At a glance
What a student from Maharashtra needs to know before deciding — clearly and honestly.
The education
All eight universities are state-funded and globally ranked. Strong in agriculture, environment and health.
The true cost
Moderate fees and living costs; a post-study work visa of up to 3 years for eligible qualifications supports good ROI.
Safety & visa
Check the latest MEA advisory before you travel. Among the safest study destinations, with a relaxed pace of life.
Top universities
A selection of universities popular with Maharashtra students, with indicative tuition.
After you graduate
Post-study work rights are the most important factor — and the most likely to change. Here is the position as of today.
The Post-Study Work Visa lets you work for up to 3 years, depending on your qualification level and where you completed your study. A change to the Post-Study Work Visa takes effect from 16 November 2026, as announced by Immigration New Zealand on 10 September 2026.
Immigration rules, eligibility and salary thresholds change frequently and without notice. Always verify the latest official guidance before you apply, and never treat any figure here as a guarantee of future entitlement.
- Up to 3 years
- Length depends on qualification level and where you studied
- A change takes effect from 16 November 2026
Visa, work & money rules
The official rules behind your visa, work, family and budget planning — last audited 16 September 2026. Rules change often, so confirm each point on the official government or university website before you apply.
Visa & permit fees
The Fee Paying Student Visa costs from NZD 850.
Work while studying
If you are eligible, you can work up to 25 hours a week (raised from 20 on 3 November 2025) and full-time during scheduled breaks. Students on a research master’s or doctoral programme can work unlimited hours.
Proof of funds
For the visa you must show living funds of NZD 20,000 a year (about NZD 1,667 a month), in addition to tuition. Indian students may show these funds through the India Funds Transfer Scheme where applicable. This is a visa requirement, separate from actual living costs.
Health insurance
International students generally need comprehensive travel and health insurance for the whole of their study. Domestic-student health entitlements can apply to some doctoral students and their dependants.
ROI calculator
Enter your own numbers to see total investment and an indicative payback period. This is a guide only — not financial advice.
With the default assumptions (₹22L tuition and ₹11L living costs a year for 2 years, a 10% scholarship and a ₹30L starting salary), total investment is ₹62L and the indicative payback period is 3.2 years.
New Zealand — Master's ROI
Indicative · based on today's assumptions
Figures are indicative only and vary with fees, salaries, exchange rates and visa rules. Treat this as one data point — not conclusive evidence or financial advice.
Safety snapshot
Based on Ministry of External Affairs guidance — always check the latest official advisory before you travel.
Check the latest MEA advisory
Check the latest guidance from the Ministry of External Affairs and the High Commission of India in Wellington before you travel, and register on MADAD (madad.gov.in). Be aware of earthquake-preparedness guidance.
Emergency contacts
Dial 111. MEA helpline: 1800 11 3090.
Register with the embassy
Register at madad.gov.in on arrival so the nearest Indian Mission can reach you in an emergency.
Food, culture & community
What to expect day-to-day — and how to feel at home far from home, as a student from Maharashtra.
Food & groceries
Indian groceries available in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Smaller towns have fewer options — plan ahead.
The Maharashtra community
Close-knit Indian and Maharashtrian community; cultural festivals are celebrated in the main cities.
Maha-Alumni Connect lets you speak with students from your own district who studied at these very universities.
Compare New Zealand with other destinations.
See the same degree across countries, or check the latest safety guidance before you commit.