Year in review: big ambitions drive New Zealand’s comeback

Here are five stories from 2025 that painted a picture of renewed confidence and long-term ambition for New Zealand’s international education sector.

1. NZ debuts growth plan as it eyes 35k more international students

One of the biggest signals of intent this year came with the launch of New Zealand’s International Education Going for Growth plan. The strategy laid out an ambitious vision to lift international enrolments by 35,000 and nearly double the sector’s value to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034. Measures such as increased student work hours and expanded post-study opportunities made it clear the country is back in growth mode – but with an emphasis on quality and sustainability.

2. International student satisfaction in New Zealand remains strong at 87%

International students continue to rate New Zealand highly. Survey results showed overall satisfaction holding strong at 87%, with education quality, welcoming communities and arrival experiences all scoring particularly well. The data offered reassurance that recovery hasn’t come at the expense of the student experience.

3. Study visa applications to NZ dip, approval rate jumps nearly 7%

While study visa applications to New Zealand dipped slightly year on year, approval rates jumped by nearly seven percentage points to around 88%. The data pointed to shifting demand – with applications easing from China but stronger approval volumes from India and Nepal, alongside more positive outcomes for students who did apply.

4. NZ releases new tertiary education strategy to boost economy

The release of New Zealand’s Tertiary Education Strategy 2025–2030 reinforced the government’s message that education and economic growth are deeply connected. The strategy focused on skills, workforce alignment and stronger employment outcomes, while also reshaping the domestic tertiary landscape.

5. NZ’s international education sector delivers NZ$4.5bn economic boost

Rounding out the year, fresh figures confirmed just how important international education has become to New Zealand’s economy. The sector delivered a NZ$4.5bn boost, placing it among the country’s top export earners. With enrolments continuing to rise and growth policies now in place, the numbers underlined why international education remains firmly on the government’s agenda.

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