“Good decisions come from the right information.” And when it comes to choosing where to study in New Zealand, the right information can change your entire journey. If you’ve reached this blog, your search might finally come to an end, because here, we don’t just repeat what’s written on official websites; we bring you trusted, real, and experience-backed insights that can shape your study abroad path. Today, we’re exploring one of the most respected names in New Zealand’s private education sector, the Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS). AIS stands out for its globally relevant courses, career-focused programs, and outstanding student support, especially for Indian students planning to study in New Zealand. What makes this blog special is that it’s written under the expert supervision of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) and a great AIS NZ agent in India, representing West Highlander Immigration. West Highlander has long been associated with leading NZQA Category 1 institutions, guiding students step-by-step, from course selection to visa success. As you continue reading, you’ll not only discover AIS’s tuition fees, scholarships, courses, and intakes but also understand how West Highlander’s official partnership with AIS ensures your application is accurate, timely, and strategically strong. Stay with us till the end, this might just be the sign you were waiting for to begin your academic journey at Auckland Institute of Studies, New Zealand.
Overview of Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS)
Before we move ahead let’s take a moment to know the place where your study journey might begin. After all, the institute where you will study, learn, and grow will become a part of your story too. Located in the heart of Auckland, New Zealand, AIS is one of the country’s largest and most trusted private degree-granting institutions. Established in 1990, it has built a strong reputation for providing quality education that combines academic learning with real-world experience. The institute operates from two modern campuses- St Helens Campus and Asquith Campus, both offering a welcoming, multicultural environment for international students. Recognised as a Category 1 NZQA provider, AIS is known for maintaining the highest standards of teaching and student support in New Zealand’s education system. The campus facilities are designed to give students a complete learning experience, from advanced computer labs and libraries to recreation spaces and student lounges. Over the years, AIS has earned global recognition for its innovative learning approach and consistent graduate success, making it one of the top choices among Indian students seeking quality education in New Zealand.
What is a Category 1 NZQA Institute?
In New Zealand, every private institute is regularly reviewed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and placed into one of four categories- Category 1 being the highest. This classification isn’t just a label; it’s a sign of trust and academic excellence. When an institute is Category 1, it means it has met the strictest standards of quality education, student satisfaction, and graduate outcomes. The teaching quality, course design, and student support are all reviewed to make sure students are receiving the best possible learning experience. Graduates from Category 1 institutions often enjoy stronger career opportunities because employers recognise the value of their qualifications. These institutes also maintain close ties with industries, ensuring that their curriculum stays relevant to the latest job market needs. This is one of the biggest reasons why AIS attracts so many international students, including a large number of Indians, it promises not just a degree, but a career-ready future built on quality and credibility.
Popular Programs offered at AIS for International Students
Business & Business Administration
At AIS, the Business suite includes qualifications such as the Bachelor of Business (BBus), Graduate Diploma in Business (GDBus), Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration (PGCBA), Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PGDBA) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA). The Bachelor is for students who have completed secondary or equivalent and want a full career in business across management, marketing, accounting or economics. The Graduate Diploma is aimed at graduates (from other fields or business) who wish to broaden or shift into business. The postgraduate-level programmes suit professionals already in work who seek leadership roles. The curriculum emphasises core business skills (for example Accounting Systems & Processes, Fundamentals of Information Systems & Technology, Introduction to Management, Fundamentals of Marketing) and allows elective pathways in specialisations. Faculty are experienced and deliver applied, industry-relevant work so you graduate not just with theory but a toolkit for real business challenges. This makes AIS an attractive option for Indian students in AIS, as they value practical business readiness in a global study-in-New Zealand context.
Information Technology (IT)
AIS offers programmes in IT including the New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support (Level 5), the Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT), Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (GDIT), Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology (PGDIT) and the Master of Information Technology (MIT). Indian students keen on computing, software, networks, technical support or IT management will find these programmes a good fit. The curriculum combines hands-on training with theory: students use the latest software, engage in industry visits, and gain practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Faculty have both academic credentials and industry experience, meaning assignments and projects reflect current industry tools and standards. For Indian students studying in New Zealand at AIS, this strong practical foundation is valuable when you aim to build a career in the growing IT field or shift fields into tech.
Hospitality Management & Service Industries
For Indian students interested in hospitality, tourism, hotel or service industry roles, AIS offers a clear pathway: for example the New Zealand Diploma in Hospitality Management (Level 5) and a study pathway into the Bachelor of Business (Tourism & Hospitality Management). The programme is designed for students who want to be job-ready quickly in hospitality operations, guest relations, food and beverage service, event management, or tourism business. The curriculum covers communication for the industry, food production operations, beverage service, management basics, and marketing tailored for hospitality. Faculty bring in industry experience so you learn from professionals with actual service sector backgrounds. This kind of programme is suitable for Indian students in AIS who want to work in dynamic, people-facing roles and study in New Zealand with an institution that supports practical service-industry training and real job-ready skills.
West Highlander- Your Trusted Partner
Every immigration story begins with a question, “Can I really make it?” And at West Highlander Immigration, our answer has always been “Yes, you can, and we’ll show you how.” Immigration is not just about paperwork; it’s about people, their ambitions, and their belief that life can be bigger than the boundaries they were born into. For nearly two decades, we have been the bridge between aspirations and destinations, turning uncertainty into confidence and applications into approvals. Founded in 2005 by Ms. Parwinder Kaur (Director) and Mr. Gurvinder Singh (Managing Director), West Highlander was built on one promise, to serve, not just assist. What began as a small setup with a big dream has evolved into one of India’s most trusted names in immigration and study abroad services. Our philosophy is simple: your success comes before ours. Every consultation, every document check, every visa strategy, it all begins with understanding you. Our foundation stands on three pillars- Vision, Mission, and Purpose. Our vision is to be the most trusted study abroad and immigration consultancy in India. Our mission is to deliver clear, ethical, and effective services that simplify your immigration journey. And our purpose, to fill the trust gap in this industry by doing what’s right, every single time. Because at West Highlander, we believe one truth: “Visas open borders, but trust opens futures.”
Shared Vision: AIS and West Highlander- Partners in Building Global Futures
True partnerships aren’t built on paperwork, they’re built on purpose. The collaboration between Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) and West Highlander Immigration represents more than just an academic connection; it’s a bridge between ambition and achievement. Both institutions share a bold, student-first vision, to empower learners with knowledge, confidence, and global perspective. AIS, with its Category 1 NZQA recognition, stands as a symbol of academic excellence and career-ready education. West Highlander, led by Ms. Parwinder Kaur, mirrors that same excellence through ethical guidance, transparency, and trusted immigration expertise. Together, they form a powerful alliance that ensures every student’s journey to study in New Zealand is not only successful but meaningful. From your very first counselling session to your first step on AIS’s vibrant Auckland campus, this partnership stands beside you, guiding, mentoring, and believing in your potential. It’s not just about getting an offer letter; it’s about shaping global futures with trust, precision, and purpose.
What the AIS-West Highlander Partnership Means for You?
When you plan to study abroad, having the right guidance can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one. And that’s exactly where the Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS)- West Highlander Immigration partnership becomes your greatest advantage. This partnership is not just about applying to a university; it’s about ensuring that your entire experience, from admission to graduation, is well-supported, transparent, and successful. With Ms. Parwinder Kaur, leading West Highlander, this partnership carries credibility, legal authorization, and direct access to official university support. Because of this trusted collaboration, even the representatives from top New Zealand institutes visit our office directly. In fact, Mr. Vishal Anjoria, Market Manager at AIS, (Auckland Institute of Studies New Zealand representative in India) personally visited West Highlander’s office this year to share updated and valuable insights about the institute, including new courses, scholarship options, and admission pathways that benefit Indian students planning to study at AIS.
Let’s take a closer look at how this partnership gives you real, practical benefits every step of your journey.
- Direct Connection with Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS): As the official Auckland Institute of Studies New Zealand representative in India, West Highlander ensures that you are directly connected to AIS without any middle layers. Whether it’s about understanding course requirements or confirming eligibility, your queries reach the right people instantly, saving you time and effort.
- Priority Application Processing: When you apply through West Highlander, your application gets special attention. Being an authorized partner means that your offer letter, admission documents, and updates are processed faster and more efficiently. This ensures that you never miss an intake or a scholarship deadline.
- Accurate & Updated Information: Because of our direct communication with AIS representatives, you receive real-time updates about tuition fees, scholarships, new courses, and upcoming intakes. This means you always make decisions based on verified, latest information, not guesswork or outdated data.
- Personalized Problem-Solving Support: If you face any difficulty during your application or study journey- whether related to faculty, documents, or course details, West Highlander can directly communicate with AIS on your behalf. This personal connection ensures that issues are resolved quickly and professionally.
- Guidance from a Licensed Immigration Adviser: With Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser for New Zealand, leading your case, you benefit from professional expertise and lawful immigration advice. This gives you an edge, especially when it comes to preparing your student visa or dependent visa applications.
- Strong Academic & Career Support: West Highlander’s collaboration with AIS also means you gain access to exclusive information about internships, employability skills, and job pathways. Since AIS has strong ties with New Zealand industries, you’ll be guided toward programs that align with real job opportunities after graduation.
- Continuous Institutional Updates: We regularly receive updates about trending courses, new academic developments, and special events at AIS. This helps our students stay informed and choose programs that are not only relevant but also high in demand in the current job market.
- End-to-End Assistance, From Admission to Graduation: Our partnership doesn’t end once you get your offer letter. West Highlander stays connected throughout your academic journey, right until you graduate. Whether it’s about course progression, academic support, or post-study work visa guidance, we stand beside you at every stage.
- Trusted by Top NZQA Category 1 Institutes: West Highlander proudly partners with most of the NZQA Category 1 institutes like AIS, institutions recognized for their high-quality education and excellent student outcomes. This ensures you are applying to the best possible education providers in New Zealand.
- A One-Stop Solution for All Queries: From selecting your course to applying for your visa, from understanding scholarships to arranging post-study work options, every service you need is available under one roof. You don’t have to run from one agent to another; West Highlander handles everything with care, clarity, and expertise.
Choosing to study at Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) is a smart decision, but choosing to apply through West Highlander Immigration, the official and trusted AIS NZ agent in India, makes that decision even stronger. It means your journey is guided, supported, and safeguarded by professionals who know the system inside out and who genuinely care about your success. Because at West Highlander, we don’t just connect students to institutes; we connect dreams to the right direction.
AIS Trained Counsellors at West Highlander
At West Highlander, every student who applies for the Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) receives guidance from counsellors who are not just experienced, but also closely connected with AIS representatives in New Zealand. As the official AIS NZ agent in India, we maintain regular communication with the institute’s team to ensure that all counselling, course recommendations, and admission guidance are based on the latest and most accurate information. This means when you discuss your study plans with us, you’re not getting generic advice, you’re getting insights that reflect AIS’s real expectations, updated course details, and admission requirements directly from the source. Our Auckland Institute of Studies New Zealand counsellors in India keeps in touch with AIS through meetings, training sessions, and direct discussions about new programs, scholarship updates, and career pathways. This strong connection builds a level of trust that goes beyond just counselling, it ensures your application stands out because it’s guided with precision and genuine understanding. With West Highlander, your future with AIS starts with clarity, confidence, and credible guidance every step of the way.
Intake at AIS New Zealand
At AIS in New Zealand students enjoy flexible start dates through a three-semester system, making it easier for international students to plan their move and study timeline. The main intakes typically commence in February, May, and September, allowing you to pick a start term that suits your schedule and visa process. For example, if you finish your application and visa by early year, you can begin in February; if you need more time to complete prerequisites or arrange funds, the May or September intake gives you breathing space. In addition, for some postgraduate programmes like the MBA or PGDBA, there are even more intake rounds through the year, meaning you have greater flexibility and increased chance to begin your studies in New Zealand. As an Indian student planning to study in New Zealand at AIS, knowing these intake timings helps you align your application, visa and travel arrangements, so that your academic journey starts smoothly and confidently.
Tuition Fee and Cost of Living at AIS, New Zealand
When planning to study in New Zealand at AIS, one of the most important questions Indian students ask is “How much will it cost?” The tuition fees at Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) in New Zealand are designed to offer high-quality education at competitive rates, making it a preferred choice for Indian students planning to study in New Zealand. For business programmes, including the Bachelor of Business, Graduate Diploma in Business, Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, and the Master of Business Administration (MBA), the overall tuition fee ranges between NZD 22,000 and NZD 40,560 per year, depending on the level of study. The Information Technology programmes, which include the Bachelor of Information Technology, Graduate Diploma in IT, Postgraduate Diploma, and Master of Information Technology, generally range from NZD 23,000 to NZD 40,560 per year. Meanwhile, hospitality and service-related programmes such as the New Zealand Diploma in Hospitality Management (Level 5) and Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Hospitality Management) cost around NZD 22,000 to NZD 23,000 per year. These fees include tuition and standard resource charges as per AIS’s official 2025 international fee schedule. Additionally, Indian students should budget approximately NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other daily needs while studying in Auckland. Overall, AIS offers globally recognised education with transparent and affordable fee structures, ensuring great value and a rewarding experience for international students.
Career Support offered by Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS)
At Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS), your classroom learning is just the beginning, because AIS truly believes that education should lead to real opportunities. The Student Support Centre is your go-to place for everything career-related. From helping you write a professional CV and cover letter to giving you mock interview practice and connecting you with employers, the support team makes sure you’re fully job-ready. What’s even better is that AIS connects students to Student Job Search (SJS), a national employment service that helps international students find part-time or casual work while they study in New Zealand. AIS also stands out for its strong focus on internships. Many programs, especially in business, IT, and hospitality, include internships that allow you to gain real-world experience before graduation. These internships are carefully matched with your area of study, helping you apply what you’ve learned and build your professional network in New Zealand. Living and working in Auckland adds another exciting dimension to your journey. The city’s dynamic business scene, thriving tech industry, and multicultural community mean endless opportunities to learn, grow, and earn while you study. At AIS, you don’t just study for a career, you start living it from the very first day.
Real Success Stories from Partnership
Dreams don’t just take flight, they soar when the right people guide you. The powerful partnership between Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) and West Highlander Immigration has helped many students do exactly that. From first counselling sessions to walking across the stage at graduation, countless dreamers have transformed their goals into reality with our expert support and genuine care. Each success story is filled with hope, hard work, and happiness, let’s take a look at some of these inspiring journeys!
Sriram Madhamanchi (Telangana)
Coming from Telangana, Sriram had already built a solid career with five years of experience as a Test Automation Engineer. Yet, his hunger to learn, grow, and stay ahead in the fast-changing world of IT kept pushing him toward something bigger. When he approached West Highlander Immigration, he was full of questions about course levels, institutes, and how to find a program that fit both his passion and future goals. With careful counselling, we helped him find the perfect match at the Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS), where he’s now pursuing his Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology. Today, Sriram is confidently moving closer to his dream of becoming a Software Developer, proving that with the right guidance, dreams don’t just stay dreams, they turn into success stories.
Neetu Jalotra (Jammu)
Neetu Jalotra from Jammu had a clear vision for her future. With an academic and professional background perfectly aligned with Information Technology, her dream was to study the Master of Information Technology at Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS). But when her first visa application got refused, everything seemed uncertain. Many would have given up, thinking a refusal meant the end of their dream. But not Neetu, and not us. When she came to us, our team carefully reviewed every detail of her case, identifying the concerns that needed clarification. We helped her rebuild her application with a stronger SOP, solid justification, and clear supporting documents. With the right guidance and preparation, Neetu’s second application was approved and today, she’s living her dream in New Zealand, proudly studying at AIS. Her next goal? To apply for a Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) and gain valuable IT work experience in New Zealand. Her story is a beautiful reminder that a refusal is not the end, it’s just a redirection toward success, with the right people by your side.
Ayan Arora (Haryana)
Ayan Arora from Haryana had once faced the pain of a New Zealand study visa refusal for the very same course he dreamed of, the Bachelor of Information Technology. It’s not easy to secure a bachelor’s admission abroad right after 12th, especially after a refusal. But with West Highlander’s expert guidance, every concern in his application was carefully rechecked, justified, and strengthened. His determination to learn and our team’s support turned things around. Today, Ayan is proudly studying at AIS, close to completing his course and stepping into a bright IT career ahead.
Jaspreet Kaur (Moga)
Jaspreet Kaur from Moga had an academic background in Arts but worked as a Business Developer, where she discovered her true passion for management. With the right guidance from West Highlander, she confidently applied for the Master of Business Administration at AIS. Her story proves that even if your study and work backgrounds don’t perfectly match, your skills, experience, and ambition can lead you to success.
Future-Focused Collaboration: Building Pathways for Tomorrow
With years of experience and a strong reputation as the top immigration consultant in Chandigarh, West Highlander has proudly guided countless students toward their New Zealand study dreams. Our free counselling, online services, and expert visa support make your journey smooth and stress-free from day one. Under the leadership of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), we bring you trusted, honest, and result-driven guidance that truly changes lives. Together, AIS and West Highlander form a partnership built on care, credibility, and commitment, helping you move confidently toward success in New Zealand. Because when you dream big, we make sure you reach even bigger.