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NZ vs Canada Study 2025 Comparison

New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Compare Top Colleges, Cost of Studying, Student Visa, and Career Scope

Vaishali Pandey
Updated On:
Apr 29, 2025

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Choosing between New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students is crucial, as both countries offer top-tier education, diverse cultures, and promising career opportunities. With over 4,27,000 Indian students enrolled in Canadian institutions as of 2024 and New Zealand witnessing a 26% surge in international student enrollments in the past year, the competition between these destinations is fiercer than ever.

This article compares cost, top universities, visa rules, and career prospects. Keep reading to make an informed choice!

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • Which country offers a more affordable study and living experience?
  • The differences in visa policies, work permits, and PR options.
  • Which destination aligns better with your career goals and long-term plans?

New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Key Highlights

The table below highlights key differences between Canada and New Zealand for Indian students, including education costs, visa policies, post-study work opportunities, and career prospects. 

Compare both destinations to make an informed choice!

Parameters

Canada

New Zealand

Total International Students

10,28,850

1,20,000

Intakes

Fall & Spring 

July & February

Total Indian Students as of 2024

4,27,000 

2,664

Average 1st Year Tuition Fee

INR 26.45 L

INR 19.85 L

Top Universities

  • McGill University
  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia
  • University of Alberta
  • University of Montreal
  • McMaster University
  • University of Waterloo
  • The University of Auckland
  • University of Otago
  • Victoria University of Wellington
  • University of Canterbury
  • Massey University
  • University of Waikato
  • Auckland University of Technology

Average Cost of Living Per Year

INR 12.33 Lakhs to INR 18.50 Lakhs

INR 25.33 to INR 30.39 Lakhs

Student Visa Processing Time

6 weeks

30 weekdays

Part-Time Working Hours

20 hours a week

20 hours a week

Popular Companies Headquarters

  • Tim Hortons
  • Royal Bank of Canada
  • Scotiabank
  • Magna International Inc.
  • Manulife Financial
  • Pacific Edge
  • McDonald's New Zealand
  • Pumpkin Patch
  • Sky Network Television
  • State Insurance

New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Top Courses 

Both countries offer globally recognised programs with excellent career prospects. Understanding the most in-demand courses can help you decide about your future studies and job opportunities.

Here’s a comparison of the most popular courses for Indian students in Canada and New Zealand.

Category

Top Courses in Canada

Top Courses in New Zealand

Business & Management

MBA, Finance, Marketing, International Business

Business Studies, Management, Finance, Marketing

Engineering & Technology

Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software Engineering

Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Environmental Engineering

Healthcare & Life Sciences

Nursing, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Public Health

Nursing, Biotechnology, Food Science, Healthcare

Information Technology (IT)

Computer Science, AI & Data Science, Cybersecurity

IT & Computing, AI & Machine Learning, Software Development

Hospitality & Tourism

Hotel Management, Event Planning, Culinary Arts

Tourism & Hotel Management, Hospitality Management

Media & Creative Arts

Journalism, Film Studies, Digital Marketing

Visual Communications, Animation, Graphic Design

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New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Top Universities

Canada and New Zealand have globally recognised institutions that offer excellent academic programs, research opportunities, and strong career prospects.

The table below highlights some of the top Universities in Canada and New Zealand, along with their QS Rankings for 2025. 

Universities in Canada

World QS Rank 2025

Universities in New Zealand

World QS Rank 2025

University of Toronto

25

University of Auckland

65

McGill University

29

University of Otago

214

University of British Columbia

38

Massey University

239

University of Alberta

96

Victoria University of Wellington

244

University of Waterloo

115

University of Waikato

235

Western University

120

University of Canterbury

261

Universite de Montreal

159

Lincoln University

371

University of Calgary

198

Auckland University of Technology

412

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New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Admission Criteria

When planning to study abroad, it is essential to understand the admission criteria for New Zealand and Canada. Both countries have a reputation for offering quality education, but their entry requirements vary based on universities, courses, and visa regulations. 

Below is a detailed breakdown of admission requirements in New Zealand and Canada.

Admission Criteria for Indian Students in Canada

The table below provides a clear breakdown of admission requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Canada.

Requirement

Undergraduate (UG)

Postgraduate (PG)

Academic Qualification

Completion of 12 years of schooling

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Standardised Exams

SAT (varies by university)

GMAT for management courses, GRE for engineering courses

Duration of Study

4 years for a degree, 2-3 years for a diploma

1-2 years, depending on the program

Language Proficiency

TOEFL / IELTS (required for visa and admission)

TOEFL / IELTS (some colleges may waive for Indian students, but required for visa)

Visa Requirement

Proof of English proficiency is essential

Lack of English proficiency may affect visa approval

Admission Flexibility

Colleges list average accepted scores, no fixed cutoffs

Vocational courses have relaxed admission criteria

Admission Criteria for Indian Students in New Zealand

New Zealand’s higher education system follows a 10-level structure, where Level 1 represents a basic certificate and Level 10 corresponds to a PhD.

The table below provides a clear breakdown of admission requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in New Zealand.

Requirement

Undergraduate (UG)

Postgraduate (PG)

Education Qualification

Completion of Class 12 with minimum 60% (Diplomas accept below 60%)

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0

Qualification Levels

Level 1-4 (Certificates)

Level 5-7 (Diplomas, Graduate Diplomas, Bachelor’s)

Level 8-10 (PG Diplomas, Master’s, Ph.D.)

English Proficiency

IELTS: 6.0 (no band <5.5), TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 50+

IELTS: 6.5 (no band <6.0), TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 58+

Alternative Pathways

Foundation programs available for students with below 60% in Class 12

Pre-Master’s programs for students needing academic upgrades

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New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Cost of Undergraduate Education

Pursuing an undergraduate degree abroad is a major financial decision for Indian students. Canada is known for its affordable education and numerous scholarships, while New Zealand offers lower tuition costs compared to many Western countries.

Here’s a breakdown of UG tuition fees in both countries.

Particulars

Undergraduate courses in Canada

Undergraduate courses in New Zealand

Average Tuition Fee

BSc: INR 20.00 Lakhs

BTech: INR 28.91 Lakhs

BBA: INR 19.00 Lakhs

BSc: INR 12.37 Lakhs

BTech: INR 20.48 Lakhs

BBA: INR 9.11 Lakhs

Average Living Expense Per Year

INR 12.33 Lakhs to INR 18.50 Lakhs

INR 25.33 to INR 30.39 Lakhs

Duration

3-4 Years

3-4 Years

Exams Accepted

IELTS, TOEFL

IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DET

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New Zealand vs Canada for Masters in 2025

Pursuing a master’s degree abroad is a life-changing decision for Indian students. New Zealand and Canada are among the top choices due to their advanced education system, post-study work opportunities, and high employability rates. 

To help you decide between these two destinations, let's compare key factors like average tuition fees, living expenses, and exams.

Particulars

Masters courses in Canada

PG courses in New Zealand

Average Tuition Fee

MA: INR 9.50 Lakhs

MS: INR 11.28 Lakhs

MBA: INR 25.89 Lakhs

MA: INR 15.81 Lakhs

MS: INR 12.56 Lakhs

MBA: INR 27.07 Lakhs

Average Living Expense Per Year

INR 12.33 Lakhs to INR 18.50 Lakhs

INR 25.33 to INR 30.39 Lakhs

Duration

1.5-2 Years

1-2 Years

Exams Accepted

IELTS, TOEFL

IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DET

Thinking about an MBA abroad? New Zealand offers top-ranked colleges, affordable fees, and great career prospects for Indian students. Discover the best MBA programs, eligibility, and costs in our detailed blog on MBA in New Zealand for Indian Students.

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New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Cost of Living

Expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare, and other daily necessities vary between New Zealand and Canada. Understanding these costs can help you make an informed decision based on your budget and financial plans.

The table below shows a breakdown of Canada vs New Zealand living costs.

Expenses

Annual Cost in Canada (in CAD)

Annual Cost in New Zealand (in NZD)

Campus Accommodation

CAD 3,000-7,500 (INR 1.82 - 4.5 lakhs)

NZD 8,000-22,800 (INR 3.98 - 11.3 lakhs)

Private Accommodation

CAD 8,000-9,000 (INR 4.8 - 5.5 lakhs)

NZD 18,000-38,000 (INR 8.96 - 18.9 lakhs)

Food

CAD 4,800 (INR 2.9 lakhs)

NZD 3,800-5,800 (INR 1.89 - 2.89 lakhs)

Utility bills

CAD 800 (INR 48591)

NZD 1,100 (INR 54780)

Phone & Internet

CAD 600 (INR 36443)

NZD 850 (INR 42330)

Public Transport

CAD 960-1,320 (INR 58K - 80K)

NZD 1,500-1,700 (INR 74701)

Entertainment

CAD 1,800 (INR 1.09 lakhs)

NZD 2,600 (INR 1.29 lakhs)

Health insurance

CAD 600-800 (INR 36443 - 48591)

NZD 200-700 (INR 9960 - 34860)

Textbooks

CAD 800-1,200 (INR 48591 - 72887)

NZD 600-1,000 (INR 29880 - 49800)

Clothing and Personal Care

CAD 1,200-1,500 (72887 - 91109)

NZD 1,000-1,300 (INR 49800 - 64741)

Wondering how much it costs to live in New Zealand as a student? From accommodation to daily expenses, get a full breakdown of the Cost of Living in New Zealand for Indian Students in 2025 and plan your budget wisely! 

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New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Student Visa Requirements

Canada and New Zealand have streamlined visa processes, but their eligibility requirements, financial proof, and work regulations differ significantly. 

The table below shows the key visa requirements for each destination.

Category

Canada Student Visa

New Zealand Student Visa

Visa Processing Time

8 weeks (if eligible under new rules)

8 to 12 weeks

Application Fee

CAD 150 (INR 9,000 approx.)

NZD 350 (INR 17,000 approx.)

Work While Studying

20 hours/week (40 hours during breaks)

20 hours/week (40 hours during breaks)

Post-Study Work Permit

Apply within 90 days after graduation

Post-study work visa valid for up to 12 months

Medical Test Requirement

Mandatory for Indian applicants

Not always mandatory

Spouse Work Rights

The spouse can work full-time if the student stays for 1+ year

The spouse can work full-time on a Work Visa

Dependent Visa

Allowed; dependents can remain for the same duration

Dependents get a visitor visa but cannot work

New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Post-Study Work Visa Requirements

A post-study work visa is crucial when choosing between Canada and New Zealand for higher education. It determines how long you can stay and work in the country after graduation, impacting your career prospects and chances of permanent residency.

Below is a detailed comparison of both countries' post-study work visa options.

Criteria

Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa

Eligibility

Must graduate from a recognised post-secondary institution

Must graduate from an approved NZ institution

Duration

Up to 3 years (depending on course length)

1 to 3 years (varies based on qualification)

Work Rights

Can work in any field or industry

Can work for any employer initially

Extension Possibility

Not extendable

Can be extended for 2 years with a relevant job

Job Requirement for PR

Not required for PR pathways

A relevant job may improve PR chances

Part-Time Job Roles in New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025

Working part-time while studying is crucial for international students to manage expenses and gain work experience. Both Canada and New Zealand offer ample opportunities across various sectors. 

Below is a comparison of the most popular part-time job sectors in both countries.

Category

Popular Jobs in Canada

Popular Jobs in New Zealand

Healthcare

Nurse Practitioners, Pharmacists

Aged Care Workers, Medical Assistants

Education

Teaching Assistants, Tutors

Primary & Secondary School Teachers

Finance & Business

Financial Managers, Accountants

Business Analysts, Financial Advisors

IT & Engineering

Software Developers, Program Analysts, Construction Managers

ICT Support, Civil Engineers, Electronics Technicians

Hospitality & Tourism

Hotel Staff, Restaurant Workers, Event Coordinators

Tourism Guides, Hotel Receptionists, Café Attendants

New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Permanent Residency (PR) Criteria

After completing their studies, international students often aim to secure a Permanent Residency (PR). Canada and New Zealand offer PR pathways, but the eligibility criteria, processing time, and benefits differ. 

Below is a comparison of PR options for international students in Canada and New Zealand.

Category

Canada PR (Express Entry & CEC)

New Zealand PR (Skilled Migrant Category & Work to Residence)

Eligibility

Apply under Canadian Experience Class (CEC) after gaining work experience on a Post-Graduation Work Permit

Secure a job in a skill-shortage sector with relevant qualifications & experience

PR Processing Time

6–12 months (Express Entry)

6–9 months (Skilled Migrant Category Visa)

Job Offer Requirement

It is not mandatory for Express Entry but required for some PNP streams

Mandatory for most PR pathways

Shortage Occupations

IT, Healthcare, Engineering, Finance, Skilled Trades

Engineering, Healthcare, IT, Agriculture, Construction

PR Benefits

Access to universal healthcare, free education for children, social security, and a pathway to citizenship.

Free healthcare, social security benefits, education support, and a pathway to citizenship.

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New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025: Career Scope and Salary Prospects

Canada and New Zealand offer strong job markets, but industry differences, demand for skilled workers, and salary levels can impact career growth. 

The table below highlights the top job opportunities and salary prospects for graduates in Canada and New Zealand.

Leading Jobs in Canada

Average Salary in Canada (INR)

Leading Jobs in New Zealand

Average Annual Salary in New Zealand (INR)

Surgeon

2.29 Cr.

Software Engineering

36.9 lakhs

Engineering Managers

86.72 lakhs

Civil Engineer

35.7 lakhs

Financial Analyst

95.04 lakhs

Medical Doctor

82.2 lakhs

Chartered Accountant

61.79 lakhs

Physiotherapist

29.03 lakhs

Architect

87.34 lakhs

Nurse

35.8 lakhs

Civil Engineer

65.95 lakhs

Investment Banker

39.37 lakhs

Pharmacist

89.72 lakhs

Finance Analyst

33.25 lakhs

Note: Salaries vary by location, experience, and job role. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Auckland offer higher salaries but also have higher living costs.

Scholarships in New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students 2025

Securing a scholarship can significantly reduce tuition fees and living costs for Indian students looking to study in Canada or New Zealand. Both countries offer merit-based, need-based, and government-funded scholarships to attract international students. 

Below is a table highlighting some popular scholarship options in Canada and New Zealand.

Scholarships in Canada

Scholarships in New Zealand

  • Gold Standard Scholarship
  • Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
  • International Major Entrance Scholarships
  • Vantage One Excellence Award
  • Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
  • Hatch Scholarships
  • New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarship (NZIDRS)
  • New Zealand Excellence Awards
  • University of Canterbury's College of Engineering Scholarship
  • New Zealand International Undergraduate Fees Scholarship
  • New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship
  • BayerBoost Environmental Scholarship Scheme

Deciding between New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students in 2025 depends on what matters most to you. Canada offers globally recognised universities, strong job opportunities, and a straightforward PR pathway. On the other hand, New Zealand provides a high-quality education system, a relaxed lifestyle, and promising career prospects. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your budget, career aspirations, and preferred lifestyle. 

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FAQs About New Zealand vs Canada for Indian Students

New Zealand vs Canada, which is better?

When considering factors like cost of living, quality of education, and post-study work opportunities, many Indian students wonder which is better: New Zealand or Canada? Both countries offer excellent education systems, but the choice often depends on individual preferences and career goals.

What are the top colleges in New Zealand vs Canada for Indian students?

Institutions like the University of Auckland and Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand are popular among Indian students. Universities such as the University of Toronto and McGill University are highly regarded in Canada. When comparing New Zealand vs Canada for a master’s degree, both countries have strong academic offerings.

What is the cost of studying in New Zealand compared to Canada?

The cost of studying in New Zealand is generally lower than in Canada. Tuition fees in New Zealand range from NZD 22,000 to NZD 32,000 per year, while in Canada, they can range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000, depending on the program and institution.

How does the student visa process differ between New Zealand and Canada?

The student visa process in New Zealand is relatively straightforward, requiring proof of enrollment and financial stability. In Canada, the process can be more complex, often requiring a study permit and additional documentation.

What are the career prospects for Indian students in New Zealand and Canada?

Both countries offer good career prospects for international students. Canada has a more extensive job market, especially in technology and engineering, while New Zealand is known for its demand in healthcare and agriculture sectors.

Are there any disadvantages of studying in New Zealand for Indian students?

Some disadvantages of studying in New Zealand for Indian students include a smaller job market than in Canada and potential cultural adjustment challenges. However, many students find the experience rewarding.

Is it easier to get a job after studying in New Zealand or Canada?

Generally, it may be easier to secure a job in Canada due to its larger economy and diverse job market. However, New Zealand also offers post-study work visas that allow graduates to gain local work experience.

What are the living expenses like in New Zealand vs Canada for Indian students?

Living expenses in New Zealand can range from NZD 15,000 to NZD 20,000 per year, while in Canada, they can be higher, averaging CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 annually, depending on the city.

Which country has a better quality of life for international students?

Both New Zealand and Canada are known for their high quality of life. However, Canada often ranks higher in healthcare, safety, and multiculturalism, making it a favorable choice for many international students.

How do the cultural experiences differ for Indian students in New Zealand and Canada?

In Canada, Indian students may find a larger Indian community and more cultural events, while New Zealand offers a unique blend of Māori and Western cultures, providing a different experience.

What scholarship opportunities are available for Indian students in New Zealand and Canada?

Both countries offer various scholarships for international students. New Zealand has the New Zealand International Scholarships, while Canada provides scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.

How does the climate in New Zealand compare to Canada for Indian students?

New Zealand has a milder climate, while Canada experiences colder winters. Indian students should consider their adaptability to different weather conditions when choosing between the two countries.

What are the language requirements for studying in New Zealand and Canada?

Both countries primarily use English as the medium of instruction. For admission, Indian students may need proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Is New Zealand better than Canada for pursuing a specific field of study?

Depending on the field, one country may be better suited than the other. For example, Canada is often preferred for engineering and technology, while New Zealand is known for its strong programs in environmental science and agriculture.

What are the long-term residency options for Indian students after studying in New Zealand and Canada?

Canada offers various pathways to permanent residency for international graduates, making it an attractive option. New Zealand also provides residency options, but the criteria can be more stringent.

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