How do international students feel about studying in New Zealand?
To find out how our international students are feeling about their experience in New Zealand, we asked for their honest opinions, giving us a real insight into what studying and living in New Zealand is really like.
In our latest International Student Experience Survey (2025), 87% of international students reported a positive experience in New Zealand with 43% describing it as excellent. The positive feedback aligns with a rise in international student enrolments. From January to April, New Zealand institutions welcomed 63,610 international students, a 16% increase compared to 2024. This growth shows that New Zealand is becoming the top choice for students from around the world.
But statistics only tell part of the story. Behind these impressive figures are real students whose lives have been transformed by choosing to study abroad here . So, let’s hear what they have to say and see why studying in New Zealand could be the life-changing experience you’ve been looking for.
Why do international students love living in New Zealand?
According to the survey, connections and friendships come first, 92% of students say the people they meet are a highlight. The welcoming communities, friendly locals, and opportunities to meet people from around the world make living in New Zealand a memorable experience. In fact, 87% rate their overall living experience positively.
Quinn Pham, who studied at Victoria University of Wellington, emphasised the importance of community:
"Moving to New Zealand was a big step since I did not know anyone here, but I have made friends who also transferred here through the joint programme with me. Even though it is a struggle being away from home, I have friends to share the experience with me, which makes it a little bit easier."
How do overseas students rate the quality of education in New Zealand?
International students value the quality of education in New Zealand, with 90% rating it positively. They highlight the supportive faculty, practical learning opportunities, and internationally recognised qualifications. For many, that quality is also reflected in the way teaching is delivered and the encouragement students receive.
Carlos, a Filipino student at a Private Training Establishment in Auckland, highlights the supportive learning environment:
"The types of learning and our tutors allow us to express ourselves, even if we aren’t fluent in English. If you have a thought or an idea, you are encouraged to speak up. There is no criticism or judgement. This environment has really boosted my confidence."
How do international students feel about their arrival, orientation, and settling in New Zealand?
International students report a smooth transition, describing their first days in New Zealand as positive and welcoming, which is reflected in the survey results. In fact, 89% rated their arrival and orientation positively, and 87% found arranging their studies easy. Thanh Ha from Vietnam shares her advice for new students:
"I strongly suggest that new international students make the best out of orientation week – mingle around and get to know the other new students."
You can learn more about orientation and everyday campus life here.
Are international students happy with the visa application process in New Zealand?
Yes, more students are finding it easier to navigate their visa applications. In 2025, 80% of students rated the process positively and 74% were happy with how long it took to receive their visa, a big jump from 64% the previous year. Arina Aizal from the University of Otago explains:
"International students can get advice about visa issues with the visa-on-campus services at the International Office … the support we get as international students is essential for a safe and healthy environment."
Learn more about visa requirements and support for international students here.
Is studying in New Zealand good value for money for international students?
Students feel their investment in New Zealand education is worthwhile. Perceptions of value for money have risen significantly, from 65% in 2024 to 76% in 2025. This increase can be attributed in part to the availability of international student scholarships, which help make studying in New Zealand more accessible. Jennifer, a Digital Marketing student from Brazil, shares:
"Studying in New Zealand has been totally worth it. The education is world-class, but it’s not just about classes, you get to live in an amazing and safe place. On top of that, my degree has opened doors to jobs I never thought I’d have and for me, that's the real value."
Why are more international students choosing New Zealand in 2025?
More students are choosing New Zealand because they see it as a place where education and opportunity come together. Ragavan Rajan, a Master of Information Technology student at the University of Waikato, puts it simply:
"New Zealand is a great place to study because it offers a globally recognised education, and the qualifications are highly valued worldwide. The emphasis on practical learning and work-ready skills makes graduates more competitive in the job market."
The numbers back this up. From January to April 2025, 63,610 international students enrolled, a 16% increase on 2024 and a 49% increase on 2023. Private Training Establishments (PTEs) are leading the way, with enrolments growing 41% year-on-year.
Which countries are international students coming from to study in New Zealand?
New Zealand welcomes students from all over the world. China and India remain the top countries, followed by Japan, South Korea, Sri Lanka, the USA, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Germany. Some countries, like Sri Lanka and Nepal, are seeing particularly strong growth, reflecting New Zealand’s increasing global appeal.
What makes the overall experience of studying in New Zealand so positive?
Looking at the survey results and hearing directly from students, it’s clear that the experience is shaped by a combination of welcoming communities, high-quality education, supportive systems, and an amazing lifestyle. Together, these elements make studying in New Zealand both memorable and life-changing.
Final thoughts
Now back to the original question: how do international students really feel about studying in New Zealand? The answer is clear, they feel welcomed, supported, and inspired. For them, studying in New Zealand is more than just an education destination, it’s an adventure, a chance to grow, and an opportunity to join a community that embraces and supports them, with students consistently describing their time here as life-changing.
So, if you’re already considering New Zealand as your next study destination, there’s no better time to explore what it has to offer. Join the growing number of international students discovering how this experience can transform both your education and your future.
About the contributors
Education New Zealand is a government agency that promotes New Zealand education worldwide and supports international students every step of the way.
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