New Zealand international enrolments grow 16% with Indian students leading the way. (AI Image)
Indian student enrolments in New Zealand have surged by nearly 50 percent since 2023, signalling a strong rebound in international education. Between January and April 2025, more than 63,000 international students were enrolled with New Zealand education providers, representing a 16 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Amanda Malu, Chief Executive of Education New Zealand, said the positive results “reflect New Zealand’s ability to provide a high-quality education within an environment that fosters meaningful connections and relationships,” as reported by Education New Zealand. She noted it is “the only national survey focused on international student experience in all subsectors,” providing valuable data for the sector to monitor trends and improve services. Indian students remain a key part of this growth, with their numbers contributing significantly to the rise in overall enrolments. Indian student growth estimate China and India continue to be the top source countries for international students in New Zealand. Other notable countries include Japan, South Korea, Sri Lanka, the US, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Germany. Sri Lanka and Nepal have moved up the rankings, reflecting shifting student mobility patterns. She added that while the sector is seeing steady recovery, the focus remains on delivering a high-quality experience that supports student wellbeing and a sense of belonging. Marie Clark, Director of Insights and Performance at Education New Zealand, described the student experience survey as a vital tool.