Earning and Spending in New Zealand

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Earning & Spending

New Zealand’s welcoming atmosphere extends to its student-friendly visa policies, enabling international students to engage in part-time work while pursuing their studies.

While living costs vary between cities, careful budgeting and student discounts help maintain a balanced and sustainable lifestyle.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees in New Zealand vary across universities and colleges. Below is an approximate annual range.

Undergraduate Courses

• Arts: NZ $10,000 – $12,000
• Business: NZ $12,500 – $15,000
• Science: NZ $12,500 – $18,000

Post-graduate Courses

• Arts: NZ $14,000 – $16,000
• Business: NZ $18,000 – $24,000
• Science: NZ $18,000 – $24,500

Living Expenses

Apart from tuition fees, estimated annual living expenses in New Zealand range from NZ $12,000 to $15,000. This includes accommodation, transportation, groceries, and other daily expenses. Costs may vary based on individual lifestyle choices.

Income and Expenses

Part-Time Work Rights

• Supermarket attendant
• Small restaurant attendant
• Campus library or computer lab jobs
• Door-to-door marketing
• Call center jobs

Part-Time Work Rights

Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester.

Full-Time Work Rights

Students may work full-time during scheduled breaks such as summer, winter, and Christmas holidays.

Minimum Wage Rates

The current minimum wage in New Zealand is approximately NZ $14.75 per hour (before tax) for workers aged 16 and above. Wage rates are subject to change.