New Zealand’s Gateway to Your Global Future: Auckland University of Technology

• 410th: QS World University Rankings 2026
• 501–600: Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026
• 1st in New Zealand: International outlook (THE World University Rankings 2026)
• 1st in New Zealand: International Student Diversity (QS 2026) / 27th globally
  
• 3rd in New Zealand: Research quality (THE 2026)
• Top 101–200 globally: THE University Impact Rankings 2025 (social and economic impact)
• QS Five-Star Rating: For Teaching, Research, Facilities, Employability, Global Engagement, Good Governance, Diversity, and Environmental Impact

NOTE: AUT is categorised as a “young university” since it obtained university status only in 2000. In those rankings that distinguish between young and centuries-old universities, AUT ranks higher. Five-star QS score for many criteria speaks for itself regarding AUT’s quality.

Academic Requirements

To qualify for Bachelor’s level studies, you must have completed secondary/ high school education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level 3. For Indian students, you should achieve a minimum average of 75% across the four highest percentage of marks received in your Class 12, and at least 60% will need to have been achieved in English.

To qualify for Postgraduate studies, you will need to have gained a suitable Bachelor’s degree that is evenly balanced across your results and has been internally verified. In most cases, a minimum ​GPA of ‘B’ (or 6.0/9.0 or above) in your most recent qualification will be required.

To be eligible for PhD/ Research studies, you must have completed either a Master’s degree or its equivalent and submit your research proposal together with the name of a nominated research supervisor.

Language Requirements

Programmes are delivered in English only. You should have the required English language proficiency for all programmes.

• IELTS (academic test): Overall Band Score of 6.0 – 7.5, no individual band score less than 5.5 (for most programmes)
• TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT): Overall Score of 80
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): Overall Score of 50

NOTE: English requirements may be higher for some programmes. English requirements are generally higher for nursing programmes and health sciences, which usually require either an IELTS Band Score of 6.5 or 7.0.

NOTE: For students who are just below the English requirement, you may take up the AUT English Pathway Programme (AUTEPP). It is an English language course which will allow you to enrol directly in your degree programme at AUT.

Documents Required

• Certified academic transcripts and certificates
• Valid passport copy
• English language test results (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE)
• Personal statement or motivation letter
• CV / Resume (postgraduate applicants)
• Letters of recommendation (some programmes)
• Research proposal and supervisor confirmation (PhD only)
• Portfolio (Architecture, Design, and some Art programmes)

Intakes & Deadlines

AUT has two main intakes per year:

• Intake: Semester 1
  Semester start: February
  Apply By: November of the prior year (apply 3+ months early)
• Intake: Semester 2
  Semester start: July
  Apply By: April–May

While certain professional courses (such as the MBA) have more intakes in May and September, refer to the specific course pages for exact details.

NOTE: AUT advises that you should apply at least three months before your desired intake. This ensures that there is sufficient time for evaluation, acceptance of the offer, and submission of the student visa application.

How to Apply

1. Select your programme from AUT’s comprehensive programme directory available on the university website.
2. Collect your supporting documents, including transcripts, language proficiency scores, personal statement, and any other programme-specific documents.
3. Complete your application form either online at apply.aut.ac.nz or via an authorised AUT representative agent.
4. Pay the application fee of approx NZD 150 (₹830). This is non-refundable.
5. AUT will review your completed application and issue a decision.
6. Once accepted, you can pay your tuition fees.
7. Apply for your student visa based on your acceptance letter & CoE (Confirmation of Enrollment).
8. Apply for campus accommodation in advance, as it gets filled quickly.

Tuition Fees (from AUT’s Official International Fee Schedule):

• Bachelor of Business: NZD 38,122 (₹20.9L)
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB): NZD 40,022 (₹22L)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours): NZD 48,922 (₹26.9L)
• Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences: NZD 42,622 (₹23.4L)
• Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing): NZD 42,822 (₹23.5L)
• Bachelor of International Hospitality Management: NZD 39,522 (₹21.7L)
• Bachelor of Design / Architecture: NZD 43,522 – 47,522 (₹23.9L – ₹26.1L)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): NZD 64,082 (total 180 pts) (₹35.2L)
• Master of Business / Master of Laws: NZD 39,922 – 41,822 (₹21.9L – ₹23L)
• Master of Engineering / IT / Construction Mgmt: NZD 47,122 – 52,322 (₹25.9L – ₹28.8L)
• Master of Computer and Information Sciences: NZD 47,122 (₹25.9L)
• Master of Health Practice / Public Health: NZD 46,522 (₹25.6L)
• PhD (based in New Zealand): NZD 9,624/year (₹5.3L/year)

NOTE: All costs are inclusive of GST and Student Services Fee. There will be an annual adjustment in fees. For paying for your full programme fees in one go upon enrolment, you can secure this year’s fee and not have any subsequent increases. Please check the correct fee amount based on your programme/intake through AUT’s official website.

Living Costs in Auckland:

Auckland is one of the most expensive places in New Zealand; however, relative to Sydney and London, it is relatively inexpensive for students. It is estimated that the cost of living ranges between $ 20,000 to $ 28,000 NZD (about 1100000 to 1540000 INR).

NOTE: The requirement by Immigration New Zealand for international students to have NZD 20,000 per annum in living costs is mandatory for your student visa application process, and that too is besides your tuition fees.

Scholarships for International Students:

AUT International Scholarship, Undergraduate

• NZD 5,000 tuition credit
• New international students enrolling in bachelor’s programmes (120+ points); strong academic record required

AUT International Scholarship, Postgraduate

• NZD 7,000 tuition credit
• New international students enrolling in postgraduate programmes (120+ points); GPA of 6.0/9.0 or equivalent

AUT International Scholarships, South Asia (incl. India)

• Varies per intake
• Region-specific awards; open to students from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and others; applied per semester

AUT Doctoral Scholarship

• Full tuition + living stipend
• PhD candidates; highly competitive; based on research merit

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships (NZ Govt)

• Full funding (tuition + living)
• Students from eligible developing countries, awarded by the New Zealand Government

AUT International Accommodation Scholarship

• Guaranteed on-campus accommodation
• International students starting Semester 2, 2026; competitive selection

NCUK Scholarship

• NZD 10,000 (two awards)
• Students completing NCUK Foundation/Year One programmes transitioning to AUT

NOTE for Indian Students: Each semester, a special South Asia International Scholarship is available from AUT, covering the regions of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives – your region has been given priority for scholarship funding! Always refer to the current semester’s Scholarship page at aut.ac.nz/scholarships for any changes in deadline and award amounts each time you make a new application.

NOTE: The New Zealand Government has established the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship to provide complete financial support to students from developing nations who wish to continue their education in New Zealand. If you are an academically strong student who is also economically disadvantaged, this is a great program for you! You can apply for a scholarship through the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

To study at AUT, you need a Fee-Paying Student Visa from Immigration New Zealand (INZ). This is the standard student visa for full-time courses longer than three months.

Documents Required

• Official Offer of Place / Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from AUT
• Valid passport (must be valid throughout your study period)
• Proof of financial funds (NZD 20,000 per year for living + full tuition fees)
• English language test results
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Return airfare or proof of funds to purchase one
• Medical certificate (from an INZ-approved panel physician)
• Police clearance certificate (for most applicants over 17)

Key Costs & Requirements

• Required Minimum Living Expenses: NZD 20,000 per year (₹11L approx.) as per the official requirements of Immigration New Zealand
• Cost of Applying for a Visa: Approximately NZD 375-430 (₹20,600-23,650 approx.) for online visa application forms
• International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL): NZD 100 (₹5,500 approx.) as a one-time cost for most candidates
• Health Insurance: Compulsory throughout the period of your stay and usually NZD 600-1,200 per year
• Processing Timeframe: Usually 10-30 days; apply three months before the date you plan to commence your studies
• Part-Time Employment: Allowed up to 25 hours per week

NOTE: As of November 3, 2025, the New Zealand Government increased the allowed weekly work hours for eligible student visa holders from 20 to 25 hours per week during term time. This is significant; it means you can earn more to offset your living costs without breaching visa conditions.

NOTE for Indian Students: Immigration New Zealand operates a Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS) through ANZ Bank for students from India, Sri Lanka, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. This scheme lets you transfer your living funds to a New Zealand bank account in a way that Immigration NZ formally accepts as proof of financial capacity. It is the most reliable method for Indian students to satisfy the funds requirement. Ask AUT’s international team or a registered migration agent for guidance.

How to Apply for Your Visa?

1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) will be provided by AUT
2. Collect all necessary documentation (medical, police verification, and financials)
3. File your visa application online via the Immigration Online Portal (ADEPT) at immigration.govt.nz
4. Pay the visa application fee online
5. Provide biometric data if needed at the Visa Application Centre (VFS Global in India)
6. The decision process takes 10-30 working days, usually
7. Get your eVisa and enter New Zealand

Post-Study Work Visa

Once you complete your studies at AUT, you might qualify for a Post Study Work Visa, which enables you to work full-time in New Zealand for a period of three years after your studies. It is an easy route for acquiring work experience in New Zealand.

AUT has three campuses in Auckland. The main City Campus is located in the CBD and features numerous modern and highly awarded buildings. The North Campus is quieter and more suitable for health and education studies. The South Campus in Manukau offers health sciences and business programs for South Auckland students. The university also provides facilities such as high-standard laboratories, a motion capture studio, the AUT Millennium sports science centre, medical facilities for students, and on-campus housing.

Another benefit for students from abroad is the location of the university. Auckland is one of the most livable cities on the planet due to its safety, warmth, and diversity – there are over 200 nationalities represented in this city! The university is also near beaches, hiking trails, and the downtown area. Auckland has also been rated 25th in QS 2025 Best Student Cities based on quality of life and reputation as an employer. Many clubs and events promote on-campus activities and socialisation through AUTSA.

AUT has been awarded a five-star rating for employability from QS, which is the highest level of recognition available. This is due to the work-integrated learning that takes place throughout most AUT courses, thus giving you hands-on industry experience before even graduating. Hiring companies in areas such as health, technology, engineering, finance, hospitality, and education seek out AUT graduates. Major recruitment organisations are Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, PwC, Deloitte, Auckland FC, and many more.

International students are lucky because there is no end to their pathway after completing their studies. On receiving your diploma from AUT, you can get a Post-Study Work Visa, giving you the right to work for three full years in New Zealand.

Applying to a university in a new country, navigating entry requirements, English tests, scholarship deadlines, and visa paperwork is a lot to manage on your own.

My Study Offers is a global education platform for students, helping at every stage of the journey, from choosing the right AUT programme to completing your application, securing scholarships, and getting your New Zealand student visa sorted.

1. What are the entry requirements for AUT as an Indian student?

For undergraduate programmes, Indian students need a minimum of 75% aggregate in Class 12 (four best subjects), with at least 60% in English. For postgraduate programmes, a relevant bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record — typically equivalent to a B average or GPA of 6.0/9.0 — is required. PhD applicants must hold a master’s degree, submit a research proposal, and secure a confirmed AUT supervisor.

2. How much are tuition fees at AUT for international students?

Fees depend entirely on your programme. As a guide from the official 2026 fee schedule: bachelor’s degrees range from approximately NZD 36,500 to NZD 49,000 per year (₹20L – ₹26.9L), postgraduate programmes range from NZD 39,900 to NZD 64,000 (₹21.9L – ₹35.2L), and PhDs for students based in New Zealand cost approximately NZD 9,624 per year (₹5.3L) — the same as domestic students.

3. What English test score does AUT require?

The minimum for most programmes is IELTS 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5. Health and nursing programmes typically require IELTS 6.5 or higher. TOEFL iBT 80 and PTE 50 are also accepted. If you do not meet the requirement, AUT’s English pathway programme (AUTEPP) can help you reach the required level while living in Auckland.

4. Are there scholarships for Indian students at AUT?

Yes. AUT offers a dedicated South Asia International Scholarship each semester for students from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives. There are also general International Excellence Scholarships of NZD 5,000 (undergraduate) or NZD 7,000 (postgraduate), and the NZD 9,624/year PhD fee waiver for domestic-rate pricing. The New Zealand Government’s Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is also available for eligible students.

5. How much money do I need to show for the New Zealand student visa?

Immigration New Zealand requires proof of NZD 20,000 per year (₹11L approx.) for living expenses, plus evidence that you can pay your full tuition fees. The visa application fee is approximately NZD 375–430. For Indian students, the Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS) via ANZ Bank is the most accepted method of demonstrating financial proof.