New Zealand vs Australia: Best Country for Indian Students

When it comes to studying abroad, New Zealand and Australia are two of the most popular choices for Indian students. Both countries offer top-quality education, excellent universities, and plenty of opportunities for students to grow in their careers. On top of that, their beautiful landscapes, welcoming people, and vibrant cultures make them exciting places to live and study. 

Deciding where to study is a big step and can have a huge impact on your future. Things like the cost of education, the quality of teaching, job opportunities after graduation, and the overall lifestyle are important factors to consider. For Indian students, it’s all about finding the right balance between a great education and an affordable, supportive environment. 

But don’t worry, we’ll make it easy for you, we’ll compare New Zealand Vs Australia across all these key areas to help you figure out which country is the best fit for your dreams and goals. 

Education System Overview: New Zealand Vs Australia 

A. Study in Australia as an Indian Student 

Australia has long been a favorite study destination for Indian students, and it’s no surprise why. With globally recognized universities, a strong emphasis on research and innovation, and a diverse range of courses, Australia offers something for every student. Its institutions consistently rank among the best in the world, attracting students who value academic excellence and cutting-edge facilities. 

Why is Australia a popular choice for Indian students? 

• Home to several top-ranked universities. 
• Extensive research opportunities in various fields. 
• Wide range of courses catering to different career aspirations. 
• Multicultural environment with a large Indian community. 

Top 10 Australian University for Indian Students: 

Note: The World QS rankings are subject to change. 

Popular Courses to Study in Australia 

Australia attracts Indian students with its strong focus on research, global university rankings, and post-study work opportunities. Here are the top courses: 

• Engineering and Technology (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, IT, and Software Engineering) 
• Business and Management Studies (MBA, Finance, Marketing, International Business) 
• Information Technology (IT) (Focus on AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing) 
• Healthcare and Medicine (Nursing, Public Health, and Medical Research) 
• Hospitality and Tourism Management 
• Education and Teaching (Early Childhood Education, Special Education, etc.) 

B. Study in New Zealand as an Indian Student 

New Zealand is rapidly gaining popularity among Indian students for its focus on practical learning and a student-centric education system. Universities here offer smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and a better learning experience. 

The country is known for its safe environment and globally recognized degrees, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful yet academically rewarding experience. 

Why is New Zealand a popular choice for Indian students? 

• High-quality universities with global rankings. 

• Smaller class sizes for personalized learning. 

• Affordable tuition fees and living costs compared to other countries. 

• Strong post-study work opportunities in key industries. 

Top 10 Universities in New Zealand for Indian Students: 

Note: The World QS rankings are subject to change. 

Popular Courses to Study in New Zealand 

New Zealand’s education system emphasizes practical learning, smaller class sizes, and industry-aligned courses. Popular programs include: 

• Agriculture and Environmental Studies (Agribusiness, Viticulture, Environmental Science) 
• Information Technology and Computer Science (AI, Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity are in demand) 
• Business and Commerce (MBA, Accounting, and Entrepreneurship courses are highly popular) 
• Engineering (Civil, Environmental, and Renewable Energy Engineering are top choices) 
• Tourism and Hospitality 
• Creative Arts and Design (Animation, Graphic Design, and Film Production) 
• Healthcare and Nursing (Midwifery, nursing, and public health) 

Affordability and Cost of Living: Australia Vs New Zealand 

Both countries offer high-quality education and opportunities for scholarships, but New Zealand might be slightly more affordable overall due to lower tuition fees and cost of living. However, Australia’s broader range of top-ranked universities and scholarships might justify the higher costs for many students. 

A. Australia 

1. Tuition Fees: 

• Bachelor’s Degrees: ₹12-25 lakhs per year, depending on the university and field of study. Programs in medicine or law can exceed ₹30 lakhs annually  

• Master’s Degrees: ₹15-30 lakhs per year. Research-intensive or professional degrees may cost more. 

2. Living Expenses: 

In cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, monthly living expenses can vary between ₹76,000 and ₹1.5 lakhs, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. On-campus housing typically starts from ₹40,000 per month, while shared accommodations start around ₹31,000 

3. Scholarships for Indian Students: 

Australia offers several scholarships, including Australia Awards, university-specific scholarships, and grants for Indian students. These helps reduce the financial burden significantly. 

B. New Zealand 

1. Comparatively Lower Tuition Fees: 

Tuition fees in New Zealand are more affordable, averaging ₹10 lakhs to ₹20 lakhs per year, depending on the field of study and institution. 

• Bachelor’s Degrees: ₹10-18 lakhs per year. Engineering and technology programs may cost more. 

• Master’s Degrees: ₹12-20 lakhs per year, with research-based programs often priced at the higher end. 

2. Living Expenses: 

Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are slightly less expensive than major Australian cities, with monthly living costs ranging from ₹60,000 to ₹1.2 lakhs, including rent, food, and transportation. 

3. Scholarship Opportunities for Indian Students: 

Scholarships such as the New Zealand Excellence Awards and university-specific awards are available for Indian students. These scholarships often cover partial or full tuition costs. 

Important: The tuition fees and living costs mentioned above are estimates and may vary based on the program, university, and city. For accurate budgeting, accommodation options, and personalized advice, consult the study abroad experts at Shuraa Education. 

Visa Policies and Post-Study Work Opportunities: New Zealand Vs Australia 

A. Australia 

1. Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students (Subclass 500): 

• Enrollment: Applicants must be enrolled in a recognized course in Australia. 
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: You must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia temporarily and return to your home country afterward. This involves providing evidence of your academic and financial background, ties to your home country, and reasons for choosing Australia. 
• Language Proficiency: An IELTS score of 6.0 (undergraduate) or 6.5 (graduate) is required. 
• Financial Proof: Students need to show AUD 24,505 in savings for living expenses annually. 
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Compulsory health insurance for the duration of your stay. 
• New Updates (2024): Simplified Genuine Student requirements replace the previous 300-word statement. 

2. Post-Study Work Visa Policies (Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485): 

Graduates are eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa. Duration depends on the qualification: 

• Bachelor’s and Master’s (Coursework): 2 years. 
• Master’s (Research): 3 years. 
• PhD: 4 years. 

Students in regional areas may receive an additional year on their visa. 

3. Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR): 

• Post-study work experience in high-demand occupations can lead to PR through skilled migration streams. 
• PR pathways include the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). 
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) requires nomination by a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area. 

B. New Zealand 

1. Student Visa Process and Requirements for Indian Students: 

• Enrollment: Must be admitted to a recognized educational institution. 
• Language Proficiency: A minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 is typical, depending on the program. 
• Financial Requirements: Proof of NZD 20,000 per year for living costs is required. 
• Insurance: Students must have valid health insurance for their stay. 

2. Post-Study Work Visa Duration and Benefits: 

Post-study work visas allow international students to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on the qualification and location of study. These visas enable graduates to gain practical experience, which is often required for residency applications. 

3. PR Opportunities for International Students: 

New Zealand offers PR pathways through the Skilled Migrant Category for students who gain work experience in roles aligned with the Long-Term Skill Shortage List. Graduates with advanced degrees or work experience in priority sectors have higher chances of gaining PR. 

Lifestyle and Cultural Fit: New Zealand Vs Australia 

Both countries are great for Indian students, depending on whether you prefer a lively city lifestyle (Australia) or a peaceful, adventure-filled experience (New Zealand). 

A. Australia 

• Australia is known for its diverse, multicultural society, with a large Indian student community. This makes it easy for Indian students to adapt and feel at home, with various cultural events and Indian food widely available in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. 

• Australia offers vibrant cities alongside beautiful natural landscapes like the Great Barrier Reef and national parks. Students can enjoy both urban excitement and outdoor activities like hiking and beach trips. 

• Australia has diverse climates, with mild weather in many regions. Indian students can easily find familiar food, as Indian cuisine is widely available across the country. 

B. New Zealand 

• New Zealand offers a more relaxed and intimate lifestyle. Kiwis are friendly, making it easy for international students to adjust. The country’s slower pace may be appealing to those looking for a less overwhelming environment. 

• New Zealand is perfect for students who enjoy outdoor adventures, with activities like hiking and skiing available year-round. The country emphasizes work-life balance, making it easier to enjoy both academic and personal time. 

Career Opportunities for Indian Students: Australia Vs New Zealand 

Both countries provide excellent career prospects, with Australia offering a larger job market and more industry collaborations, while New Zealand offers growing sectors and part-time work opportunities. 

A. Australia 

Australia offers a wide range of job opportunities for Indian students in industries like IT, healthcare, engineering, and business. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are major hubs for tech startups and multinational corporations, which regularly seek skilled international talent. 

Australian universities have strong ties with various industries, offering students opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborative research projects. 

Average Salary for Indian Students: 

• IT & Computer Science: AUD 70,000 to AUD 120,000 annually (₹40 lakhs to ₹68 lakhs). 

• Engineering: AUD 80,000 to AUD 155,000 annually (₹45 lakhs to ₹89 lakhs). 

• Healthcare: AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000 annually (₹40 lakhs to ₹60 lakhs). 

• Business & Finance (e.g., Analysts, Managers): AUD 100,000 to AUD 193,000 annually (₹57 lakhs to ₹1.1 crore). 

B. New Zealand 

New Zealand’s job market is expanding, especially in industries such as agriculture, technology, and tourism. The country’s tech sector is growing rapidly, with increasing demand for software developers, engineers, and data scientists. 

International students in New Zealand are allowed to work part-time during their studies (up to 20 hours per week during the semester). This is an excellent opportunity to gain work experience and earn money while studying. 

Average Salary for Indian Students: 

• IT & Computer Science: NZD 60,000 to NZD 100,000 annually (₹30 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs). 
• Engineering: NZD 55,000 to NZD 95,000 annually (₹28 lakhs to ₹48 lakhs). 
• Healthcare (e.g., Nurses): NZD 55,000 to NZD 85,000 annually (₹28 lakhs to ₹43 lakhs). 
• Business & Finance: NZD 65,000 to NZD 100,000 annually (₹32 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs). 

In New Zealand, the salaries are typically lower than in Australia, but the cost of living is also more affordable, and the job market is growing. 

New Zealand vs Australia: Which is the Best Country for Indian Students? 

If you prioritize top universities, higher salaries, and diverse job opportunities, Australia is the better choice. However, New Zealand is ideal for students seeking affordability, practical learning, and a more relaxed lifestyle. Here’s the quick comparison between New Zealand Vs Australia: 

1. Education Quality 

• Australia is home to top universities like the University of Melbourne and ANU which offer strong research programs and diverse course options, with excellent career prospects. 

• New Zealand universities are known for practical learning and smaller class sizes. Universities like the University of Auckland and Otago offer globally recognized degrees but with slightly lower rankings than Australia. 

2. Affordability 

• Australia: Higher tuition (AUD 20,000–50,000) and living costs, but strong scholarship opportunities and post-study work visas. 

• New Zealand: More affordable tuition (NZD 22,000–40,000) and living costs, with budget-friendly options for international students. 

3. Work Opportunities 

• Australia: Attractive post-study work visa (2-4 years), with strong job markets in engineering, healthcare, and business. 

• New Zealand: Offers post-study work visas (1-3 years), with growing job prospects in tech and agriculture. 

4. Lifestyle & Culture 

• Australia: Multicultural environment with a large Indian community, making it socially comfortable for international students. 

• New Zealand: Relaxed lifestyle with a focus on nature, outdoor activities, and a welcoming environment for students. 

Seek Professional Assistance from Shuraa Education 

If you’re looking for top universities, higher salaries, and more career opportunities in fields like IT, engineering, and business, Australia may be the right fit, especially if you have a higher budget. If you prefer a more affordable option, with a relaxed lifestyle and smaller class sizes, New Zealand could be a better choice. It offers a more budget-friendly experience while still providing a solid education. 

Take some time to think about your budget, career goals, and the kind of lifestyle you want. For personalized guidance, Shuraa Education is here to help. We can assist with everything—from choosing the best country and university for you to managing your applications, accommodation, and budgeting. Let us support you in making the right choice for your future.