7 Best Courses to Study in New Zealand: A Guide for Indian Students in 2026

As BrainerrsOverseas, trusted overseas education consultants in Delhi, we understand that choosing the right course is a pivotal step in your journey to study in New Zealand. For international students, New Zealand offers not only high-quality education but also excellent post-study opportunities, safe cities, and globally recognized degrees. Whether you are looking at undergraduate or master’s level, here are the 7 best courses to study in New Zealand, especially attractive for students aiming to study in New Zealand in 2026.

Best Courses to Study

1. Information Technology & Computer Science

One of the most in-demand areas for students who choose to study in New Zealand is Information Technology. This includes specializations like data science, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and software development. These courses align strongly with New Zealand’s growing technology sector and global digital trends. Graduates can build careers in software engineering, data analytics, and AI research. Many universities in New Zealand for international students — such as the University of Auckland, AUT, and the University of Waikato — offer cutting-edge IT and CS programmes with practical training and industry projects. This makes IT one of the best courses to study in New Zealand.

2. Engineering (All Disciplines)

Engineering remains a top choice for international students. Whether it’s civil, mechanical, electrical, or environmental engineering, New Zealand universities provide a strong emphasis on both theoretical foundations and hands-on experience. Engineering courses often include practical labs, site visits, and applied research, which prepare students for real-world problem solving. Well-known institutions such as the University of Canterbury, University of Auckland, and University of Waikato offer engineering programs that are globally accredited and highly respected. For students seeking a stable and high-impact career, engineering in New Zealand is a smart pick.

3. Health Sciences & Nursing

Healthcare is a rapidly growing field, and New Zealand is an ideal destination to study in New Zealand for international students interested in health sciences. Courses in nursing, public health, physiotherapy, and pharmacy are very popular. These programs are designed to combine rigorous academic learning with clinical practice, giving students real-world exposure. Nursing, in particular, is in high demand in New Zealand, making it a strong pathway for employability. For those pursuing a masters in New Zealand for international students, public health or specialized health sciences degrees open doors to leadership and policy-making roles in global healthcare.

4. Business, Management & Finance

Business and management courses are perennially popular among students who want versatility, leadership roles, and global mobility. New Zealand’s business programs cover international business, marketing, supply chain management, finance, and accounting. These master’s or bachelor’s levels are offered across top universities and are tailored to combine academic rigor with practical internships and case‑study driven curriculum. For international students, a business degree from a reputed university in New Zealand translates into strong career opportunities, both in New Zealand and around the world.

5. Agriculture, Food Science & Environmental Studies

Given New Zealand’s rich agricultural heritage and commitment to sustainability, courses in agriculture, food science, agri-technology, environmental management, and sustainability studies are highly relevant. These programmes equip students with knowledge about modern agribusiness, climate-resilient farming, and sustainable resource management. Universities such as Lincoln University and Massey University are known for their agri-science and environmental degree offerings. For students passionate about ecological balance, food security, and sustainable development, these courses are among the most meaningful options to study in New Zealand.

6. Tourism, Hospitality & Event Management

New Zealand is a world-renowned tourist destination, and its educational institutions offer courses in tourism management, hospitality, and event planning that leverage the country’s global appeal. Students can study hotel management, sustainable tourism, and event operations — all while gaining practical exposure through internships. This is ideal for international students aiming to build careers in the global tourism industry or in eco-tourism. Business schools and polytechnics across New Zealand offer these specialized programmes, helping graduates blend passion with professional expertise.

7. Creative Arts, Design & Media

For students with a creative streak, New Zealand offers highly regarded courses in fine arts, graphic design, animation, digital media, and creative writing. These programmes are often provided by universities like Victoria University of Wellington, Massey University, and AUT, coupled with strong industry links and studio-based work. Whether you want to become a visual artist, animator, UX designer, or writer, these creative courses nurture innovation and artistic talent. A degree in creative arts from a university in New Zealand for international students ensures both creative freedom and career-readiness.

Why These Courses Are Ideal for International Students

As expert study abroad consultants in Delhi, at BrainerrsOverseas we help Indian students navigate the many advantages of choosing these courses in New Zealand:

  • Global Recognition: Degrees from top New Zealand universities are recognized worldwide, enhancing your employability.
  • Practical Learning & Innovation: Courses often emphasize applied research, internships, and real-world projects.
  • Post‑Study Work Opportunities: Many programmes in engineering, business, health, and IT provide pathways to stay and work in New Zealand after you graduate.
  • Sustainable & Future-Oriented: Fields like environmental studies and agri-science align with global sustainability trends, positioning you for meaningful careers.
  • Safe & Supportive Study Environment: New Zealand is known for its safe cities, student-friendly campuses, and multicultural communities — making it a strong choice for Indian students to study abroad in New Zealand.

Financial & Visa Considerations: What Indian Students Should Know

Best Courses to Study

When you plan to study New Zealand, international students should account for student visa costs and living expenses. To apply for a student visa, you will need to show proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs. The student visa New Zealand cost also includes visa application fees, health insurance, and maintenance funds. Living on campus or in private accommodation, you must budget for expenses like transport, food, textbooks, and insurance.

Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the course: for example, business or engineering masters programs might cost in the mid to high range, while specialized areas like agriculture or creative arts may differ. As study abroad consultants in Delhi, we help you build a realistic financial plan, assess scholarship opportunities, and arrange education loans if needed.

How BrainerrsOverseas Helps You Choose the Right Course

At BrainerrsOverseas, our mission is to support you across every step of your study in New Zealand journey:

  1. Personalized Course & University Selection: Based on your profile, interests, budget, and career goals, we help you shortlist the best masters in New Zealand or undergraduate courses.
  2. Financial Planning: We assist you in estimating total costs, including tuition, visa, and living expenses, and guide you to scholarships and funding sources.
  3. Application Assistance: From SOPs to academic documentation, we prepare you for a strong application to universities in New Zealand for international students.
  4. Visa Guidance: We guide you through the student visa New Zealand cost, required documents, and application process.
  5. Pre-Departure Support: We help you plan for accommodation, health insurance, arrival, and orientation, ensuring a smooth transition.

Conclusion: Launch Your Global Future with These Top Courses

Choosing to study in New Zealand opens up a world of academic rigor, innovation, and opportunity. Whether you’re interested in IT and computer science, engineering, health sciences, business, agriculture, tourism, or creative arts, New Zealand’s top universities provide world-class programmes that are perfectly tailored for international students. As overseas education consultants in Delhi, BrainerrsOverseas will help you evaluate your options, navigate the admissions and visa process, and make your ambition of studying abroad in New Zealand a reality.

Get in touch with us today — let’s map out your path to studying one of these 7 best courses to study in New Zealand and building a successful global career.

FAQs for New Zealand Study, Visa & Cost Topics

1. What is the cost of living in New Zealand for international students?

The average cost of living in New Zealand is NZD 1,500–2,000 per month, depending on city and lifestyle.

2. How much are monthly expenses in New Zealand for students?

Monthly expenses in New Zealand usually include rent, food, transport, and utilities, totaling NZD 1,200–1,800.

3. How much funds are needed for New Zealand student visa requirements?

Students must show NZD 20,000 per year to cover living expenses for the student visa NZ process.

4. What is the student visa New Zealand cost?

The student visa New Zealand cost typically ranges from NZD 330–400, excluding service charges.

5. What are the New Zealand student visa requirements?

You need an offer of place, proof of funds, tuition fee receipt, valid passport, medicals, and insurance for the New Zealand student visa.

6. What is the New Zealand student visa process?

The New Zealand student visa process includes applying online, submitting documents, biometrics, and receiving an approval letter.

7. How much are New Zealand student visa fees for Indian students?

The NZ student visa fees for Indian applicants are usually NZD 330–430, plus VFS charges.

8. What is included in the New Zealand student visa checklist?

Key documents include passport, offer letter, financial proof, tuition fee payment, health documents, and travel insurance.

9. Is there an age limit for the New Zealand student visa?

There is no strict age limit, but applicants must show genuine study intent and academic progression.

10. What are tuition fees in New Zealand for international students?

Tuition fees in New Zealand for international students range from NZD 20,000–40,000 per year, depending on program and university.

11. What is the cost of a master degree in New Zealand?

The cost of master degree in New Zealand is typically NZD 28,000–45,000 per year.

12. How much does MS in New Zealand cost?

MS in New Zealand cost generally falls between NZD 30,000–50,000 annually.

13. What are the best universities in New Zealand for international students?

Top universities in New Zealand include the University of Auckland, University of Otago, Victoria University of Wellington, and AUT.

14. How many universities in New Zealand can international students apply to?

There are 8 public universities in New Zealand offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs to international students.

15. What are the best colleges in New Zealand for international students?

Best colleges in New Zealand include Wellington Institute of Technology, Manukau Institute of Technology, Unitec, and Otago Polytechnic.