New Zealand has been a popular destination for international students, offering world-class education and diverse learning opportunities. Here is an in-depth analysis of trends, demographics, and the evolving landscape of international students in New Zealand based on recent data.

Overview of Student Demographics

As of 2023, there were 42,695 international students enrolled in New Zealand’s educational institutions, contributing 30,475 EFTS (Equivalent Full-Time Students). Comparatively, domestic students significantly outnumber international students, with 342,355 enrollments and 212,510 EFTS. The total student population across both categories is 385,050.

Category

Students

EFTS

International Students

42,695

30,475

Domestic Students

342,355

212,510

Total

385,050

242,985

Trends by Qualification Type

The distribution of international students across qualification levels shows distinct preferences, with significant numbers pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees:

  • Bachelor’s Degrees (Level 7):
    18,900 international students in 2023, maintaining a steady recovery from 16,485 in 2022.
    Asia accounts for the majority of these enrollments, with 15,305 students.
  • Master’s Degrees (Level 9):
    A significant increase in 2023, with 8,795 students, compared to 5,055 in 2022.
    Asia continues to lead with 8,030 students, followed by Europe and North America.
  • Doctorates (Level 10):
    Doctoral programs remain steady, with 4,430 students in 2023, led by Asia (3,135 students) and Europe (445 students).
  • Certificates (Levels 1–4):
    Enrollments are gradually increasing across regions, with Asia showing the largest participation.

Qualification Level

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Certificates 1-4

10,025

9,925

6,780

4,550

3,035

4,555

Diplomas 5-7

10,670

8,500

6,410

4,505

2,395

3,330

Bachelor’s Degrees (Level 7)

20,090

21,505

19,265

17,275

16,485

18,900

Master’s Degrees (Level 9)

6,370

7,980

8,010

6,115

5,055

8,795

Doctorates (Level 10)

4,920

5,065

4,880

4,695

4,310

4,430

Regional Citizenship Breakdown

International students come from diverse regions, with Asia dominating the numbers:

  • Asia:
    Accounted for 35,795 students in 2023, rebounding from the pandemic dip in 2022 (29,340).
    Countries such as China (17,940 students) and India (6,985 students) lead this region.
  • Europe:
    Enrollments increased to 2,020 students in 2023, showing a recovery from 1,075 in 2022.
  • North America:
    Notable growth in 2023, with 2,535 students, largely due to increased enrollments from the USA (2,045 students).

 

Country-Wise Statistics of International Students in New Zealand (2021–2023)

Below is the breakdown of international student numbers based on their countries of citizenship over the last three years, highlighting trends and shifts in enrollment.

 

Country of citizenship

   

2023

2022

2021

China, People’s Republic of

17,940

17,360

18,125

India

6,985

3,675

6,285

United States of America

2,045

720

735

Philippines

1,630

750

670

Viet Nam

1,315

1,310

1,335

Sri Lanka

1,135

590

725

Malaysia

925

960

1,050

Korea, Republic of (South)

815

825

950

Indonesia

730

620

675

Japan

700

465

475

    

 

Key Observations

  1. China
    • Continues to dominate as the top contributor, with 17,940 students in 2023.
    • A slight increase from 2022 but still lower than the pre-pandemic levels in 2021.
  2. India
    • Strong recovery in 2023 with 6,985 students, nearly doubling from 2022 levels.
    • This increase indicates renewed interest in New Zealand as a destination for Indian students.
  3. United States of America
    • Remarkable growth in 2023, with 2,045 students, a 184% rise from 720 in 2022.
  4. Philippines
    • Consistent growth, reaching 1,630 students in 2023.
  5. Viet Nam and Sri Lanka
    • Steady numbers over the years, with Viet Nam maintaining around 1,300 students annually.
    • Sri Lanka shows growth from 590 in 2022 to 1,135 in 2023.
  6. Malaysia and Korea
    • Numbers have seen minor fluctuations, with Malaysia and South Korea contributing steadily to the student population.
  7. Japan and Indonesia
    • Both countries exhibit a gradual recovery in enrollments.
    • Japan grew from 465 students in 2022 to 700 in 2023, while Indonesia rose to 730 in 2023 from 620 in 2022.

Conclusion

The data highlights New Zealand’s resilience in attracting international students post-pandemic, with Asia continuing to dominate the landscape. Growth in master’s programs and increased participation from North America and Europe signify a positive trajectory. However, consistent efforts in promoting diverse qualification pathways and improving affordability will be key to sustaining these trend.

Reference

1. https://www.educationcounts.govt.nz/statistics/tertiary-participation

Erik Murthy

Abhay Kumar

Abhay is the Head of Digital Marketing at ICL, bringing a wealth of experience and a data-driven approach to strategy. He holds a master’s degree in Management and has a deep understanding of New Zealand’s immigration process. His passion for content writing and reading enhances his ability to connect meaningfully with our audience.

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