Finishing school or even completing a bachelor’s degree is a proud moment, but it often leaves students with a big question- What next and where should I go for higher education? With so many countries promoting international study, and constant disputes or uncertainties making headlines, choosing the right destination can feel overwhelming. Many Indian students find themselves lost in endless searches, wondering which country will offer safety, quality education, and a true international experience. This is where New Zealand shines as a trusted choice. Known for its peaceful environment, cultural diversity, and globally respected education system, New Zealand has become one of the top destinations for students who want a balance of academic excellence and real-world skills. However, even after deciding to study in New Zealand, the challenge continues- because the country itself has a wide number of institutes, each with unique offerings.
Picking the right one can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to struggle with this choice. Among all the options, Yoobee College has built its name as a leader with creative, practical, and career-driven programs that match the needs of today’s industries. In this blog, written under the guidance of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, we will explore why Yoobee College is the best choice for Indian students planning their future and applying for a New Zealand study visa.
About Yoobee College
Yoobee College of Creative Innovation has been shaping creative and technical talent in New Zealand for over 30 years, evolving under various names to become a leader in its field. Officially, the current institution formed in May 2019 when well-known schools, such as the Animation College, South Seas Film & Television School, Yoobee School of Design, and AMES, Institute of IT joined forces to create an interdisciplinary college. Yoobee has campuses across key cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, and it also offers online learning. The college prides itself on small classes, strong mentor support, and an open, welcoming culture where students can find their creative voice among peers who inspire each other.
Popular Courses offered by Yoobee College
Yoobee College offers diverse fields such as animation, design, film, technology, marketing, and more. Some of the most popular courses taken by the international students are:
Master of Software Engineering
The Master of Software Engineering at Yoobee is a one-year, project-driven course that builds strong tech skills. You’ll learn advanced topics like software architecture, cloud security, data analytics, blockchain, AI, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) through hands-on teamwork and real projects. The course is perfect for Indian students passionate about building software, solving real-world problems, and wanting a creative-tech career. As you study in New Zealand, this degree helps you grow into a well-rounded software specialist, ready for roles like systems analyst, developer, or software architect. By working on real projects, from coding basics to capstone work, you’ll gain practical skills that employers value. If you dream of shaping tech futures in an inspiring international environment, this is a great choice.
Master of Business Informatics- Business Analytics
The Master of Business Informatics- Business Analytics is a one-year, level-9 course designed to turn data into action. You’ll study business systems, data tools, and analytics methods, plus ethical and cultural aspects like Māori frameworks. In the final trimester, you work on an industry-based capstone project, solving real problems with data. This course is ideal for Indian students who love working with numbers, patterns, and business strategy. As you study in New Zealand, you’ll become skilled at using data to drive decisions. If you dream of a career in business analytics, consulting, or tech-driven leadership, this master’s offers a clear path to a smart and practical future.
Master of Business Informatics- Healthcare Informatics
If you care about health and data, the Master of Business Informatics – Healthcare Informatics is a strong pick. It’s a one-year degree that teaches you how to manage healthcare information, secure systems, and use analytics to improve patient outcomes. You’ll start with foundations like data systems and research methods, then work on health-focused tech and analytics topics. This course fits Indian students who want to make a real difference in health using smart tools. As you study in New Zealand, you will gain skills that are in high demand globally, especially in digital health. If making healthcare better using technology excites you, this is a meaningful and forward-looking choice.
Diploma in Film and TV Production
The Diploma in Film and TV Production is a 40-week, hands-on Diploma (Level 6) where you make over 20 real projects- films, TV scenes, and more under expert guidance on real sets. You learn all parts of production: directing, screenwriting, lighting, camera, audio, editing, and teamwork. It’s perfect for Indian students full of creativity, with dreams of working behind the camera. As you study in New Zealand, you’ll gain real film skills and confidence to work on professional sets. This course is great for those wanting to start a career in the film or TV industry with genuine, practical experience in a creative, international setting.
Diploma in Digital Media and Design
The Diploma in Digital Media and Design, also known as Digital Design, Web and Graphic Design is a 40-week Level 5 diploma that teaches both design and tech skills. You learn web design, graphic design, UX/UI, digital content, and how to build a portfolio using tools like Photoshop and web design programs. This diploma is made for Indian students who love creativity, design, and want to make beautiful and useful digital content. While you study in New Zealand, you build real design skills and a strong portfolio for jobs or further study. If you want to work in digital design or web design, this entry-level course gives you a practical and clear start.
Diploma in Creative Digital Design
The Diploma in Creative Digital Design is a 40-week Level 6 course that blends graphic design, motion graphics, 3D tools, AI, storytelling, and branding to help you build strong design skills and a standout portfolio. You work with Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and generative AI to make creative visual projects. This diploma is ideal for Indian students who love design and want to use new digital tools to express ideas. As you study in New Zealand, you learn how to communicate through visuals and build design confidence. If you’re drawn to digital creativity and want a future in design-driven industries, this course gives you a great mix of tech and art to stand out.
Bachelor of Animation
The Bachelor of Animation is a three-year Level 7 degree that gives you a full grounding in animation, from 2D and 3D character animation to VFX, game art, and development. Yoobee is recognized for strong animation training, including being one of only three Houdini Certified Schools in New Zealand, so students get free access to top animation software for some time. This degree suits Indian students who love storytelling, characters, and bringing ideas to life on screen. While you study in New Zealand, you’ll become a skilled animator ready for the creative industry. If you dream of working on animated films, games, or visual effects, this bachelor gives you strong industry-standard animation skills and a creative edge.
Bachelor of Marketing and Creativity
The Bachelor of Marketing and Creativity is a three-year Level 7 degree that combines marketing, design, content creation, branding, web, and product skills. You learn how to plan campaigns, design content, understand consumers, and create visual and marketing projects. This course is perfect for Indian students who enjoy both creative work and business strategy. As you study in New Zealand, you learn to think creatively and market ideas in real-world settings. If you’re excited by branding, digital campaigns, storytelling, and creative problem-solving, this degree helps you build a career that mixes art and business in a global market.
Entry Requirements for International Students
- Academic Qualification: Indian students normally need to have finished the 12th grade (Year 12) or equivalent- like the Indian HSC, if applying for a bachelor-level course. For postgraduate courses, you need a good Bachelor’s degree in a related area.
- English Language Proficiency: Most programmes require proof that you can use English well. This is often shown through tests like IELTS, usually requiring about 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5 or 6.0), or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores.
- Portfolio or Interview (Creative & Tech Courses): For creative courses like animation, design, or film, you may need to show a portfolio of your work. Some tech or animation programmes may also ask for an interview before admission.
- Age and Support Documents: You must be at least 18 years old. You will also need documents like a resume, a motivation letter, and sometimes reference letters to support your application.
- Health Insurance & Visa: As an international student, you must have medical and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand, it’s required for your student visa. Yoobee helps with approved insurance plans to meet New Zealand rules.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
At Yoobee College, tuition fees vary by level. For an international student taking a diploma (Level 5 or 6), you can expect fees around NZD 24,500 to NZD 26,000 per year, plus around NZD 2,000 for course-related costs like software or materials. If you choose a bachelor’s degree, the cost is about NZD 26,000 per year, with NZD 2,000 extra for materials. Postgraduate master’s fees vary but tend to align with these ranges (though check the exact course page for current rates). On top of tuition, you’ll need to cover living costs in New Zealand, which average around NZD 20,000 per year, including accommodation, food, transport, and other daily expenses. Don’t forget about travel expenses, budget at least NZD 2,000 for flights or local travel. This gives a full picture of what Indian students can expect financially when they study in New Zealand at Yoobee College.
Scholarships provided by Yoobee College
Yoobee College of Creative Innovation welcomes international students and offers special scholarships to make studies in New Zealand more affordable. If you are applying for a bachelor program like Animation, Software Engineering, or Marketing & Creativity, you can get a 25% tuition fee scholarship in your first year, and then enjoy an automatic 15% discount in the second and third year. For diploma programs, there is also a 15% fee reduction available once you apply. Students interested in the Master of Software Engineering may also apply for a 25% scholarship, which is offered after a short interview with the college representative. These scholarships help international students reduce costs while studying in New Zealand and give them confidence to focus on learning and building a successful career.
Career Opportunities for International Students
- Strong Employment Outcomes: Yoobee Colleges has a proven track record, about 75% of students, including international learners, move directly into jobs or further study after graduation. This high success rate shows how well Yoobee prepares students for real-world careers when they study in New Zealand.
- Hands-On, Industry-Ready Training: Yoobee’s education follows the motto “You Make, You Learn”, meaning students always learn by making or doing. Whether it’s animation, web design, or software, students build real projects that match industry needs, making them career-ready graduates in creative, tech, and film fields.
- Career Support and Networking: The college offers dedicated career services, including help with resumes, portfolios, mock interviews, and job listings. Partnerships with creative and tech businesses also give students access to internships and industry workshops, great for building confidence and connections.
- Global and Local Success Stories: Many graduates find work right after finishing their courses, and some even get jobs before graduation. Alumni have gone on to work in film, animation, game development, design, and software across New Zealand and worldwide.
New Zealand Student Visa Application Process
- Get Your Offer of Place: First, secure an official offer (also known as an admission offer) from a New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)-approved institute- like Yoobee College. This must show your course name, fees, start and end dates, and modes of study. You’ll need this to start your visa application.
- Apply Through the New Online System (ADEPT): As of August 2025, all international student visa applications go through the enhanced online platform called ADEPT. It guides you through the steps and makes the process faster with less paperwork.
- Gather and Upload Key Documents: Prepare and upload clear digital copies of your:
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure)
- Offer of place
- Proof of funds (minimum NZD 20,000 per year for living costs + tuition)
- Medical exams or chest X-ray (if needed)
- Police clearance (if applicable)
- Health insurance
- Proof of return travel or funds for a return ticket
- Apply Early (Recommended 3 Months Ahead): Immigration authorities urge students to apply at least three months before your course begins, especially during the busy intakes (Nov–Mar and May–Aug), to avoid any delays in approval.
- Payment & Response: Pay your visa fee (currently around NZD 375 for an online application) and wait for processing. This usually takes 20 to 45 working days, depending on factors like document completeness and timing.
West Highlander Immigration
West Highlander Immigration makes the New Zealand study visa process easier for Indian students through trusted online services and expert guidance. Their team offers step-by-step help with course selection, admission, and visa applications, ensuring all requirements are met smoothly. Students can call for free counselling to discuss their study goals and get personalized advice. With years of experience, West Highlander connects students with the right programs at institutes like Yoobee College, making the journey to study in New Zealand stress-free and successful.