New Zealand to Attract 30,000+ International Students by 2034

• NZ targets 119K foreign students by 2034 with relaxed policies.
• New visas, AI support, and agent networks to aid recruitment.
• Global branding to position NZ as a top-tier study hub

New Zealand is taking the plunge towards doubling the value of its international education industry by 2034, and that value is NZ$7.2 billion—essentially doubling from NZ$3.6 billion value in 2024.. The government plans, announced on July 14 by Education Minister Erica Stanford, provides a roadmap to achieve a target of over 30,000 additional international students for New Zealand education over the next decade: moving enrolments from 83,400 in 2024 to 119,000 in 2034.

To "supercharge" this growth, the government is implementing a range of important initiatives to make New Zealand a more attractive destination for international learners. One of the most significant steps, is expanding in-study work rights for international students studying on approved exchange and Study Abroad programmes. This should make studying in New Zealand more affordable and attractive to prospective applicants.

The government will review the student visa process by looking at how assessment processes are applied and considering options for multi-year visas for students at long-term study programmes. Also, a new post-study work visa, for six months, will be available for graduates of sub-degree programmes so they to contribute to New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa programme.

Also Read: UK eVisas Replace Physical Stickers for Students from July 15

In addition to changes in policy, the government would like to increase the global awareness of New Zealand as a destination for study. The aim is to have global awareness of 40% in 2024 and 44% by 2034, and increase the percentage of students who rank New Zealand as their top three from 18% to 22%. A global branding campaign will draw attention to New Zealand's pitch for high-quality institutions, immersive student experiences, and high employability.

Education New Zealand will invest promotional time and energy into high growth markets and will release country specific strategies for each education subsector. At the operational level, the country will commence a recruitment infrastructure, beginning with a model agent network and training and connecting the agents.

Education New Zealand will reinforce its efficiency and support for prospective students and global partners, with an upgraded AI-enabled platform for 24/7 support. The AI system will provide engaged and timely relevant information and will consider prospective student values, quality assurance and comparison.