Table of Contents
- Top universities in New Zealand ranking
- The University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- Massey University
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Waikato
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- Auckland University of Technology
- Frequently Asked Questions
New Zealand is home to 8 global universities with a unique academic environment. These universities are renowned for their academic excellence, international participation, and overall design of the programs.
Are you someone dreaming of studying at a top New Zealand university? Explore this blog, as we have covered the top universities in detail for your advantage.
Top universities in New Zealand ranking
New Zealand welcomes international students with globally renowned universities for research and professional prospects. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the following are the top universities in New Zealand:
| University in New Zealand | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
| The University of Auckland | 68 |
| University of Otago | 206 |
| Massey University | 239 |
| Victoria University of Wellington | 241 |
| University of Waikato | 250 |
| University of Canterbury | 256 |
| Lincoln University | 362 |
| Auckland University of Technology (AUT) | 407 |
The University of Auckland
The University of Auckland continues to secure the top ranking nationally while also achieving a global ranking of 68th. In 2024, the university gets the highest indicator score for the percentage of international faculty members. With 27,800 students in 2024, it stands as the largest institution in the country.
Notably, the university is featured in the global top 100 of the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 for 15 disciplines, encompassing fields such as archaeology, education, civil and structural engineering, geography, and sports-related subjects.
University of Otago
As of 2024, the University of Otago is ranked second in New Zealand and 206th globally. The highest score is obtained for the percentage of international faculty members, standing at 44th worldwide.
Tracing its origins back to 1869, it is one of the oldest universities in New Zealand. At present, approximately 20,000 students study at the university, among which around 2,990 are international students.
Massey University
Massey University secures a joint 239th rank globally. Situated in the city of Palmerston North on the North Island, Massey University stands as the sole institution in the country, offering programs in aviation, dispute resolution, veterinary medicine, and nanoscience. International students can enjoy a beautiful campus with excellent academic and professional prospects at Massey University.
Victoria University of Wellington
The Victoria University of Wellington is the fourth top university in New Zealand, with a global ranking of 241st. It achieves its highest indicator score for the percentage of international faculty members, ranking 88th worldwide. Additionally, it holds impressive standings in specific disciplines, ranking 42nd globally for library and information management and 43rd for development studies, as per the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject.
University of Waikato
The University of Waikato ranks 250th globally. Renowned for its internationally recognized research capabilities and facilities spanning various disciplines, the university provides a wide array of qualifications across numerous subject areas. Notably, 15 of its programs are acknowledged and individually ranked by QS.
University of Canterbury
The University of Canterbury achieves a joint ranking of 256th in the 2024 global university rankings. Established in 1873 as a constituent college of the University of New Zealand, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest universities in New Zealand. Presently, it serves a student population of approximately 13,400.
Lincoln University
Lincoln University achieves a joint ranking of 362nd globally. Initially affiliated with the University of Canterbury, it later became an autonomous institution in 1990. Similar to AUT, Lincoln University has garnered an impressively high score for its proportion of international students. Lincoln University secures a position in the top 100 for agriculture and forestry based on the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Auckland University of Technology
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) has attained a joint ranking of 407th globally. Originating in 1895 as the Auckland Technical School, AUT proudly holds the distinction of achieving the highest score among New Zealand universities for the proportion of international students, ranking 48th globally.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is ranked the best university in New Zealand?
According to various university-ranking bodies, the University of Auckland is renowned as the number 1 university in New Zealand, followed by the University of Otago and Massey University.
Which New Zealand universities are better for international students?
The top universities in New Zealand are renowned for international students. These universities include the University of
- Auckland, the University of Otago
- Massey University
- The Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Waikato
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- Auckland University of Technology (AUT).
Is studying in New Zealand expensive?
Studying in New Zealand can be a bit expensive for the average middle-class student. Typically, the tuition fee can be around 22,000 – 35,000 NZD (13,000 – 21,000 USD).
Which courses are the best for studying in New Zealand?
Courses on STEM subjects, hospitality, management, IT, etc., are usually recommended for study in New Zealand. You can study any course in New Zealand as the education system offers a special experience to international students.
Which job has the highest demand in New Zealand?
Job opportunities in subjects like accounting, healthcare and medical, information and communication technology, construction, consulting and strategy, STEM courses, and engineering are in high demand in New Zealand. You can secure a well-paying job after studying in any of these courses.
