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International student enrolments are continuing to rise in New Zealand, supported by strong public confidence in the international education sector. From January to August 2025, New Zealand institutions enrolled 85,535 international students โ a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This figure has already surpassed the entire total recorded for 2024, with every sub-sector reporting year-on-year gains.
Universities remain the top destination, welcoming 36,045 international students โ up 15% from last year. Schools hosted 18,505 students, representing 10% growth. The most significant expansion occurred in government-funded private training establishments (PTEs), where enrolments surged by 33% to reach 12,060. English-language providers also saw modest improvement with a 7% rise to 7,570 students.
China is still the dominant source market, accounting for 35% of all international enrolments. Nearly 30,000 Chinese students are currently in New Zealand โ 4% more than in 2024, building on strong growth in previous years. India contributes 14% of total enrolments, with close to 12,000 Indian students โ a stable figure after dramatic increases in 2023 and 2024. Chinese students typically choose universities, while Indian students are more evenly distributed across vocational and higher education pathways.
Universities remain the top destination, welcoming 36,045 international students โ up 15% from last year. Schools hosted 18,505 students, representing 10% growth. The most significant expansion occurred in government-funded private training establishments (PTEs), where enrolments surged by 33% to reach 12,060. English-language providers also saw modest improvement with a 7% rise to 7,570 students.
China is still the dominant source market, accounting for 35% of all international enrolments. Nearly 30,000 Chinese students are currently in New Zealand โ 4% more than in 2024, building on strong growth in previous years. India contributes 14% of total enrolments, with close to 12,000 Indian students โ a stable figure after dramatic increases in 2023 and 2024. Chinese students typically choose universities, while Indian students are more evenly distributed across vocational and higher education pathways.
Public support remains strong as well. ENZโs latest survey reveals that 77% of New Zealanders would like the same or more international students in the country โ a level of support notably higher than in Australia or the UK. Ms Malu stressed that this ongoing public backing reflects the positive impact international students have on New Zealandโs communities and global outlook.
