Study abroad
Study in Fiji
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Fiji
Thinking about studying in Fiji? The country is an island nation in the South Pacific, with higher education centred on cities such as Suva, Lautoka and Nadi. Programmes range from bachelor’s degrees to master’s and doctoral study, depending on the institution, and cover fields from engineering and computing to health, business and the arts.
Students interested in tourism, maritime trade and conservation may find the local context especially relevant. English is widely used in teaching, which many international students find helpful. The sections below cover subjects, intakes, costs, funding and student visas so you can plan your next steps.
Why study in Fiji?
What makes Fiji worth considering depends on what you want from your studies. Its location in the South Pacific, the local language and the subjects on offer all shape the experience, alongside your budget and career goals.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Maritime & Shipping and Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Tourism, maritime trade and conservation matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Suva, Lautoka and Nadi each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Fiji means everyday contact with English, Fijian and Fiji Hindi and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
The University of the South Pacific is a regional university owned by twelve Pacific Island countries, with campuses across the region.
Look closely at course content, entry requirements and student support, and think about where you would like the qualification to take you.
Top subjects to study in Fiji
Choosing a subject is the first big decision. For Fiji, the areas below are a sensible place to begin; they reflect local strengths such as tourism, maritime trade and conservation, not a league table.
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Maritime & Shipping
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Links to tourism, maritime trade and conservation mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Fiji on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Scholarships to Study in Fiji
Funding your studies in Fiji
Finding funding for Fiji takes time, so start looking as soon as you have a shortlist of courses.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Fiji
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Fiji
Many programmes in Fiji start around February, which is the main entry point for most new students. Some institutions also admit students around July, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Fiji
Before you commit to a course in Fiji, work out the full cost of the programme, not just the first year’s tuition.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Fiji
Whether you need a visa to study in Fiji depends mainly on your nationality and the length of your programme.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Fiji in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Fiji
Living costs in Fiji depend a great deal on where you live and how you live. Costs in Suva can differ noticeably from those in Lautoka or Nadi and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Fiji
Is Fiji a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. Fiji offers programmes across many subjects, a location in the South Pacific and study in English, Fijian and Fiji Hindi. Students interested in tourism, maritime trade and conservation may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Fiji?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Maritime & Shipping, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies. The subjects page for Fiji lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When should I apply to universities in Fiji?
Many programmes start around February. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Fiji?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Fiji?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Fiji.
Are scholarships available for international students in Fiji?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Where do international students live in Fiji?
Suva, Lautoka and Nadi are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
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