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Canada vs New Zealand: Which is Better for Indian Students?
Deciding between Canada and New Zealand to study abroad is a challenging decision, as both destinations are popular amongst international students. To understand the differences between Canada vs New Zealand, it is important to understand the educational systems, popular courses, tuition costs, financial aid options, entry requirements, and more. Both countries offer high-quality education and numerous course options for international students. One major difference between Canada and New Zealand is the intake of international students. Canada has three intakes each year—September, January, and December—while New Zealand typically has two main intakes in January and June. Plus, some universities in both Canada and New Zealand rank among the top 100 in the world according to QS WUR 2025. When it comes to job prospects, the highest-paying positions in both countries are often found in fields like business, engineering, computer science, and medicine. Read the detailed comparison of Canada and New Zealand for international students in the article below.
This Story also Contains
- Canada vs New Zealand for International Students: Highlights
- Latest Updates on Immigration Policies of Canada and New Zealand
- Canada vs New Zealand Intakes
- Canada vs New Zealand Top Universities
- Popular Courses in Canada vs New Zealand for Indian Students
- Admission Requirements to Study in Canada vs New Zealand
- Cost of Studying in Canada vs New Zealand
- Cost of Living in Canada vs New Zealand
- Student Visa Requirements for Canada vs New Zealand
- Jobs in Demand in Canada and New Zealand for Indian Students
Canada vs New Zealand for International Students: Highlights
Particulars | Canada | New Zealand |
Cost of Living | CAD 1,650 to 3,050/month | EUR 1,750 to 3,100/month |
Top Universities |
|
|
Language of Instruction | English | English |
Average Tuition Fees | CAD 13,000 to 40,000 | EUR 6,000 to 20,000 |
Courses Offered |
|
|
Latest Updates on Immigration Policies of Canada and New Zealand
New Zealand has revised its post study work visa policies offering more opportunities for international students. Now, students who have completed a 30-week postgraduate diploma (PGDip) and transitioned immediately to a Master’s degree can now apply for a PSWV.
On the other hand, Canada has imposed restrictive immigration policies on international students intending to reduce the number of student visas in the country. It was around 35% in 2024 and is estimated to be further reduced by 10% due to major changes in the PR options after studying in the country.
These cons of Canada's restrictive policies towards immigrants and cap on international students have made it a less attractive destination for international students. New Zealand has made it easier for international students to apply for a PSW visa. It will make it a favourable destination among international students and especially for those looking for an alternative to Canada.
Also Read:
Canada vs New Zealand Intakes
To be considered for admission to universities in Canada or New Zealand, students are required to apply before the application deadlines and during the admission cycle. The difference between Canada and New Zealand is that Canada offers three main intakes, whereas New Zealand offers two main intakes.
Intakes in Canada
Intakes | Duration | Deadlines |
Winter | January to May | September - November |
Spring | May to August | January - February |
Fall | September to February | December - March |
Intakes in New Zealand
Type of Semester | Admission Timeline | Application Deadlines |
Semester 1 | February to June | January to February |
Semester 2 | July to November | June to July |
Rolling Intakes | Any time of the year | No such deadlines |
Canada vs New Zealand Top Universities
Majorly, Canada vs New Zealand education differs based on universities and their overall rankings in the world. Both countries are renowned for offering the best universities for international students. Here, the top universities in both countries, along with their QS rankings for 2026 are mentioned for analysis.
Top Universities in New Zealand
These are the best universities in New Zealand as per the QS World University Rankings 2026:
Top Universities in New Zealand for International Students
University | QS Rankings 2026 |
65 | |
University of Otago | =197 |
=281 | |
=230 | |
Victoria University of Wellington | =240 |
261 | |
Lincoln University | 407 |
=410 |
Top 10 Universities in Canada
Here are the top 10 universities in Canada according to the rankings given by THE 2026 and QS 2026:
Best Universities in Canada
University | THE World 2026 Rank | QS World 2026 Rank |
21 | 29 | |
=41 | 21 | |
45 | 40 | |
119 | =94 | |
=187 | =119 | |
201-250 | 151 | |
150 | 168 | |
200 | 211 | |
=116 | =173 | |
=187 | =219 |
Popular Courses in Canada vs New Zealand for Indian Students
Demanding courses in Canada vs New Zealand for international students differ based on their popularity and economic needs. Some of the most enrolled courses in Canada and New Zealand are given below for international students to choose the academic field as per their career aspirations.
Popular courses in Canada
Students looking for studies in Canada can explore some of the below given study options to pursue their higher education.
Computer science
Engineering
Business
Health Sciences
Physiotherapy
Information technology
Animation and gaming courses in Canada
High-demand courses in New Zealand
A few of the popular fields are Business, Engineering, Science, and Technology in New Zealand. Aspirants looking for studies in New Zealand can explore the options below for world-class yet affordable education.
Accounting
Health Care
Information Technology
MBA
Education
Artificial Intelligence
MS
Admission Requirements to Study in Canada vs New Zealand
Meeting the requirements of universities in Canada or New Zealand is important to be considered for the courses there. Although the eligibility criterion varies as per the location, course, and university, a list of common requirements to study in Canada vs New Zealand is provided.
Eligibility for New Zealand Universities from India
Eligibility For Bachelor in New Zealand
Students must be at least 13 years of age to apply
They must have graduated from high school and hold a high school passing certificate.
High school GPA must be equivalent to or above 50% to 60%.
They must demonstrate English command via IELTS/TOEFL//DET/PTE
Eligibility For Masters in New Zealand
Students must hold a 3-4 years bachelors with a minimum of 50 to 60% score.
There may be a requirement for GMAT/GRE for management courses.
English proficiency is a must for admission to courses.
UCAT ANZ is required for medical studies.
There may be a requirement for work experience or internships.
Eligibility for courses in Canada for international students
To secure admission in Canadian universities, international students are required to comply with the following requirements:
Eligibility For Bachelors in Canada
Students must ideally have at least 70% in 12th grade.
They must have English proficiency at a certain level varying by university.
There may be a need for the SAT or ACT as per the course selected.
Eligibility For Masters in Canada
Students must have a bachelor's degree of at least 4 years with an average 70% GPA.
GMAT with a minimum score of 580-600 is required
Requirement of 1 to 3 years of work experience as per the university.
English proficiency in IELTS or TOEFL is required. They must also achieve at least an overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum band of 6 in each section in IELTS or its equivalent.
Some Canadian universities ask for portfolios, written samples, theses, previous copies of published work, etc.
They may be required to submit some additional documents such as admission essays, LORs, resumes, SOPs, etc.
Eligibility For MBA in Canada:
Students must have a 3-4 years bachelors in any discipline from a recognised university.
Minimum IELTS or TOEFL scores vary as per the university.
To be a part of a top business school in Canada, students must ideally score between 500 to 700 out of 800 on GMAT.
They must have relevant work experience of 3-5 years in the related field with a minimum of 12 months of experience.
The study gap is also acceptable under some circumstances.
Cost of Studying in Canada vs New Zealand
International students must be aware of the study costs in either of the countries Canada vs New Zealand, to budget accordingly. Tuition fees are considered to be an influential decision in choosing between Canada vs New Zealand education. Canada is more costly than New Zealand; however, around 30 universities in Canada are among the top worldwide. On the contrary, New Zealand universities are renowned for top education with pocket-friendly tuition fees. Here, we have listed the cost of studying in Canada vs New Zealand for Indian students.
Tuition Fees in Canada for International Students
The cost of studying in Canada varies as on the location, university, and course level. However, these are the average course fees as per the study levels:
Cost of studying in Canada
Particulars | Expenses (CAD) |
Bachelors | 13,000 to 20,000 |
Masters | 17,000 to 25,000 |
Doctoral | 7,000 to 15,000 |
MBA | 30,000 to 40,000 |
Tuition Fees in New Zealand for International Students
Depending on the location, course type, and study level, tuition fees in New Zealand also vary. Students require EUR 6,000 to EUR 15,000 and EUR 8,000 to EUR 20,000 on average to cover tuition fees for bachelor's and masters respectively.
Cost of studying in New Zealand
Particulars | Expenses (GBP) |
Bachelors | EUR 6,000 to EUR 15,000 |
Masters | EUR 8,000 to EUR 20,000 |
Living costs in New Zealand | NZD 20,000 to NZD 25,000 per year |
Cost of Living in Canada vs New Zealand
The living expenses incurred in both countries differ according to the life choices and amenities choices of individuals. However, international students can look at the average living expenses in Canada and New Zealand.
Living Expenses in Canada vs New Zealand for International Students
Expenses list | Living costs in Canada (CAD) | Living costs in New Zealand (EUR) |
Accommodation | 1,000 to 2,000 | 1,000 to 2,000 |
Food and Groceries | 300 - 500 | 400 to 600 |
Transportation | 100 - 150 | 100 to 150 |
Utilities and Internet | 150 - 200 | 150 to 200 |
Personal Expenses | 100 - 200 | 100 to 150 |
Student Visa Requirements for Canada vs New Zealand
One of the mandatory requirements to study in Canada or New Zealand is a student visa. Aspirants must comply with the student visa requirements of the selected country to pursue their higher education. Here, we have provided the basic differences between Canada vs New Zealand for international students as per visa requirements.
Student Visa Requirements for New Zealand
Particulars | Details |
Who it’s for | The type of visa varies; however, it is required by all full-time and part-time students admitted into New Zealand universities |
The ideal time to apply | At least 3 months before you intend to travel to New Zealand |
Visa fees | NZD 280 - NZD 480 |
Processing time | 8 to 10 weeks on average |
Is part-time work allowed | Yes |
Student Visa Requirements for Canada
Particulars | Details |
Who it’s for | Any candidate with good health applying for admission to designated learning institutions in Canada by demonstrating sufficient funds to cover their finances is required to obtain a Canadian student visa. |
The ideal time to apply | Three months before your intended date of travel to Canada |
Visa fees | CAD 150 |
Processing time | Varies as per the location and the volume of Canadian student visa applications. Generally, it takes 4-6 weeks in India |
Is part-time work allowed | Yes, it is restricted to 20 hours per week |
Also Read:
Jobs in Demand in Canada and New Zealand for Indian Students
One must be aware of the career opportunities after completing their respective courses in both countries to make an informed study decision now. So, these are a few of the top job options for international students seeking admission in Canada and New Zealand.
Highest Paying Jobs in Canada
Here, we have presented the top and in-demand jobs in Canada for international students:
Highest-Paying Careers in Canada for Indian Students
Professions | Average Salary per Annum (CAD) |
Registered Nurse | 70,975 |
Electrical Engineer | 91,832 |
Veterinarian | 95,804 |
Accountant | 56,257 |
Web Developers | 72,627 |
Pharmacist | 89,314 |
Popular Jobs in New Zealand
Some of the professional options after graduating from universities in New Zealand are mentioned below:
Highest-Paying Careers in New Zealand for Indian Students
Professions | Average Salary per Annum (NZD) |
Software Engineer | 98,000 |
Physician | 1,20,000 |
Information Technology Manager | 1,25,000 |
Surgeon | 1,80,000 |
Anaesthesiologist | 2,00,000 |
Marketing Specialist | 70,000 |
Registered Nurse | 73,000 |
Civil Engineer | 75,000 |
Accountant | 80,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is life better in Canada or New Zealand?
A:
Both the countries, Canada and New Zealand offer high standards of life for international students. However, the educational system in Canada is generally considered to be slightly better than New Zealand's. Both countries are affordable with low crime rates as compared to other study destinations.
Q: Is New Zealand or Canada cheaper?
A:
Both countries are quite affordable for international students. However, Canada is more cheaper than New Zealand.
Q: Which PR is easy, Canada or New Zealand?
A:
New Zealand PR is quite flexible and simple for international students in comparison with Canada. This is due to the latest updates on immigration policies of Canada and New Zealand.
Q: Which country is better for Indian student?
A:
Students must note that it depends on personal choices and preferences while selecting which country is the best for their studies. Students need to consider factors such as cost of living, budget, safety, standards of life, and many other factors before deciding. Some of the better options for students include New Zealand, US, UK, Canada, and many more.
Q: Is New Zealand good for Indian students?
A:
Yes, New Zealand is good for Indian students as it hubs some of the prestigious universities in the world offers affordability to students, pocket-friendly tuition fees for courses, and many more.
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