Are you planning to study abroad and confused between Australia and New Zealand? Both countries have their fair share of Unique qualities but you need to find which will suit you the best. While Australia is a hub of top universities and New Zealand is a hub for affordable education, both countries have their features. It might be a tough decision to make but do not worry, we have got you. This article will be your only guide in deciding if you want to pursue your study abroad in Australia or New Zealand.
Academic Excellence:
Both Australia and New Zealand are filled with world-class universities and colleges that are globally renowned for their academic quality. In Australia, institutions like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and the University of Sydney consistently rank among the top in the world. Similarly, New Zealand’s universities, including the University of Auckland and the University of Otago, are highly respected globally for their research contributions and teaching standards.
Education System:
New Zealand
New Zealand has various courses to study like diplomas, Undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD degrees. International students must meet university eligibility criteria like English proficiency, exams, and previous study records as per the need of the course they are choosing. In addition, they need to have a mandatory English language requirement. A diploma program is compulsory for students getting admission to a bachelor’s degree, a 12 academic report is required for a UG degree, and so on. The requirements can vary from college to college as well.
Australia
Australian Universities and Colleges also offer courses from undergraduate degrees to PhD. International students need 12 years of academic reports from a recognized institute and exams like the GMAT, SAT and a few other tests to get selected for the courses. Moreover, to get admission to an undergraduate course you need an academic report of 12th standard, for postgraduate courses, you must complete your undergraduate courses.
Top Universities
Here is the list of top universities in both of the countries.
| QS world rank 2024 | New Zealand | QS world rank 2024 | Australia |
| University of Auckland | 85 | 26 | University of Melbourne |
| University of Otago | 184 | 31 | Australian National University |
| Victoria University of Wellington | 216 | 40 | University of Sydney |
| University of Canterbury | 221 | 45 | University of New South Wales |
| Massey University – | 291 | 47 | University of Queensland |
| University of Waikato | 341 | 84 | University of Western Australia |
| Auckland University of Technology | 351 | 58 | Monash University |
| Lincoln University | 401 | 101 | University of Adelaide |
| University of Wellington | N/A | 160 | The University of Technology Sydney |
| University of Otago, Christchurch | N/A | 201 | University of Wollongong |
Admission Requirement:
Here are a few documents required to get eligibility to take admission in New Zealand and Australia.
| New Zealand | Australia |
| – Accurate Application Form – Academic reports as per your admission requirement. – GMAT/ GRE Scores (if required by the university and program) – English Proficiency Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) – Minimum 70% and above in high school. – Copy of Passport – Statement of purpose (SOP) – New Zealand Study Visa – Letter or Recommendation | – Accurate Application Form – Academic reports as per your admission requirement. – GMAT/ GRE Scores (if required by the university and program) – English Proficiency Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) – Minimum 60% and above in high school. – Copy of Passport – Statement of purpose (SOP) – Australia Study Visa – Letter or Recommendation |
Cost of Living:
The cost of living is important for international students, as it impacts their overall expenses. While Australia is generally taken as more expensive than New Zealand, the cost of living can vary depending on the city and lifestyle choices of the individual.
| Expenses (PER YEAR) | New Zealand | Australia |
| Average Cost of studying(PER YEAR) | AUD 20,000 – AUD 50,000 | AUD 7,000 – AUD 70,000 |
| Average Cost of Living (PER YEAR) | AUD 5,000 – AUD 20,000 | AUD 10,000 – AUD 40,000 |
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
Both Australia and New Zealand offer scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students, although the availability and eligibility criteria may differ. Australian universities often provide a range of scholarships based on specific criteria. Similarly, New Zealand institutions offer scholarships to attract top talent from around the world.
| New Zealand | Australia |
| – New Zealand Scholarships – New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) – New Zealand Common Wealth Scholarships – New Zealand ASEAN Scholar Awards – University-Specific Scholarships | – New Zealand Scholarships – New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) – New Zealand Common Wealth Scholarships – New Zealand ASEAN Scholar Awards – University-Specific Scholarships |
Work Opportunities:
International students often seek part-time work opportunities to support themselves financially and get work experience. Both Australia and New Zealand allow international students to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during long class breaks. Here are the top 5 professions followed in both of the countries.
| Profession | Average Salary in Australia | Average Salary in New Zealand |
| Software Engineer | AUD 85,000 – AUD 130,000 | NZD 65,000 – NZD 100,000 |
| Nurse | AUD 60,000 – AUD 100,000 | NZD 55,000 – NZD 75,000 |
| Accountant | AUD 50,000 – AUD 90,000 | NZD 50,000 – NZD 80,000 |
| Engineer | AUD 70,000 – AUD 120,000 | NZD 65,000 – NZD 110,000 |
| Marketing | AUD 50,000 – AUD 90,000 | NZD 50,000 – NZD 80,000 |
Visas
New Zealand Visa Types
- Fee Paying Student Visa: A full-time study permit is provided with this visa, it lets you work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours while studying and full-time while studying holidays and breaks.
- MFAT- Funded NZ Scholarship Student Visa: To be eligible, your funding must be provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Education New Zealand. This states that your education is sponsored by the NZ scholarship with your living expenses too.
- Exchange Student Visa: Students benefiting from exchange programs are allotted this visa. This visa enrolls you as a domestic student, which does not require you to pay any fee. With this visa, you can work part-time as per your study schedule.
- Pathway Student Visa: A pathway visa allows you to study three courses with a single visa. The duration and benefits are similar to a normal visa where you can study and work part-time for up to 20 hours and full-time during the holidays as per your courses.
Australia Visa Types
- Student visa (subclass 500)
With this visa you can take part in any eligible course of study at the university, you can also travel in and out of Australia and work up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study is in action. Your stay will be for a limit of 5 years.
- Student Guardian visa (subclass 590)
This is a temporary visa and your stay will depend on the student visa holder. You’ll be in the country to provide care to the student who is under the age criteria of 18 years.
- Training visa (subclass 407)
This visa allows you a stay of about 2 years. This ensures your visit is a training-based program. To improve your skills and job expertise. The Australian student visa is valid for up to 5 years, depending on the course duration. It can be extended if required, and applications for visa extensions can be made even from India.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, choosing between Australia and New Zealand to study abroad is a decision that should be based on individual preferences, and academic goals. Both countries offer outstanding educational opportunities, vibrant cultures, and an excellent quality of life. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling cities and diverse landscapes of Australia or the laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty of New Zealand, you’re sure to find a welcoming and enriching environment for your academic journey.
