International students are increasingly drawn to New Zealand, not only for its world-class education but also for the high levels of satisfaction it offers across the student experience. The latest data from the 2024 International Student Experience Survey, released by Education New Zealand (ENZ), demonstrates this appeal.
With 86% of surveyed students rating their overall experience in New Zealand as positive, and a record-breaking 41% giving an "excellent" rating, New Zealand has shown remarkable success in creating a supportive, inclusive, and fulfilling study environment.
Below, we will explore why New Zealand is fast becoming a leading choice for international students, highlighting factors that contribute to the high satisfaction levels and what makes studying here so unique and rewarding. Interested in learning more about how to apply and what you can study? Arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today.
Why New Zealand Has High Student Satisfaction
1. An environment that fosters connections
The survey results show that "People and Connections" scored the highest in student satisfaction, with a 90% positive rating. Students praised New Zealand’s welcoming culture and the ease of forming meaningful relationships, both on campus and in the community. For international students far from home, feeling accepted and supported plays a crucial role in their overall experience. The Kiwi spirit of inclusivity ensures students are made to feel part of the community from the moment they arrive.
A recent study participant noted, "New Zealand has been incredibly welcoming. It’s easy to make friends here, and I’ve felt part of the university and city communities almost immediately.” This sense of community is an invaluable aspect of the study abroad experience, giving students a strong support network to rely on as they pursue their studies.
2. High-quality education inside and outside the classroom
New Zealand’s educational institutions place a strong emphasis on quality teaching and active learning, with 87% of respondents expressing satisfaction with their education experience. Specific aspects such as the supportiveness of teachers (91%), the quality of teaching (88%), and the development of critical thinking skills (87%) were highly rated by students. These statistics reflect New Zealand’s dedication to maintaining high academic standards that equip students with practical skills and knowledge.
Classroom inclusivity also emerged as a top feature, with 86% of students feeling that they were actively involved in class discussions. This is reinforced by New Zealand’s commitment to using up-to-date technology and facilities (85%), providing students with a modern learning environment that enriches their studies.
3. Supportive welcoming experience
Beginning life in a new country can be challenging, but New Zealand’s institutions offer robust support to make this transition smoother. Students reported high satisfaction with “Making Study Arrangements” and “Arrival and Orientation,” both scoring 87% and 85%, respectively. These services, which range from academic guidance to orientation activities and housing support, are designed to ensure students feel comfortable and prepared to start their studies with confidence.
The attention to student onboarding is particularly important in a competitive global education market. From airport pickups to orientation sessions and campus tours, New Zealand’s institutions work hard to ease students into their new lives. ENZ’s Acting Chief Executive Dr Linda Sissons commented, “The significant increase in students rating their New Zealand experience as excellent is a testament to the quality of support we provide.”
4. Cultural experiences
A significant part of studying abroad is the opportunity to explore and live in a new culture. New Zealand’s natural beauty, safe environment, and diverse social scene contribute to an outstanding living experience, scoring 83% satisfaction. Students here enjoy a balance of academic focus and outdoor exploration, as well as access to vibrant cities like Auckland and Wellington, which are known for their cultural events and food scenes.
5. A growing trend of excellence
The 2024 survey revealed a significant leap in students rating their New Zealand experience as "excellent" – a record 41%, up eight points from 2023. This trend is a positive sign of recovery and growth within New Zealand’s international education sector, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels of student satisfaction. This increase highlights New Zealand’s commitment to continuous improvement, striving to meet and exceed the expectations of international students.
Study in New Zealand
New Zealand offers international students a unique combination of high-quality education, cultural experiences, and strong community support. Begin your journey by arranging a free consultation with SI-Global.
