New Zealand’s international education sector is booming, especially for Indian students, with enrollments soaring by almost 50% since 2023. This impressive growth reflects a significant post-pandemic comeback. From January to April 2025 alone, over 63,000 international students chose New Zealand, marking a solid 16% increase over the previous year. Indian students are clearly at the forefront of this exciting surge.
This remarkable expansion is a testament to New Zealand’s successful recovery from the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic. A recent survey by Education New Zealand points to several key attractions: streamlined visa processes, generous work opportunities, and a high-quality education system.
Streamlined Visas and Enhanced Work Opportunities
A significant factor fueling this growth is New Zealand’s efficient visa system, which now processes applications in just about 12 days. This rapid turnaround offers a clear edge over destinations like Canada or the UK, where wait times can be considerably longer. Education New Zealand confirms that this efficiency has “built confidence in the system” among aspiring Indian students.
Furthermore, New Zealand has become an even more appealing study destination thanks to extended post-study work rights. Indian students can now work up to 25 hours per week during their studies, providing valuable financial support and practical work experience. These flexible work policies meet both immediate financial needs and long-term career goals, boosting New Zealand’s competitiveness in the global education landscape.
World-Class Education at a Competitive Price
New Zealand boasts top-tier universities offering programs specifically designed to address local skill shortages, often aligned with the government’s “Green List.” This strategic alignment provides Indian graduates with clear and promising career prospects. Beyond academic excellence, affordability plays a crucial role. Tuition fees are often more competitive than in many other Western nations, and living costs in several cities are quite reasonable. Attractive scholarships, including awards of NZ$10,000 for outstanding students, further sweeten the deal for those considering studies in New Zealand.
| Metric | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 (Jan-Apr) |
| Total international students | 42,700 | 54,690 | 63,610 |
| Percentage increase | — | +28 | +16 |
| Indian student growth estimate | — | — | +49 |
Evolving Source Countries and Sector-Specific Growth
While China and India remain the primary sources of international students for New Zealand, there’s a broader mix emerging. Other significant contributors include Japan, South Korea, Sri Lanka, the United States, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Germany. Notably, Sri Lanka and Nepal have climbed the ranks, indicating a dynamic shift in global student mobility.
Growth isn’t confined to one area; all education subsectors are experiencing an upswing. However, Private Training Establishments (PTEs) have seen the most dramatic increase, with enrollments surging by 41% compared to 2024.
| Education subsector | Growth from 2024 to 2025 |
| Private Training Establishments | +41% |
| Universities | +15% |
| +12% |
Insights from Education New Zealand
Amanda Malu, Chief Executive of Education New Zealand, enthusiastically shared that these encouraging figures demonstrate “New Zealand’s ability to provide a high-quality education within an environment that fosters meaningful connections and relationships.” She emphasized that while the sector is certainly on a path to steady recovery, the core mission remains to deliver an exceptional experience that prioritizes student well-being and a strong sense of community.
Marie Clark, Director of Insights and Performance at Education New Zealand, highlighted the crucial role of their student experience survey. She noted its unique position as “the only national survey focused on international student experience in all subsectors,” making it an invaluable resource for tracking trends and continually enhancing services.