Study Abroad: New Zealand's international student enrolment grows 24% in one year

NEW DELHI: New Zealand’s international education sector has rebounded up to 24% compared to last year and 6% higher than the 2023 totals, says Penny Simmonds the Tertiary Education and Skills Minister.

“Around 73,535 enrolments from January to August 2024, the country had more enrolment in just two terms this year as compared to last year,” the minister adds.

The rising growth in international student enrolment is a testament to New Zealand’s global reputation for high-quality education. The students not only enrich the campuses but also boost the economy, contributing to jobs, local businesses, and communities nationwide.

According to the Education New Zealand (ENZ) report, the past trends are pointing towards an increase in further enrolments before the year ends, giving positive results for the education sector.

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Rise in enrolments in New Zealand

The rise in enrollment shows national recovery as well as significant regional gains from 2023. According to the ENZ report, Gisborne has seen growth with an increase of 126%; Marlborough by 45%; Hawke’s Bay has risen by 28% and Waikato is up to 26%.

Universities and schools in New Zealand are leading the growth. The universities have enrolled 31,345 international students, a 14% increase, and schools saw a rise of 33% to 16,815 students, including a 69% jump in primary school enrolments. Moreover, funded private training institutions also grew by 80% compared to last year.

“Diversity in source markets strengthens our education sector,” adds the ENZ report. While China and India are top contributors to several enrolments, there’s a surge in US, Thailand, Germany, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines enrolments, with each country making up 3% of international students.

“Every funded part of the sector has seen growth this year, with universities now just 7% below pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of New Zealand’s education providers,” minister Penny Simmonds adds.