses. Actual expenses vary by city and lifestyle. Auckland costs more than smaller cities.
5. Can I get PR after masters in New Zealand?
There is a pathway to PR but no guarantee. You can apply for a post study work visa first. After gaining work experience, you may qualify for the Skilled Migrant Category.
6. Which city is best for students in New Zealand?
Auckland offers more job opportunities but higher costs. Wellington has a good balance of opportunities and lifestyle. Dunedin is affordable and student-friendly. You need to choose based on your program and budget.
7. Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. Government and university scholarships are available. Competition is high. Apply early with strong academic records and good applications.
8. How long does the student visa take to process?
Most New Zealand student visa applications take 4 to 6 weeks. You need to apply early to avoid delays. Make sure all documents are complete before submission.
Conclusion
Pursuing a Masters in New Zealand opens many doors. You get quality education in a safe and beautiful country. The programs are shorter, which will save your time and money.
Work rights during study help you gain experience and earn money. The post-study work visa gives you time to start your career. Many students successfully find skilled jobs and eventually settle in New Zealand.
Start planning early. Research universities and programs that match your goals. Prepare your English test and gather required documents. Apply for scholarships to reduce costs.
