phd new zealand international students

Why a New Zealand PhD?

New zealand’s phd package.

International PhD students in New Zealand enjoy the following benefits:

How to apply

Apply now to your preferred university:.

Victoria University of Wellington

The University of Waikato

The University of Otago

Massey University

Lincoln University

The University of Canterbury

AUT University

The University of Auckland

Jessica Patiño-Pérez | Colombian PhD student

Still have questions?

How much are tuition fees, what is the phd structure, what is the length of a phd programme, how will my phd be assessed, how soon are you planning to begin your studies.

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Great! Get started by using our course search tool to find a programme that suits you. Then follow our 5 step guide to plan your study experience.

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Entry into PhD and Doctoral programmes

A step-by-step guide to apply so you can take a deep dive into topics that enhance your knowledge and unlock a new level of expertise.

At the University of Waikato, you can apply at any time of the year to study towards:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) • Doctor of Education (EdD) • Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) • Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) , and • Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University of Waikato's highest research degree. It offers the opportunity to explore a specific research area or topic that you are passionate about, while giving you advanced skills in research, problem solving and writing. Completing a PhD will open up exciting new employment opportunities, not just in academia, but in government, consulting, research institutes, community organisations and much more.

To earn the PhD degree or other higher degree, you will undertake a research project under the guidance of at least two supervisors, produce a thesis and complete an oral examination. Your work will need to be significant and original, and make a meaningful contribution to your field of study.

Our Higher Research Degrees may have different or additional requirements. You can find the degree regulations by visiting the University of Waikato Calendar and searching the qualification/s you are interested in.

How to apply

Check your eligibility.

To be eligible for PhD or Higher Degree study you must have completed a Bachelor with Honours or a Masters degree, which has a significant research component. A research component must be a thesis, dissertation, or research project which makes up at least 25% of one year’s study of your entry qualification. Research methods papers are not counted as a research component.

Masters degrees that do not meet the research component requirements are not qualifying degrees for entry into Higher Research Degree study.

You must also have achieved a minimum of Second Class, First Division, in your qualifying degree.

If you are an International Student, you will need to meet our   English language requirements

Find and connect with a research supervisor or project

You will need to find a research supervisor who works in your area of interest before you apply. This supervisor will support, guide and mentor you through your research.

To view potential research supervisors, please visit the University of Waikato’s Staff Profiles .

You can filter you search by:

• Research Interests • Publications • Prior students supervised. • Availability to supervise. • Current research projects

Once you have found a suitable supervisor, you will need to email them to discuss your research and how it aligns with their current projects and interests. You will need agreement from at least one University of Waikato supervisor and an Invitation to Apply to proceed further.

Please note, although you may have an agreement from a potential supervisor, your formal application and admission to the PhD or Higher Research Degree programme will require final approval from the University of Waikato Postgraduate Research Committee.

University of Waikato Staff Profiles

You can look for an established project or research area using the University of Waikato Doctoral Opportunities page. Use the filters to look by supervisor, project and topic - new vacancies are added regularly.

Supervisors of established projects will have their own requirements for you to follow as part of their short-listing/screening processes. Please ensure that you clearly indicate the vacancy that you are applying for in your email and that you provide all the information requested.

PhD Opportunities

Receive an Invitation to Apply

After a University of Waikato Supervisor has formally agreed to supervise your PhD or Higher Research Degree, they will send you an email with an Invitation to Apply.

Once you have received your Invitation to Apply, you can move on to preparing and submitting your application for your chosen programme. You will be asked to supply evidence of your Invitation to Apply in your application.

If you do not have an Invitation to Apply, your application will not be considered.

Prepare your application documents

Use our application checklist to ensure that you have all the documents and information you need to complete your Application to Enrol.

We cannot progress your application without all the required documents, so please take the time to make sure you have provided everything requested.

Download our application checklist

Submit your Application to Enrol

Now you have everything you need, you are ready to submit your application using our MyWaikato Application Portal.

You will be guided through the application process to upload your documents, provide evidence of your Invitation to Apply from your supervisor, supply the contact details of your two referees and indicate whether you would like to be considered for a University of Waikato Doctoral Scholarship.

Indicate whether you would like to be considered for a University of Waikato Doctoral Scholarship

Applications for doctoral scholarships are considered four times each year. These scholarships include:

• University of Waikato Doctoral Scholarship • The University of Waikato Māori Doctoral Scholarship • The University of Waikato Doctoral Scholarship for Pacific Peoples

If you have indicated in your application for PhD or Higher Research Degree study that you would like to be considered for a scholarship, your application will be considered in the next scholarship round (see table below). You do not need to complete a separate application or do anything further. In most cases, the date of your application to enrol will determine which round you are considered for a scholarship.

However, to be considered for a scholarship, students must receive an Offer of Place in the doctoral programme prior to the scholarship selection meeting.

Applications go through a competitive, strategic and merit-based selection process, and you will be advised of the scholarship outcome through the MyWaikato portal and by email. It will take up to 8 weeks after receiving an Offer of Place in the doctoral programme to hear the outcome of your scholarship.

You can find answers to frequently asked questions, as well as more information about University of Waikato Doctoral Scholarships, funded research projects, and other externally funded scholarships by visiting the Scholarships Finder .

What happens once I have submitted my Application to Enrol?

Your application will be reviewed by the relevant School/Faculty once we have received all the documentation requested. We will contact you via email if we have any questions or need anything further from you, please keep an eye on your inbox.

Applications are considered monthly from February to November each year. Depending on when you submit your application, it may be held over to the next month for consideration. The School of Graduate Research will let you know when to expect the outcome of your application.

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Postgraduate study for international students

Learn about the doctoral, research masters and taught masters programmes for international students.

Taught or research masters

• Doctoral programmes for international students
• Visit us to further your postgraduate research

Postgraduate study options

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• How programmes are structured

Learn more about our range of postgraduate programmes and find one that interests you.

Future Phd students

Did you know our international PhD students pay the same fees as New Zealand students? Find out more about studying for your PhD with us.

Masters degrees at the University of Auckland are generally offered as either research or taught (coursework) masters. Find out more about the benefits of both.

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PhD in New Zealand : Universities, Costs, Eligibility & Scope

Updated on 29 july, 2024.

Keshav Garg

The New Zealand government’s R&D expenditure in 2023 rose by 17% from 2022, underlining the country’s support for research projects and opportunities. So, if you are thinking about embarking on a PhD journey in New Zealand, this may be the most opportune time for you! 

 Dive into universities, costs, eligibility criteria, and career prospects to make informed decisions. As a prospective PhD candidate, exploring this dynamic academic landscape promises enriching opportunities and experiences. Scroll down to delve deeper into your academic future!

Table of Contents

Why study phd in new zealand.

• 1. Doctor of Juridical Science
• 2. Doctor of Clinical Dentistry
• 3. Doctor of Nursing

4. Doctor of Musical Arts

• 5. Doctor of Education
• 6. Doctor of Midwifery

7. Doctor of Health

8. doctoral study in anthropology.

• 9. Doctoral Study in Maori and Pacific Health

10. Doctoral Study in International Business

Best universities for phd in new zealand, how to apply for phd courses in new zealand, eligibility for phd in new zealand, scholarship for phd in new zealand.

• Cost of doing PhD in New Zealand

Career Prospects after PhD in New Zealand

Student visa requirements, research environment and facilities, job prospects after completing phd.

Studying for a PhD in New Zealand offers international students numerous benefits: 

• New Zealand’s top eight universities, consistently ranked in the QS World Rankings, offer cutting-edge academics and research infrastructure.
• Affordable tuition fees compared to many other countries, alongside a diverse range of curricular and co-curricular interests/activities. 
• Abundant research opportunities across various fields, with New Zealand being particularly esteemed for its excellence in finance, engineering and science. 
• All eight major universities in the country are publicly regulated, funded, and accredited by the government. 

These factors make pursuing a PhD in New Zealand an attractive option for ambitious scholars.

Top 10 Popular PhD Programs in New Zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its robust research infrastructure, student-supportive environment, and academic excellence. The most popular programs for pursuing PhD in New Zealand are as follows:

1. Doctor of Juridical Science 

The most advanced degree in law any student can earn, the Doctor of Juridical Science is one of the highest degrees in New Zealand that allows you to conduct independent research along with full academic support. 

2. Doctor of Clinical Dentistry 

This is one of the most advanced degrees in clinical dentistry that focuses on graduate training in nine disciplines of dentistry. The degree focuses on clinical practice, research, and the skills necessary for obtaining a specialist registration. 

3. Doctor of Nursing 

This doctoral program is a combination of research and taught courses and aims to develop expertise in research and practice and improve patient care. 

Centered on independent research, this program delves into various music domains like composition, music technology, and research-based musicology.

5. Doctor of Education 

A doctoral degree that focuses on educational theory, policies, and practices, the Doctor of Education follows a research-based curriculum and focuses on strengthening teaching and educational communities. 

6. Doctor of Midwifery 

This degree offers the highest level of international midwifery practice and is a combination of research thesis and taught courses. 

This doctoral degree focuses on developing expertise in research and practice in various areas of healthcare. The degree follows a curriculum that is a perfect combination of taught courses and a research thesis. 

Through this program, students can pursue research on the major sub-fields of anthropology, including archaeology, bioanthropology, social anthropology, and ethnomusicology. 

9. Doctoral Study in Maori and Pacific Health 

This doctoral program provides an incredible opportunity to conduct research on Maori and Pacific health. The research areas include socio-economic factors, epidemiology and prevention of health services utilization, evaluation of Pacific and Maori people, research on child health and the economic determinants of disease. 

This doctoral degree allows students to conduct independent research on the chosen areas of international business and build a global network by attending international conferences. 

The best universities for pursuing PhD in New Zealand in 2024 and 2025 are listed below: 

Applying for PhD in New Zealand requires demonstrating your ability to conduct independent research and showcasing how your work will contribute to your chosen field. Before applying, ensure you meet all qualification requirements and understand the PhD requirements in New Zealand for international students. Here are the next few steps: 

• Submit your research proposal with the application. 
• Note that New Zealand universities do not accept direct applications. Instead, reach out to a potential supervisor via email, introducing yourself and outlining your research objectives. 
• Following your email to the supervisor, proceed to apply directly to the institution with your research proposal and supporting documents.

Eligibility for a PhD in New Zealand includes:

• Strong Undergraduate Degree: An undergraduate degree within the 2:1 framework or it’s equivalent. 
• Master’s Degree (preferred): Possession of a master’s degree showcasing proficiency in your chosen subject. 
• Research Experience: Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research is a plus. 
• Supervisor Support: Securing a supervisor willing to guide your PhD research is often crucial.
• English Language Proficiency: Meeting the English language proficiency requirements of the university, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.

 Following are the PhD scholarships for Indian students in New Zealand: 

• University Of Waikato Tuition Scholarship 
• University Of Auckland – Summer Research Scholarships
• AIWA Lucy Kasparian Aharonian Scholarship
• Keith And Dorothy Mackay Postgraduate Travelling Scholarships 
• Wellington Doctoral Submission Scholarship
• Lincoln University Doctoral Scholarships in New Zealand
• The University of Otago – Noni Wright Scholarships in New Zealand
• Sir Ratanji Dalal Research Scholarship
• SCAR Fellowships in Antarctic Research
• D.V. Bryant Trust University of Waikato Scholarship 
• MobilitySeeker Outdoor Sports Scholarship 
• John Monash Scholarships
• OECD CRP Research Fellowships
• Tan Kah Kee Postgraduate Scholarships

Cost of doing PhD in New Zealand 

New Zealand offers comparatively affordable PhD options for international students, with yearly tuition ranging from NZD 6,500 to NZD 9,000 (approximately INR 3.3-4.5 lakhs) for full-time study. The program typically spans three to four years. Upon completion, PhD graduates are eligible for three-year work visas. 

Additionally, student service fees, around NZD 1,000 annually, and living costs of NZD 15,000 to NZD 20,000 per year, depending on location and lifestyle, should be factored in. 

Documents Required

• Personal Statement. 
• Academic transcripts. 
• Passport (valid). 
• English language proficiency test scores. 
• References. 
• New Zealand student visa. 

A PhD program in New Zealand opens doors to fulfilling career opportunities. PhD graduates can pursue full-time positions in thriving sectors such as law, writing, research, and investment banking. Depending on the field and prospects, they may earn up to NZD 156,000 ,roughly equivalent to INR 78 lakhs. 

Popular job roles include environmentalist, data scientist, research scientist, food scientist, senior lecturer, policy advisor, research and development engineer, ecologist, chief technology officer, professor, product development manager, senior mechanical engineer, and research fellow. 

Disclaimer! All course fees and salaries are approximate amounts subject to change depending on various conditions.

To pursue PhD in New Zealand, international students must apply for a fee-paying student visa category. This visa allows the student to stay up to 4 years and takes at least nine weeks to process. The visa permits full-time study and up to 20 hours of part-time work per week (depending on the visa conditions). Applicants must provide the following documents: 

• Proof of identity, such as a valid passport with a photograph. 
• Good character certificate. 
• Proof of good health through a medical examination. 
• Supporting financial documents that prove you will be able to pay the tuition fee. 
• Medical and travel insurance. 
• Proof of supporting funds, such as sponsorships. 
• Parental or legal guardian support. 

New Zealand offers top-notch research facilities, numerous scholarship opportunities for international students, cultural diversity, and high quality of life. The country is home to multiple research centers, and all major universities offer PhD programs. 

Universities in New Zealand have high global rankings and provide an excellent environment for pursuing doctoral and research-based courses. International students benefit from a supportive system, including:

• Scholarships 
• Various support services
• Access to library and learning services
• Health and emergency support services
• Affordable student accommodation 

Completing a PhD in New Zealand opens doors to numerous lucrative job opportunities. Some of the best job profiles and their average annual salaries are: 

New Zealand is an ideal choice for pursuing a PhD due to its inclusive and warm culture and diverse population of different ethnic backgrounds. New Zealand offers affordable study options and the highest quality, and high quality of life. 

The country places no restrictions on work hours during study, and if eligible for the Green List, your spouse can also apply for a work visa during your study period. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a phd in new zealand free.

PhD courses in New Zealand are affordable with many full-funding scholarship options available, ensuring international students pay the same fees as locals. However, staying for the entire program tenure is often mandatory. Funding sources include university, government scholarships, and industry-based bursaries.

Can PhD students work in New Zealand?

Upon completing their PhD, students in New Zealand are granted a three-year work visa with unlimited work rights under their student visas. They can work up to 40 hours per week throughout the year. Additionally, they can apply for a post-study work visa for up to three years with employer support.

How to study PhD in New Zealand without IELTS

Alternatives to IELTS include the TOEFL test or providing evidence of studying in English-medium classes from Classes VIII-XII in your home country. Other language proficiency tests like CAE, PTE, ESOL are also acceptable.

How do you get funding for a PhD in New Zealand?

Funding for PhD studies in New Zealand comes from industry and government scholarships, university assistantships, and grants. Scholarships typically cover tuition and living expenses, with eligibility criteria differing by institution. For instance, the University of Auckland provides doctoral scholarships to students with a GPA of 8 or above in their qualifying programs.

Can international students work while studying for a PhD in New Zealand?

Luckily, there are no work-hour restrictions for students enrolled in PhD or any research master's program. If you are an English language student, you can work up to 20 hours a week. 

Are there any age limits for applying for a PhD in New Zealand?

Although age is not the biggest factor of consideration when seeking admission, the maximum age limit for pursuing a PhD in New Zealand is 50 years.  

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Doctor of Philosophy

UC's Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) involves extensive, sustained, original research in your chosen subject. Learn more about doing a PhD through Te Kura Tāura | UC Graduate School. 

Introduction

The UC Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-only degree, carried out under expert supervision and using world-class facilities. At UC you can complete a PhD in over 70 subjects, joining over 1,000 students from more than 60 nations.

A PhD involves extensive, sustained, and original research in your chosen subject, with the results being presented in a thesis that will contribute to intellectual knowledge of the field. It is a mark of intellectual ability, self-discipline, and commitment. A PhD prepares you for a number of careers, including as an academic.

What will my study involve? keyboard_arrow_down

Why study a phd at uc.

• In addition to expert supervision, UC provides all doctoral students with opportunities to gain transferable skills in areas including communication of research, networking, career planning, databases, statistical analysis, ethics, professional practice, and cultural awareness.
• UC has a number of unique research facilities, collections, resources, and field stations; many of which are renowned globally. See more about our Research impact .
• The University has a thriving postgraduate research community which includes clubs and associations for social interaction and support.
• To find out more about the research interests of staff, start by searching the database in the UC Research Profile . UC Research Profile provides information about individual researchers, the projects they are working on, the research groups they belong to, the specialist equipment that they use for research, and their affiliations.
• There are many benefits for international students studying towards a PhD in Aotearoa New Zealand, such as the possibility to work while studying, apply for a work visa once graduated, pay domestic student fees, and school and work benefits for your partner and children.

Entry requirements keyboard_arrow_down

Entry requirements.

Enrolment in a PhD requires completion of a research-focused honours or master’s degree, at First or Second Class (Division I) Honours or Distinction level (or equivalent qualifications).

Applicants with qualifications from outside Aotearoa New Zealand must have been granted admission to the University. Our admissions team, in consultation with the host department, look at your qualifications and transcripts to ensure that you have the background required to complete a PhD. It is possible that you may be required to complete preparatory courses prior to or after admission into a PhD programme.

In exceptional circumstances applicants without the typical academic background, but who can demonstrate the ability to pursue a PhD, may be admitted at the discretion of the Dean of Postgraduate Research.

One or more courses in this degree may also require vaccinations. Check each course page for more details.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements .

For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Doctor of Philosophy or use the admission requirements checker .

How to apply

PhD students must contact a potential supervisor before applying. Information about the research interests of academic staff (supervisors) can be found on the relevant department website, or the UC Research Profile .

Find out more about how to apply for Doctoral degrees .

See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.

Degree structure keyboard_arrow_down

How do i plan my degree.

You may begin your PhD on the first day of any month of the year. Study and research for the PhD is regarded as a full-time occupation throughout the calendar year.

The minimum period of enrolment for full-time study is 3 years and the maximum period 4 years. There are provisions to apply for part-time study, in which case the minimum period is 4.5 years, and you should complete your thesis within 6 years.

Note: approval for international students to study part-time is only granted in exceptional circumstances and has implications on the status of their student visa.

For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Doctor of Philosophy .

Subjects and courses keyboard_arrow_down

Subjects and courses.

Contact the relevant department for information about these subject areas:

Fees keyboard_arrow_down

Domestic students.

2024 annual fee estimate: $7,623 - $9,182 (subject dependent) per 120 points 2025 annual fee estimate: $8,085 - $9,737 (subject dependent) per 120 points

International students

2024 annual fee estimate: $7,627 - $9,186 (subject dependent) per 120 points  2025 annual fee estimate: $8,085 - $9,737 (subject dependent) per 120 points 

Student Services Levy

2024 SSL : $9.17 per point ($1,100.40 for 120 points) 2025 SSL : $9.72 per point ($1,166.40 for 120 points)

Domestic tuition fees

International tuition fees

Student Services Levy (SSL)

Insurance for international students

Funding your study

Postgraduate Prospectus 2025

Whakatairanga tāura, international prospectus 2024/2025.

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PhD Study in New Zealand

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. The study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a, student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in New Zealand are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

New Zealand institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree. English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment to remain in study, and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in New Zealand?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. Candidates can cost between $5,000-$20,000 per year, although this is still considerably cheaper than US or UK equivalents. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship.

Study a PhD in New Zealand

If you are interested in studying for a research degree in New Zealand, arrange a free consultation with SI-New Zealand today.

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