International Student Satisfaction in New Zealand Remains Strong at 87%

New Zealand continues to uphold its reputation as one of the world’s most student-friendly destinations, with a recent survey revealing that 87% of international students are satisfied with their overall experience in the country. 

The findings, released by Education New Zealand (ENZ), highlight the country’s ongoing success in providing a supportive and enriching environment for learners from across the globe.

The new survey results show a slight but meaningful increase from last year’s 86%, reflecting New Zealand’s steady recovery and resilience in the global education sector after the pandemic.

A Deeper Look at the Survey

Conducted by Education New Zealand, the survey gathered responses from more than 5,400 international students studying across universities, institutes of technology, private training providers, and schools.

 Students were asked about various aspects of their experience, from academic quality and arrival support to social life and value for money.

An encouraging 43% of respondents rated their experience as “excellent”, marking a two-point increase compared to the previous year. 

The report also noted a continued rise in enrollments, with 63,610 international students studying in New Zealand between January and April 2025, representing a 16% increase from the same period in 2024 and nearly 50% growth since 2023.

This surge in numbers shows not only the country’s attractiveness to overseas learners but also a strong confidence in its education system.

Students Appreciate Quality and Warmth

The survey painted a heartening picture of what draws international students to New Zealand and keeps them happy once they arrive. The quality of education remains a central factor, with 90% of students giving it a positive rating.

Beyond academics, New Zealand’s warm and inclusive culture also shines through. A remarkable 92% of students expressed satisfaction with the people they met and the friendships they formed, while 89% praised the arrival and orientation experience that helped them settle in comfortably.

Equally important is the value for money, which has seen notable improvement. This year, 76% of international students felt they were receiving good value for the cost of their education, a sharp rise from 65% the previous year. 

This suggests that institutions and policymakers are responding effectively to earlier feedback, ensuring that students see tangible benefits in return for their investment.

Leadership Response and Government Strategy

ENZ Chief Executive Amanda Malu described the findings as “encouraging news,” emphasizing that they reflect both the dedication of education providers and the welcoming nature of New Zealand communities. 

She noted that maintaining such high satisfaction levels is vital as the country aims to grow its international education sector responsibly and sustainably.

These positive results align with the government’s “Going for Growth” strategy, a long-term plan that aims to expand international student enrolments to around 119,000 by 2034.

The strategy also seeks to double the sector’s economic value from NZD 3.6 billion to NZD 7.2 billion over the next decade.

Recent policy reforms have further strengthened this vision. The government has eased working hour restrictions for overseas students and introduced clearer visa links with education providers. 

These changes are designed to make studying in New Zealand more rewarding both academically and financially while ensuring that international students remain well-supported throughout their journey.

A Sign of Confidence in Post-Pandemic Recovery

The 87% satisfaction rate is not just a number,  it’s a reflection of New Zealand’s successful rebuilding of its international education ecosystem after years of border closures and disruptions. 

Universities and colleges have worked hard to re-establish global partnerships, enhance student support services, and adapt programs to meet international standards.

Students now benefit from a more connected learning environment, with digital resources, cultural integration programs, and dedicated support teams making their academic journey smoother. 

The fact that satisfaction levels have not only remained high but slightly improved indicates that these collective efforts are paying off.

The Road Ahead

While the report celebrates these positive outcomes, it also highlights areas for further improvement. Stakeholders are encouraged to continue enhancing the “excellent” category by ensuring that more students rate their experiences at the highest level. Strengthening affordability and accessibility remains a key priority, particularly as global inflation affects living costs and tuition fees.

Education experts also suggest that continued investment in student well-being, accommodation, and employment support will help maintain New Zealand’s competitive edge in the international education market.

A Welcoming Message to Future Students

For prospective international students, these findings offer reassurance that New Zealand remains one of the most supportive and rewarding destinations to pursue higher education. 

From the warmth of local communities to the world-class academic standards, it’s clear that students feel both valued and inspired throughout their stay.

As the sector continues to grow, New Zealand’s commitment to maintaining high satisfaction rates will likely play a pivotal role in attracting even more global talent in the years to come.