New Zealand has received an overwhelmingly positive review from international students, with a record 41% rating their experience as “excellent”. The 2024 International Student Experience Survey, which gathered responses from nearly 5,000 students showed an 86% overall positive rating, a 2% increase from last year.
Education New Zealand‘s acting chief executive, Linda Sissons, celebrated the results, highlighting the sector’s ongoing recovery and ability to deliver a high-quality experience. Students praised the country’s people and connections with 90% rating this aspect positively, indicating strong bonds between students and New Zealanders.
The survey also showed high satisfaction with education experience (87%), making study arrangements (87%), arrival and orientation (85%), and living experience (83%). Education agents were also commended with 84% of students positively rating their knowledge and application process support.
This endorsement comes as New Zealand’s international education sector aims to increase its economic contribution to $4.4 billion by 2027. The sector has already shown significant recovery with a 511% increase in international students in 2023, nearing pre-pandemic numbers.
The positive feedback from students is a testament to New Zealand’s attractiveness as a study destination, which offers a unique and enriching experience that fosters lasting connections. As the sector continues to grow, it’s clear that New Zealand is a preferred choice for international students seeking a high-quality education and life experience.