MBBS in New Zealand (2026)

Q: How much does MBBS cost in New Zealand?

The MBBS (MBChB) program in New Zealand costs around NZD 86,000–90,000 per year (≈ INR 35–41 lakhs). On top of tuition, students should budget NZD 18,000–22,000 (≈ INR 7.5–10 lakhs) annually for living expenses, depending on the city.

Q: Is the New Zealand MBBS degree valid in India?

Yes, MBBS degrees from New Zealand are recognized in India. Indian graduates must clear the FMGE/NExT exam conducted by the National Medical Commission (NMC) before practicing medicine in India. This ensures their qualification aligns with Indian medical standards.

Q: Which country is cheapest for MBBS abroad?

Countries like Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are considered more affordable, with tuition fees starting from INR 2–5 lakhs per year. While New Zealand offers higher quality education, these countries are popular among students seeking budget‑friendly options.

Q: Is MBBS in New Zealand a good choice?

Yes, it is an excellent choice for students who can afford the costs. New Zealand provides world‑class medical training, advanced hospitals, and globally recognized degrees. Graduates enjoy high salaries and strong career prospects both locally and internationally.

Q: What is the duration of MBBS in New Zealand?

The MBBS (MBChB) program typically takes 6 years to complete. It includes pre‑clinical studies, clinical rotations, and hands‑on hospital training, ensuring students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Q: Do I need NEET to study MBBS in New Zealand?

Yes, Indian students must qualify NEET to be eligible for MBBS abroad, including New Zealand. This requirement ensures recognition by the NMC when returning to India for practice.

Q: What entrance exams are required for MBBS in New Zealand?

Applicants must clear the UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test), which assesses medical aptitude. Additionally, English proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE are mandatory for international students.

Q: Can MBBS students work part‑time in New Zealand?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full‑time during holidays. This helps offset living costs and provides valuable work experience, though it cannot fully cover tuition fees.

Q: What scholarships are available for MBBS in New Zealand?

Scholarships such as the NZ Aid Programme, University of Auckland International Excellence Scholarship, and Otago International Scholarships provide financial support. These awards may cover partial tuition or living expenses, depending on merit and eligibility.

Q: What is the average salary of doctors in New Zealand after MBBS?

Fresh MBBS graduates earn around NZD 95,000 per year (≈ INR 48 lakhs). With experience, registrars and specialists can earn NZD 150,000–300,000+ (≈ INR 75 lakhs–1.5 crore) annually, making medicine a highly rewarding career.

By Pragya Sharma

Updated on Mar 30, 2026 | 2.31K+ views

Table of Contents

View all

Top MBBS Universities in New Zealand
Course Structure of MBBS in New Zealand
Eligibility & Admission Requirements for MBBS in New Zealand
Cost of Studying of MBBS in New Zealand
Top Scholarships for MBBS in New Zealand
MBBS Intakes & Admission Deadlines in New Zealand
How to Apply for MBBS in New Zealand
Student Visa Requirements for MBBS Students in New Zealand
Top Cities for MBBS Students in New Zealand
Top Job Opportunities After MBBS in New Zealand
Conclusion

MBBS in New Zealand, officially the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), is a six‑year program offered at the University of Auckland and the University of Otago. The course is taught in English and combines pre‑clinical study with extensive clinical training. Annual tuition fees range between NZD 86,000–90,000 (INR 35–41 lakhs).

Admission requires strong academic performance in science subjects, a qualifying score in UCAT ANZ, and proof of English proficiency with IELTS 6.5 overall. The program is accredited by the Australian Medical Council on behalf of the Medical Council of New Zealand, ensuring global recognition.

Key Highlights:

Aspect	Details
Program Name	Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
Duration	6 years (pre-clinical + clinical training)
Top Universities	University of Auckland, University of Otago
Tuition Fees	NZD 86,000–90,000 per year (INR 35–41 lakhs)
Medium of Instruction	English
Entrance Exam	UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test)
English Requirement	IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) / TOEFL iBT 90+
Career Scope	General practice, surgery, research, postgraduate studies globally

Dreaming of studying in New Zealand? Connect with upGrad experts for personalized guidance and end-to-end support.

Top MBBS Universities in New Zealand

New Zealand has a strong reputation in medical education, with universities recognized globally for their research, clinical training, and academic excellence. While only the University of Auckland and University of Otago offer the MBChB (MBBS equivalent), other institutions contribute significantly to health sciences and allied medical fields.

University Name	Key Highlight
University of Auckland	Top 100 globally in Medicine; advanced clinical exposure and strong research programs.
University of Otago	Historic medical school; top 200 globally; emphasis on hands-on hospital training.
Massey University	Known for health sciences and veterinary medicine research.
University of Canterbury	Strong in life sciences and biomedical research.
Victoria University of Wellington	Focus on health policy and biomedical sciences.
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)	Offers health sciences and allied medical programs.
Lincoln University	Specializes in health-environmental sciences and biotechnology.
University of Waikato	Recognized for life sciences and health-related research.
Unitec Institute of Technology	Provides allied health and applied sciences programs.
Southern Cross University (partnership programs)	Collaborative health sciences initiatives.

Also read: Education System in New Zealand

Course Structure of MBBS in New Zealand

The MBBS program in New Zealand, officially the MBChB, is structured over six years. It begins with foundational sciences, progresses into para-clinical subjects, and culminates in clinical rotations across hospitals. This phased approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure.

Year/Phase	Course Structure
Year 1–2	Pre-clinical studies: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and introductory medical sciences
Year 3–4	Para-clinical training: pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and community medicine
Year 5–6	Clinical rotations: internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, and internship

Top MBBS Specializations in New Zealand

Students pursuing MBBS in New Zealand can later choose from a wide range of specializations. These fields allow graduates to focus on advanced medical practice, research, or clinical expertise, depending on their career goals.

Specialization	Focus Areas
Cardiology	Diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular diseases
Pediatrics	Child health, growth, and developmental medicine
Surgery	General surgery and specialized branches such as neurosurgery or orthopedics
Psychiatry	Mental health care, therapy, and clinical psychology
Oncology	Cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research
Dermatology	Skin diseases, cosmetic procedures, and dermatological surgery
Neurology	Disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system
Gynecology & Obstetrics	Women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth

Eligibility & Admission Requirements for MBBS in New Zealand

Admission to MBBS in New Zealand is competitive and requires strong academic performance, aptitude test scores, and proof of English proficiency. International students, including those from India, must meet specific criteria set by the universities.

1. Academic Requirements for MBBS in New Zealand

Requirement	Details
High School (10+2)	Minimum 75–80% in Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Core Subjects	Biology and Chemistry compulsory; Physics/Math preferred
Age	At least 17 years at the time of admission

2. Entrance Exams for MBBS in New Zealand

Exam	Purpose
UCAT ANZ	University Clinical Aptitude Test for Medicine
NEET (India)	Required for eligibility to practice in India after MBBS abroad

3. English Proficiency Scores for MBBS in New Zealand

Test	Minimum Score
IELTS	6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
TOEFL	90+
PTE Academic	58+

Cost of Studying of MBBS in New Zealand

Studying MBBS in New Zealand involves significant investment, with tuition fees and living expenses forming the bulk of costs. While cost of study in New Zealand is relatively high, living costs in New Zealand are moderate compared to other developed countries, making New Zealand a competitive destination for medical education.

Tuition Fees of MBBS in New Zealand:

University	Annual Tuition (NZD)	Annual Tuition (INR approx.)
University of Auckland	86,561	35–36 lakhs
University of Otago	90,000	37–41 lakhs

Cost of Living of MBBS in New Zealand:

Expense	Monthly Cost (NZD)	Monthly Cost (INR approx.)
Accommodation	1,200–1,500	50,000–62,000
Food	400–600	16,000–25,000
Transport	100–150	4,000–6,000
Miscellaneous	200–300	8,000–12,000

Top Scholarships for MBBS in New Zealand

With tuition fees averaging NZD 86,000–90,000 (≈ INR 35–41 lakhs) per year and living costs around NZD 20,000 (≈ INR 8–10 lakhs) annually, scholarships of New Zealand are essential for international students. New Zealand universities and government programs provide financial aid to reduce this burden, offering partial or full coverage of tuition, living expenses, and sometimes travel.

Scholarship Name	Eligibility Criteria	Coverage (NZD & INR approx.)
NZ International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)	Strong academic record, international students	Full tuition: NZD 86,000–90,000 (INR 35–41 lakhs) + Living: NZD 20,000 (INR 8–10 lakhs)
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship	High-achieving international students	Up to NZD 10,000 (INR 4–5 lakhs)
University of Otago International Scholarships	Merit-based (UG/PG students)	NZD 5,000–10,000 (INR 2–5 lakhs)
New Zealand Aid Programme Scholarships	Students from developing countries (incl. India)	Tuition: NZD 86,000–90,000 + Living: NZD 20,000 + Travel & Insurance (INR 35–41L + 8–10L)
Commonwealth Scholarships (NZ)	Citizens of Commonwealth countries	Tuition: NZD 86,000–90,000 + Living: NZD 20,000 + Travel (INR 35–41L + 8–10L)

MBBS Intakes & Admission Deadlines in New Zealand

New Zealand universities offering MBBS (MBChB) have a single annual intake. Applications open in the first half of the year (Feb–July), and classes begin in February of the following year. With tuition fees around NZD 86,000–90,000 (≈ INR 35–41 lakhs) per year and limited seats (<50 for international students), competition is intense, with acceptance rates below 15%.

Key Points:

Application Window: February to June/July (depending on university).
Academic Year Start: February each year.
Seats for International Students: Very limited (<50 annually).
Acceptance Rate: Around 10–15%.
Application Mode: Online via university portals.

How to Apply for MBBS in New Zealand

Applying for MBBS (MBChB) in New Zealand requires careful planning, as the process is competitive and involves multiple steps. With tuition fees around NZD 86,000–90,000 (INR 35–41 lakhs) per year and limited seats (<50 for international students), applicants must prepare thoroughly.

Step‑by‑Step Application Process:

Research Universities
- Identify MBBS‑offering institutions: University of Auckland & University of Otago.
- Check eligibility criteria (minimum 75–80% in PCB subjects).
Prepare Entrance Exams
- UCAT ANZ: Required for medical aptitude.
- NEET (India): Mandatory for Indian students to practice in India later.
English Proficiency Test
- IELTS (6.5 overall, no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT (90+).
- Cost: IELTS ≈ NZD 410 (INR 20,000).
Submit Online Application
- Apply via university portals between Feb–July.
- Application fee: NZD 100–150 (INR 5,000–7,500).
Upload Documents
- Academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), entrance exam scores, English test results, passport.
Interview (if required)
- Some universities conduct interviews to assess motivation and communication skills.
Receive Offer Letter
- Conditional or unconditional admission offer based on performance.
Pay Initial Deposit
- Tuition deposit ≈ NZD 5,000–10,000 (INR 2–5 lakhs).
Apply for Student Visa
- Submit offer letter, financial proof, and medical insurance.
- Visa fee: NZD 330 (INR 16,000).
Travel & Enrollment

Arrive in New Zealand before February intake and complete enrollment.

Student Visa Requirements for MBBS Students in New Zealand

International students pursuing MBBS (MBChB) must obtain New Zealand's Student Visa before arrival. The visa ensures legal study rights, access to healthcare, and limited work opportunities. Unlike tuition fees, which are paid directly to universities, visa requirements focus on proof of funds, health, and documentation.

Key Requirements:

Offer Letter: Admission confirmation from University of Auckland or University of Otago.
Proof of Living Funds: Minimum NZD 20,000 (≈ INR 8–10 lakhs) per year.
Tuition Fee Evidence: Payment or financial capacity for NZD 86,000–90,000 (≈ INR 35–41 lakhs).
English Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores.
Medical Insurance: Mandatory throughout the study period.
Health & Character Certificates: Medical check‑up and police clearance.
Passport Validity: Must cover the entire study duration.

Visa Costs & Processing:

Requirement / Cost Item	Amount (NZD/INR)
Visa Application Fee	NZD 330 (INR 16,000)
Proof of Living Funds	NZD 20,000 (INR 8–10 lakhs)
Medical Insurance	NZD 600–700 (INR 30,000–35,000) annually
Processing Time	4–6 weeks
Work Rights	20 hrs/week during study

Top Cities for MBBS Students in New Zealand

New Zealand’s medical education hubs are concentrated in a few key cities, each offering unique advantages for MBBS students. From advanced hospitals in Auckland to the student‑centric culture of Dunedin, these cities provide strong academic environments and diverse living experiences.

City	Highlights for Students
Auckland	Largest city, advanced hospitals, strong clinical exposure, multicultural environment
Dunedin	Affordable living, vibrant student culture, historic campus, close‑knit academic community
Wellington	Capital city, government healthcare exposure, cultural diversity, opportunities in national hospitals
Christchurch	Growing medical research hub, balanced lifestyle, peaceful environment, emerging healthcare

Top Job Opportunities After MBBS in New Zealand

MBBS graduates in New Zealand have strong job prospects in 2026, with growing demand for General Practitioners, hospital doctors, and specialists across both urban and rural areas. When exploring jobs in New Zealand, medical professionals benefit from competitive salaries, ranging from NZD 95,000 (INR 48 lakhs) for entry-level roles to NZD 300,000+ (INR 1.5 crore) for senior specialists.

Key Job Roles for MBBS Graduates:

Job Role	Average Salary (NZD/year)	Average Salary (INR/year approx.)
House Officer / Junior Doctor	95,000–110,000	≈ 48–55 lakhs
Registrar (Mid-level Doctor)	120,000–150,000	≈ 60–75 lakhs
General Practitioner (GP)	150,000–220,000	≈ 75 lakhs–1.1 crore
Specialist Doctor (e.g., Surgery, Cardiology)	180,000–300,000+	≈ 90 lakhs–1.5 crore+
Senior Consultant / Surgeon	250,000–600,000	≈ 1.25–3 crore

Source: Glassdoor

Conclusion

Pursuing an MBBS in New Zealand offers international students a globally recognized medical degree, excellent clinical exposure, and rewarding career prospects. With tuition fees ranging from NZD 86,000–90,000 (≈ INR 35–41 lakhs) per year and living costs around NZD 20,000 (≈ INR 8–10 lakhs) annually, scholarships and financial planning play a vital role. Student visas require proof of funds, health checks, and insurance, while cities like Auckland and Dunedin provide diverse academic and lifestyle experiences. Graduates earn competitive salaries between NZD 95,000–300,000+ (≈ INR 48 lakhs–1.5 crore), making New Zealand a promising destination for medical education and careers.

Have more doubts? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts today. We are here to help!

FAQs

How much does MBBS cost in New Zealand?

The MBBS (MBChB) program in New Zealand costs around NZD 86,000–90,000 per year (≈ INR 35–41 lakhs). On top of tuition, students should budget NZD 18,000–22,000 (≈ INR 7.5–10 lakhs) annually for living expenses, depending on the city.

Is the New Zealand MBBS degree valid in India?

Yes, MBBS degrees from New Zealand are recognized in India. Indian graduates must clear the FMGE/NExT exam conducted by the National Medical Commission (NMC) before practicing medicine in India. This ensures their qualification aligns with Indian medical standards.

Which country is cheapest for MBBS abroad?

Countries like Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are considered more affordable, with tuition fees starting from INR 2–5 lakhs per year. While New Zealand offers higher quality education, these countries are popular among students seeking budget‑friendly options.

Is MBBS in New Zealand a good choice?

Yes, it is an excellent choice for students who can afford the costs. New Zealand provides world‑class medical training, advanced hospitals, and globally recognized degrees. Graduates enjoy high salaries and strong career prospects both locally and internationally.

What is the duration of MBBS in New Zealand?

The MBBS (MBChB) program typically takes 6 years to complete. It includes pre‑clinical studies, clinical rotations, and hands‑on hospital training, ensuring students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Do I need NEET to study MBBS in New Zealand?

Yes, Indian students must qualify NEET to be eligible for MBBS abroad, including New Zealand. This requirement ensures recognition by the NMC when returning to India for practice.

What entrance exams are required for MBBS in New Zealand?

Applicants must clear the UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test), which assesses medical aptitude. Additionally, English proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE are mandatory for international students.

Can MBBS students work part‑time in New Zealand?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full‑time during holidays. This helps offset living costs and provides valuable work experience, though it cannot fully cover tuition fees.

What scholarships are available for MBBS in New Zealand?

Scholarships such as the NZ Aid Programme, University of Auckland International Excellence Scholarship, and Otago International Scholarships provide financial support. These awards may cover partial tuition or living expenses, depending on merit and eligibility.

What is the average salary of doctors in New Zealand after MBBS?

Fresh MBBS graduates earn around NZD 95,000 per year (≈ INR 48 lakhs). With experience, registrars and specialists can earn NZD 150,000–300,000+ (≈ INR 75 lakhs–1.5 crore) annually, making medicine a highly rewarding career.

How does MBBS in New Zealand compare to MBBS in Australia?

Both countries offer globally recognized medical degrees. New Zealand has fewer universities and limited seats, making admissions highly competitive. Australia, however, offers more specialization options and slightly higher living costs. Students often compare both before deciding.

Exams to Study Abroad

IELTS Exam GRE Exam GMAT Exam TOEFL Exam SAT Exam

Top Study Abroad Destinations

Study in USA Study in Germany Study in UK Study in Canada Study in Australia Study in Ireland Study in France Study in Netherlands Study in Singapore Study in UAE

Intakes in Popular Countries to Study Abroad

Intakes in Australia Intakes in Germany Intakes in UK Intakes in Canada Intakes in Usa Intakes in Ireland Intakes in France Intakes in Finland Intakes in Netherlands

Cost of Living in Popular Countries

Cost of Living in UK Cost of Living in Australia Cost of Living in USA Cost of Living in Canada Cost of Living in London Cost of Living in Ireland Cost of Living in New York Cost of Living in France Cost of Living in Germany

Job Opportunities for Indian Students in Popular Countries

Jobs in AustraliaJobs in Canada for IndiansJobs in UK Jobs in Netherlands Part Time Jobs in GermanyPart Time Jobs in USA Part Time Jobs in Ireland Part Time Jobs in France

Study Abroad for Free

Free Education in Germany Free Education in USA Free Education in Norway Free Education in Australia Free Education in Europe Free Education in UAE Free Education in Ireland Free Education in France

Scholarships in Popular Countries to Study Abroad

Scholarships in Canada Scholarships in Germany Scholarships in Singapore Scholarships in Netherlands Scholarships in New Zealand Scholarships in Australia Scholarships in Italy Scholarships in France Scholarships in UK Scholarships in Spain

Important Resources

Statement of Purpose What is SGPA Best Education System in the World Best Flying School in the World Vidya Lakshmi Portal Canada vs India Stem Courses in USA MBA Abroad Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Guide to Settle in Europe

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor |181 articles published

Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT,...