Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS): Degrees, Fees & Guide for International Students

Auckland Institute of Studies, known as AIS, is a private tertiary institute in Auckland that offers NZQA-approved bachelor's and master's degrees, graduate diplomas, and English language courses in business, information technology, tourism, and hospitality management. Unlike many private training establishments, AIS awards degrees, including master's degrees, which can matter for post-study work rights. This guide covers what international students should know: programmes, reported fees, the campus, and how to check post-study work eligibility.

Quick facts snapshot

• Institution: Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS), a private tertiary institute in Auckland
• Qualifications: NZQA-approved bachelor's and master's degrees, graduate diplomas, diplomas, and English courses
• Fields: business, information technology, tourism management, and hospitality management
• Programme count (third-party): about 15, including 7 undergraduate and 8 graduate
• Undergraduate fees (third-party): about NZ$17,920 to NZ$21,584 a year
• Wider fee range (third-party): up to about NZ$39,000 a year for some programmes
• Accommodation (third-party): about NZ$9,680 to NZ$11,880

Rankings and reputation

AIS is a private provider, not a university, so it is not ranked. Its degrees are NZQA-approved, which makes them official New Zealand qualifications. Judge AIS on qualification level, graduate outcomes, and class sizes.

Academics and signature programs

AIS offers a Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Information Technology, Bachelor of Tourism and Hospitality Management, and postgraduate programmes including graduate diplomas and master's degrees in business, IT, and hospitality. Ask for the NZQF level and duration, and whether internships or industry projects are included.

Admissions and international eligibility

Entry depends on academic results and English, with master's programmes usually requiring a bachelor's degree. AIS also offers English programmes. International students need a student visa and must show funds.

English language requirements

• Degree programmes typically require IELTS 6.0 (undergraduate) or 6.5 (postgraduate) in New Zealand; check AIS's requirement
• AIS offers English courses for students below the requirement
• Some programmes may accept other tests
• Confirm with AIS

Application checklist

A typical application includes transcripts, English results, and passport details. Ask about the deposit, refund policy, and intakes.

Tuition, living costs, and scholarships

Third-party sources put undergraduate fees at about NZ$17,920 to NZ$21,584 a year, with some programmes up to about NZ$39,000, likely for master's-level study. Ask AIS for a written quote for your programme and add insurance and Auckland living costs.

Estimated living costs

• New Zealand student visa applicants must show funds to cover living costs for the duration of study
• Student visas allow limited part-time work under current conditions
• Public transport is limited outside the largest cities, so many students walk, cycle, or share rides
• Heating and warm clothing are worthwhile costs in cooler regions
• Arrange housing before you arrive, since rentals can be limited around intakes

Scholarships

I could not confirm AIS scholarships. Ask about merit awards or discounts.

Campus life and student support

AIS's campus is in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Ask about facilities, library, computer labs, and student support.

Career outcomes and post-study work rights

Business, IT, and hospitality graduates can find roles in Auckland's large services economy. Bachelor's and master's degrees generally give stronger post-study work rights than lower-level diplomas. Ask for graduate outcomes.

New Zealand's post-study work visa

Eligibility for a post-study work visa depends on the level and type of your qualification and on studying with an eligible provider. Bachelor's degrees and higher qualifications generally carry longer work rights than lower-level certificates and diplomas, and regional study can affect some conditions. Do not assume all programmes are equal. Confirm with Immigration New Zealand and ask the institution in writing whether your specific programme qualifies.

Degrees at a private institute

In New Zealand, private tertiary providers can offer degrees if NZQA approves them, and these degrees are official qualifications. A bachelor's or master's degree from a private provider can lead to post-study work rights under the same rules as university degrees, subject to Immigration New Zealand's conditions. Check the latest rules.

Living in Auckland

Auckland has beaches, islands, and a diverse population, and is New Zealand's main business centre, but also its most expensive city for rent. Budget for a bond, public transport, and the first month's costs.

Common mistakes applicants make

Applicants sometimes choose a short diploma expecting degree-level work rights, compare fees without checking programme level, or rely on outdated fee lists. Check the level and current fees.

Health insurance and pre-arrival preparation

International students must hold appropriate health and travel insurance for the duration of their visa. Budget for the visa fee, insurance, flights, and initial accommodation, and arrange housing before you arrive.

What to expect in your first months

The first weeks involve orientation, enrolment, and learning how practical, competency-based assessment works, which can differ from exam-heavy systems. Students who use learning support early tend to settle faster.

A realistic budget

At about NZ$20,000 a year for a three-year bachelor's degree plus NZ$20,000 to NZ$25,000 a year in living costs, the total could be about NZ$120,000 to NZ$135,000.

Questions to ask before you accept an offer

• What is the NZQF level and duration of my programme?
• Does it qualify for a post-study work visa?
• What is the fee for my programme?
• Are internships included?
• What English score do I need?
• What are graduate outcomes?

Who AIS suits best

AIS suits students who want an NZQA-approved degree in business, IT, tourism, or hospitality from a private provider in Auckland, often at lower fees than universities. It may suit less well students who want a university campus or research degree.

AIS compared with Auckland universities

Universities offer larger campuses and research, often at higher fees, while AIS offers smaller classes and applied degrees. Compare fees, recognition, and post-study rights.

Step-by-step application roadmap

1. Choose your programme and confirm its level on the qualifications framework.
2. Ask the institution to confirm the entity name and code of practice status.
3. Confirm the English requirement and book a test if needed.
4. Apply with certified transcripts, identity documents, and any portfolio.
5. Accept your offer, apply for your student visa, and arrange insurance.
6. Book accommodation and attend orientation.

Preparing your documents early

Gather certified transcripts, your English test report, passport, portfolio, and proof of funds several months before your intended start. Keep written confirmation of the institution's name, your qualification level, and fees.

How AIS compares on cost

AIS's reported undergraduate fees of about NZ$18,000 to NZ$22,000 a year are lower than many New Zealand universities, where international bachelor's fees often exceed NZ$30,000. Compare the full cost and qualification level.

Tourism and hospitality at AIS

AIS offers tourism and hospitality management degrees that combine business subjects with industry knowledge. Ask whether internships or industry placements are included and which employers students work with.

IT programmes at AIS

AIS's Bachelor of Information Technology and postgraduate IT programmes cover software, networking, and data. Ask about lab facilities, industry certifications, and graduate employment in Auckland's technology sector.

Working while you study

Student visas allow limited part-time work under current conditions, and Auckland has many hospitality and retail jobs. Check the current work limits and do not rely on work income for tuition.

Postgraduate study at AIS

AIS offers graduate diplomas and master's degrees in business, IT, and hospitality. Master's degrees at NZQF level 9 generally give stronger post-study work rights than graduate diplomas. Ask about entry requirements, duration, and whether the programme includes a research project or internship.

English courses and pathways

AIS runs English language courses that can lead into its degree programmes if you reach the required level. Ask how long the English course would take for your current level and whether it is covered by your student visa.

Class sizes and support

Private degree providers often have smaller classes than universities, with more contact with lecturers. Ask about typical class sizes, academic support, and pastoral care for international students.

Visa and code of practice

As a provider enrolling international students, AIS must follow New Zealand's code of practice for the pastoral care of international learners. Ask about its refund policy and student support services.

Intakes and start dates

Private providers often have several intakes a year. Ask which intakes are available for your programme and allow time for visa processing before the start date.

Frequently asked questions