After experiencing a downturn resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, New Zealand’s international education sector has made a remarkable recovery in 2023. This strikes a new growing popularity from the previous 43% surge in their international student enrolments last 20 March. According to the newly released figures by Education New Zealand (ENZ), the number of international student enrolments across various educational sectors surged by 67% compared to the previous year.
This significant rebound from the pandemic brought the total number of enrolments to 69,135 in 2023. Despite remaining below the pre-pandemic peak of 115,705 in 2019, which represents 60% of the 2019 figures, this recent growth highlights New Zealand’s effective strategy in navigating ongoing global challenges and fostering a positive environment for international education.
Sector-specific growth
Universities and schools have shown the strongest recovery among New Zealand’s educational sub-sectors. Universities enrolled 29,065 international students, achieving 86% of the enrolment levels seen in 2019. Additionally, English language schools experienced the highest percentage increase, with enrolments soaring by 511% from 1,565 in 2022 to 9,570 in 2023.
The school sector also expanded significantly, with enrolments rising by 138% to 14,125 students. Moreover, Private Training Establishments (PTEs) and Te Pūkenga (New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology) enrolled 59% and 74% more international students in 2023 than in 2022, respectively.
Major source countries
China and India remain the largest contributors to New Zealand’s international student population, making up 35% and 17% of the total enrolments, respectively. Other significant contributors include Japan (10%), South Korea (5%), and Thailand (4%). This heavy reliance on the top two source markets mirrors the patterns seen in Canada and the US, where Chinese and Indian students also make up fundamental portions of the international student body.
The appeal of New Zealand
Acting Chief Executive of Education New Zealand, Linda Sissons, attributed the recovery to New Zealand’s reputation as “a safe, welcoming environment.” The gradual easing of COVID-19 border restrictions allowed the region to avoid the challenges faced by certain countries like Canada, the UK and Australia, which have implemented stricter immigration policies due to housing concerns and rising student numbers.
“Over 69,000 enrolments from international students all over the world is good news for our education sector and positive for our communities. It confirms that New Zealand is an attractive place to study, offering a quality learning experience inside and outside the classroom in a safe, welcoming environment,” Sissons said.
Government and community support
The New Zealand government is committed to supporting and expanding its international education sector. An ENZ survey from late last year revealed that 77% of New Zealanders support international education, a significant increase from 47% in 2016. To ensure sustainable growth, New Zealand has focused on providing strong support structures for international students. This includes not only academic placements but also comprehensive support services to enhance the student experience.
Future prospects
New Zealand’s international education sector is poised for further growth and diversification. The government is actively diversifying its recruitment efforts to attract students from a broader range of countries, reinforcing the country’s position as a globally connected and thriving educational hub. Despite challenges, the sector’s recovery in 2023 marks a positive trajectory towards regaining and potentially surpassing pre-pandemic enrolment levels.
The country’s strategic approach to reopening its borders and the supportive environment for international students have positioned the country as one of the leading destinations for quality education. This rebound in 2023 signifies not just a recovery but also future growth and development in the sector.
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