New Zealand is emerging as a popular destination for higher education, particularly among Indian students. Over the past few years, the number of Indians studying in the country has grown significantly, driven by high-quality education and favorable opportunities for international students.
Why New Zealand is Becoming a Top Choice
Traditional study-abroad destinations like the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia have become increasingly challenging due to stricter visa rules and tighter immigration policies. This has prompted Indian students to explore alternative destinations, and New Zealand has emerged as a leading choice.
Recent data from Education New Zealand and Immigration New Zealand highlights a clear trend: admissions of Indian students increased by 34% during 2024-25. By early 2026, nearly 12,000 Indian students were pursuing degrees in New Zealand. Indians now constitute the second-largest group of international students in the country, making up around 14% of the total student population.
Best Destination for Engineering Studies
One of the main reasons for New Zealand’s rising popularity is the high-quality education it offers. The country has become an excellent destination for engineering studies, with all eight universities ranked among the top 3% globally. Courses are designed to align with industry requirements, with a strong emphasis on practical training and innovation in the classroom. Civil, software, mechanical, and chemical engineering programs are particularly well-regarded.
Top Engineering Universities in New Zealand
According to the latest Times Higher Education (THE) subject rankings, several New Zealand universities are considered among the best for engineering education. Some of the top institutions include:
- University of Auckland
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Waikato
- University of Otago
- Auckland University of Technology
- Massey University
- University of Canterbury
For students planning to pursue engineering abroad in 2026, New Zealand offers an ideal option. The country hosts a significant Indian community—nearly 270,000—who are there for both education and employment. Student visa approvals are also relatively quick, with a 2026 approval rate of approximately 75.4%, making New Zealand a highly accessible destination compared to other countries with rising rejection rates.
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