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)
|
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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.