Students from all over the world are increasingly choosing New Zealand as their preferred study-abroad destination. The country has experienced impressive growth following the pandemic, and its international education sector is expected to fully recover by 2025.
Auckland, the region’s largest city, is a popular choice among students, being New Zealand’s main entry point. It welcomes foreigners with high-quality education opportunities, vibrant cultural experiences and excellent quality of living, backdropped by a thriving urban environment and amazing natural attractions. Students can choose from several prestigious institutions in the area – the University of Auckland leads the ranks with its position as the top university in the country.
Why study in Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand offers the best of a vibrant urban lifestyle with a mix of deep-rooted culture and access to nature. Here’s why students should consider taking up their studies in the city.
Accessibility
As the main entry point to the region, Auckland welcomes students from all over the world and provides access to many of the region’s key cities and attractions. Students can easily jump from one city to another for a quick weekend getaway.
If they’re looking for something closer to base, they’re also near different beaches, islands and gulfs ready for exploration! Auckland also boasts plenty of urban green spaces within the city, while forests and waterfalls scatter around its edges.
High quality of living
Auckland, New Zealand is one of the world’s top cities, ranking 9th in The Global Liveability Index 2024 (EIU). The city is a great place to call home, with students having easy access to healthcare, transport, infrastructure and government services.
Multicultural community
While Auckland is essentially Kiwi, it’s also a blend of cultures. This global atmosphere and outlook are reflected in the city’s spaces, restaurants and events. Foreigners will find many active communities providing opportunities to meet and socialise with others from similar backgrounds. At the same time, students can immerse themselves in other viewpoints and ways of life.
Post-study work opportunities
New Zealand, as a whole, is highly open to providing post-study work opportunities to international students. Those studying in Auckland may be eligible to remain in the country for up to three years to gain relevant work experience and transferable skills after graduation.
Where to study in Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand is home to multiple prestigious universities. At the top of that list sits the University of Auckland, a world-ranked institution with a strong reputation for quality teaching. It has been recognised for several accolades:
- 65th in QS World University Rankings 2025
- 5th in the world and 1st in Oceania for sustainability (QS World University Sustainability Rankings 2024)
- Highest-ranked university in New Zealand on the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)
- 39th in the Times Higher Education list of the world’s Most International Universities 2024
Auckland offers 120+ undergraduate subjects, making it the most comprehensive university in the country. Its bachelor’s degree programs equip students with focused knowledge and transferable skills that can help them adapt and manage the different roles they may take on over their professional careers. It ranked within the top 50 for a range of subjects in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2024, including:
- Marketing
- Sports related subjects
- Education
- Archaeology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Psychology
- Engineering (Civil)
- Anthropology
- English Language and Literature
- Linguistics.
The university prides itself on its high graduate employability rates – which they can maximise through New Zealand’s generous post-graduate work settings. Students enjoy career support at every step of their academic journey. Plus, their programs allow them to connect with employers while they study and apply their knowledge in industry settings.
University of Auckland for international students
The University of Auckland welcomes over 8,000 international students from more than 100 countries annually. It nurtures a friendly and supportive multicultural community that allows foreigners to feel at home.
The University of Auckland offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options, amounting to NZ$15 million for international students. It has exclusive scholarships for foreign learners:
- India High Achievers Scholarship
- ASEAN High Achievers Scholarships
- International School Leaver Scholarship
- International Student Excellence Scholarship.
Faculty-specific scholarships, country-specific scholarships, doctoral scholarships and government-sponsored scholarships are also available.
International students can take up accommodation near the different University of Auckland campuses. These are designed to be safe and comfortable and provide the necessary amenities a student needs to thrive in school.
The University of Auckland also offers exceptional student services and support. Its international student support system provides those in need with help on a range of issues such as immigration, health and wellbeing, financial advice, accommodation and personal support. This includes a 24/7 emergency number that’s available for urgent concerns.
Learn more about the University of Auckland
upGrad GSP is a proud partner of Auckland. To learn more about studying in Auckland or to know how to apply to the University of Auckland, get in touch with our business development experts today.
