The top eight universities in New Zealand are among the best in the QS World University rankings® 2020, six of which rank among the world's top 300. The quality of their teaching makes them the establishments of choice for higher education abroad!

The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland

Ranked 83rd this year, The University of Auckland leads New Zealand's top universities. It is also the largest university by the number of students, with more than 40,000 students enrolled in six campuses and eight faculties. Five campuses are in Auckland, and the sixth is in the country's northernmost city, Whangarei.



University of Otago

University of Otago

Ranked in 176th place in the top of the best universities in the world, the University of Otago. Based in Dunedin, on the south island, it is the oldest university in the country (founded in 1869). it has about 20,800 students enrolled and is known for its attractive architecture and gardens, which has earned it regular recognition as one of the most beautiful universities in the world.

Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington

Located in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, Victoria University of Wellington is ranked 215st in the world this year. Founded in 1897, the university offers many programs and stands out in law, humanities and social sciences.


University of Canterbury

University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury is ranked 227th in the world this year and is one of the oldest universities in New Zealand. It was founded in 1873 as Canterbury College. Located in Christchurch, the largest city on the south island, the university hosts approximately 14,900 students, including 1,100 international students. Accommodation is a critical need for students to perform well in their studies.

University of Waikato

University of Waikato

With an impressive new rise this year (+8 places), the University of Waikato now ranks 266th globally. Its main campus is located on the north island of Hamilton. The university was established in 1964.


Lincoln University

Lincoln University

Lincoln University declines its position in the world rankings, ranking 356th. Lincoln University specializes in improving New Zealand's land-based knowledge, wealth and productivity and ranks among the top 50 global companies in agriculture and forestry.



Massey University

Massey University

This year, Massey University ranks 287th in the QS World University Rankings. It is recognized for its programs' academic excellence and close ties to the community. It is the only university in New Zealand to offer aviation, conflict resolution, veterinary medicine and nanosciences programs.


Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology

Ranked 442nd in the world, Auckland University of Technology (AUT) was founded in 1895 as the Auckland Technical School. It obtained university status in 2000.


Would you like to study in New Zealand?

Would you like to start or continue your studies in New Zealand? You can go to CatEight Course Finder to search for courses provided by the eight best universities and other educational institutions in New Zealand. After finding your wanted courses, you can apply for courses and submit them to target education institutions in New Zealand via CatEight.