New Zealand has become one of the most loved countries for international education. Every year thousands of students from India and other parts of the world choose to study in New Zealand because of its safe environment, world-class teaching, and career opportunities. The country is known for having some of the best institutes that provide practical learning, globally recognised qualifications, and support for international students. In this blog, we are going to talk about one such institute in Auckland that has made a big name among Indian students- ICL Graduate Business School. But before we go into details, let me tell you, this guide is written under the supervision of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), so you can trust the information shared here. We will cover everything from the courses offered, fees, entry requirements, student life in Auckland, visa process, and even job opportunities after study. Keep reading till the end to discover why ICL can be the right choice for you.
About ICL Graduate Business School
ICL Graduate Business School is a well-known private institute based right in the centre of Auckland, New Zealand. It was first started in 2002 and has grown into a trusted place for international education. The school offers a wide range of programmes in Business, Business Informatics, and Early Childhood Education, from diplomas to postgraduate and master’s degrees. ICL is ranked as an NZQA Category 1 provider, which is the highest quality rating given by New Zealand Qualifications Authority. This means the teaching, student support, and overall learning experience at ICL meet the best standards. The school welcomes students from more than 80 different countries, making the campus environment truly diverse and friendly. For Indian students, this multicultural setting is an extra advantage because it helps them feel comfortable and connected while they study in New Zealand.
One of the biggest strengths of ICL Graduate Business School is its strong academic pathways. ICL has agreements with leading New Zealand universities such as Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Massey University, and Victoria University of Wellington. This means students can start their studies at ICL and later transfer to these universities with recognised credits. The school also focuses on small class sizes, so every student gets more personal attention from teachers. Along with quality education, ICL provides student services such as English language support, career advice, and guidance on adjusting to life in Auckland. For Indian students looking for a practical and supportive place to begin their journey in New Zealand, ICL is a very good choice.
Top Programs offered at ICL
Master of Business Informatics (MBI)
The Master of Business Informatics is one of the most popular programmes at ICL Graduate Business School. It combines two important fields: business and information technology. In this course, students study subjects like enterprise innovation, digital transformation, information security, IT service management, and project management. There is also a big applied project, where students get the chance to work on a real business problem and use both their business and IT knowledge to find solutions. The strength of this programme is that it prepares you for jobs where companies want people who can understand technology as well as business strategies. It is very suitable for students who are interested in careers such as business analyst, IT project manager, or digital transformation specialist. If you enjoy technology but also want to make business decisions and guide companies to use technology better, then the Master of Business Informatics is the right choice for you. It’s also perfect for students who want to stand out in today’s world where every business is becoming digital.
Master of Business Informatics by Thesis
This programme is designed for students who want to take a more academic and research-oriented path. Instead of completing an applied project like in the regular Master of Business Informatics, students in this course focus on writing a thesis. A thesis means you pick one topic in business informatics and study it very deeply. For example, you may research how companies can protect information, how businesses can use new technology to improve, or how project management tools affect success. You will spend time reading, writing, analysing data, and presenting your findings in a detailed academic report. This programme is best for students who enjoy research, independent study, and creating new ideas. It is also very useful if you plan to go further into academia, like doing a PhD, or if you want to work in roles where strong research and analysis skills are required. For Indian students who are patient, detail-oriented, and like investigating new solutions, this programme gives a special opportunity to grow into an expert in the field.
Master of Management
The Master of Management is a course for students who want to grow into leaders. In this programme, you study how organisations work, how to lead teams, how to manage changes, and how to think strategically about the future of a business. Topics include global business, economics, leadership and culture, Maori business leadership, and project management. The programme also includes an applied project, where you solve real management problems. This course is a perfect match for students who dream of becoming managers, directors, or senior leaders in companies. It is especially good for those who want to focus less on technology and more on people and organisations. For Indian students, this is a very attractive course because management skills are always in demand in both New Zealand and India. If you are someone who likes to motivate others, enjoys planning and organising, and wants to take responsibility for important decisions in a company, then the Master of Management is a very good option for you. It opens doors to leadership roles in many industries.
Postgraduate Diploma in Business Informatics
This programme is for students who want to gain advanced knowledge of how business and IT work together but in a shorter timeframe than a Master’s. In the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Informatics, you learn about digital transformation, enterprise systems, project management, business professionalism, and information security. The focus is to give you strong skills to manage and use technology in the business world. Many students use this diploma as a stepping stone to a Master’s degree, while others use it to improve their career prospects without doing a full Master’s. This course is best for students who already have some background in business or IT and now want to combine the two fields. For Indian students, it is especially useful because companies in India and abroad want employees who can understand both technology and management. If you are someone who wants to quickly upgrade your skills and make your profile stronger for jobs in IT and business, this diploma is the right choice.
Postgraduate Diploma in Business
The Postgraduate Diploma in Business is a programme that gives you a wide and strong knowledge of different areas of business. Students study marketing, accounting, leadership and change, economics, global business, and project management. It is designed to make you think like a manager and prepare you for leadership roles. This programme is good for students who want to improve their overall business skills but may not be ready for or interested in doing a Master’s. It is also useful for students who already studied something else before but now want to switch to a business career. The course is flexible because it gives you a broad knowledge base, so you can later decide to specialise in one area. For Indian students, this programme is great if you want to build strong business knowledge that can be applied in New Zealand as well as back in India. If you like solving problems, planning strategies, and learning how different parts of a business connect, then this diploma will be very helpful for you.
Graduate Diploma in Business (International Business Innovation)
This is a very exciting programme that focuses on innovation and international business. In this diploma, you study how companies create new ideas, how they bring products into international markets, and how they manage global competition. You also study subjects like digital marketing, communication technologies, ethics in business, and business strategy. The aim of this course is to prepare students for jobs in companies that are creative, forward-looking, and operate internationally. It is best for students who are interested in working in export companies, multinational corporations, or startups that want to expand globally. This diploma is also a great choice for students who studied something different before and now want to move into business and international trade. For Indian students, it is especially attractive because India is growing fast in the global market, and skills in international business are highly valued. If you are someone who likes fresh ideas, wants to work across borders, and enjoys thinking about global trends, this programme is made for you.
Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) is for students who want to become teachers of young children, usually from birth to six years. This programme teaches you about child development, learning theories, cultural diversity, Māori and Pacific perspectives, and ethics in education. A very important part of this course is the practicum, where you go to real early childhood centres and work with children under the guidance of experienced teachers. This hands-on practice helps you gain real confidence and skills. The programme is best for students who are passionate about working with children, enjoy helping them learn and grow, and want to play an important role in shaping their early years. For Indian students, this diploma is a great chance to get into New Zealand’s respected education system, where early childhood education is given a lot of importance. If you are patient, caring, and creative, and you want a career where you can make a difference in children’s lives, then this programme is perfect for you.
New Zealand Diploma in Business (Leadership and Management)
This diploma is designed for students who want to learn the basics of business along with leadership skills. You study areas like business communication, business environment, operations, project management, and leadership. The programme is very practical and prepares you for entry-level jobs in business or for moving up into management roles over time. It is especially useful for students who may not have studied business before but now want to build a strong foundation. The focus on leadership and management helps you develop confidence in leading teams, planning projects, and making decisions. For Indian students, this programme is a good option if you want to quickly enter the business world, either in New Zealand or back home, with skills that employers always look for. It also serves as a strong starting point if you later want to continue into higher qualifications like postgraduate diplomas or Master’s degrees. If you are practical, motivated, and eager to learn how businesses work day-to-day, this diploma is a great choice.
Entry Requirements for Indian Students
If you are an Indian student planning to study at ICL Graduate Business School in New Zealand, there are some basic requirements you need to meet. Here are the general ones:
- Academic Background: You must have the right level of education for the course you apply to. For diplomas, you usually need to finish Class 12 with good marks. For postgraduate and master’s level programmes, you normally need a bachelor’s degree in a related subject.
- English Language Skills: Since classes are in English, you need to show proof of English ability. Most students use IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. A common requirement is an IELTS overall 6.0–6.5, but the score can change depending on the course.
- Valid Passport: You need a valid passport to apply to the college and later for your New Zealand study visa. Make sure your passport is up to date for the length of your course.
- Supporting Documents: You must submit your academic transcripts, certificates, English test results, CV (for higher courses), and sometimes a statement of purpose.
- Genuine Student Requirement: You must show that you are a genuine student, ready to study full-time and follow New Zealand student visa rules.
Fees and Cost of Living
The cost of studying at ICL Graduate Business School in New Zealand depends on the course you choose, but students can expect tuition fees to be between NZD 22,000 and NZD 37,500 per year. Higher-level programmes like the Master of Management and Master of Business Informatics are usually at the higher end of this range, while diploma or graduate diploma courses are slightly lower. In addition to tuition, students also need to pay extra charges such as an enrolment fee and course material fees, which may add a few thousand dollars more each year. Apart from study costs, Indian students should also plan for living expenses in Auckland, which are around NZD 20,000 per year. This amount covers accommodation, food, utilities, transport, internet, and personal needs. Altogether, the total yearly budget for tuition and living can come to around NZD 40,000 to NZD 60,000. Careful planning helps students manage these costs while they study in New Zealand.
Student Life in Auckland
Studying in Auckland gives international students, especially those from India, a chance to enjoy both education and lifestyle together. Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city and is full of energy, culture, and opportunities. Students can explore modern shopping centres, local food outlets, and lively markets while also enjoying peaceful beaches, parks, and hiking trails nearby. The city is very multicultural, so Indian students will easily find communities, restaurants, and events that feel like home. Public transport is well connected, making it simple to move around for classes, part-time jobs, or leisure. With its safe environment, friendly people, and mix of urban life and natural beauty, Auckland offers students a balanced and exciting study abroad experience.
Part-time and Post-study Work Opportunities
One of the main benefits of studying in New Zealand is the chance to work while you study. As an international student at ICL, you can usually work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during holidays. This helps you cover some living costs and also gives you useful work experience in a new country. Many students find jobs in cafes, restaurants, retail stores, or as tutors, which improve their communication and teamwork skills. After finishing your course, you may be able to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, which allows you to stay in New Zealand and work full-time. The length of this visa depends on your qualification. Graduates in areas like business, IT, and management often find good opportunities in Auckland and other cities. This pathway is helpful for Indian students who want to build an international career and gain global work experience after completing their studies.
How to apply for New Zealand Study Visa?
Getting a New Zealand study visa is an important step for Indian students who wish to study at ICL Graduate Business School. Here is a simple step-by-step process to guide you:
- Choose Your Course and Institute: First, decide which programme you want to study at ICL and get an official offer of place from the institute. This document is needed for your visa application.
- Prepare Financial Proof: You must show that you can pay your tuition fees and also have enough funds to cover living costs (about NZD 20,000 per year). This can be in the form of bank statements, fixed deposits, or a loan approval letter.
- Arrange Supporting Documents: Collect important papers like a valid passport, academic transcripts, English test results (if needed), medical insurance proof, and a police clearance certificate.
- Fill Out the Visa Application: Apply online through the official Immigration New Zealand website. Complete the form carefully and attach all documents.
- Pay the Application Fee: Submit the required visa application fee online at the time of applying.
- Wait for a Decision: Immigration officers will check your application and may ask for extra documents or information. If approved, you will receive your New Zealand study visa to begin your journey.
West Highlander Immigration
Applying to study in New Zealand can feel confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. At West Highlander Immigration, we guide students step by step with the right advice about courses, colleges, and visa applications. Being the top immigration consultant in Chandigarh, we have years of experience helping Indian students achieve their study abroad dreams. What makes us different is that 93% of our clients use our online services to consult with us, not only from Punjab but also from other parts of India and South Asia, including states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Wherever you are, you can consult us online and get expert, genuine, and updated guidance for your New Zealand study visa journey.