International Students Throng Auckland: Why?

how many international students are in auckland

Auckland is a popular destination for international students, contributing significantly to the region's economy. International education is a key priority for Auckland, with the sector experiencing record enrolments and generating substantial revenue. According to reports, international student enrolments in Auckland universities increased by 7% compared to 2017, with the University of Auckland enrolling 5391 foreign students in 2021. The University also retained a large number of international students during the pandemic, with many choosing to study remotely from overseas. Overall, Auckland's international student population has grown, making it a diverse and vibrant hub for higher education.

Characteristics Values
Number of international students in Auckland in 2015 Record numbers
Number of international students in Auckland universities in 2019 31,529
Number of international students at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) 3,430
Number of international students at the University of Auckland in 2021 5,391

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The University of Auckland enrolled 5391 foreign students in 2021

The University of Auckland's success in attracting international students is part of a broader trend in the region. In 2015, Auckland attracted record numbers of international students, with a 13% increase in enrolments compared to 2014. International students contributed NZ$1.5 billion to the Auckland economy in 2015, and this value has continued to increase annually. International education is New Zealand's fifth-largest export category, and the country has seen growing recognition of the benefits of international education in recent years.

The University of Auckland's ability to retain international students during the pandemic is notable. In 2021, 30% of the university's international students studied remotely from overseas, with many based in learning centres in China and Vietnam. The university's strong performance in international student enrolments contributed to its financial health, generating a surplus of NZ$133 million in 2021.

However, the University of Auckland has also faced challenges due to the pandemic. Online learning created inequities in the education sector, hindering the ability of some students to participate fully. Despite the record enrolments in 2021, the university anticipated a decline in international student numbers due to border restrictions and immigration settings. The university expected softening demand from domestic students and projected a more modest operating surplus of 1.4% for 2022.

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International students are worth over $1.5 billion to Auckland's economy

International students are a significant contributor to Auckland's economy, bringing in over $1.5 billion annually. This figure has been increasing each year, with international student enrolments up 13% in 2015 compared to 2014. Auckland continues to be the top choice for international students, holding a 62% market share. The University of Auckland, for example, enrolled 5391 foreign students in 2021, a notable increase from previous years.

The impact of international students on Auckland's economy extends beyond tuition fees. These students also contribute to the city's economy through their daily expenses, such as accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment. Their presence boosts various industries and creates job opportunities for locals.

The value of international education is recognised by Auckland Tourism, Events, and Economic Development (ATEED), which has made it a key priority. ATEED's General Manager, Vivien Bridgwater, acknowledged the positive impact of international students, stating that their presence benefits not just Auckland but also the entire country.

The University of Auckland's success in attracting international students has resulted in a multi-million-dollar surplus. This surplus is crucial for the university's financial stability and enables further investments in enhancing the student experience, marketing Auckland as a study destination, and developing new educational products.

International students bring cultural diversity and a global perspective to Auckland. Their presence provides an opportunity for locals to establish connections with people from different backgrounds and fosters a more inclusive and cosmopolitan environment. The economic impact of international students in Auckland highlights the city's appeal as a study destination and reinforces the importance of the international education sector to the local economy.

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International student enrolments grew by 13% in 2015

International student enrolments in Auckland grew by 13% in 2015, according to the latest findings in Education New Zealand's International Education Snapshot. This growth was observed across almost all education sectors in the region. The increase in international student enrolments contributed to the region's economic growth, with international education being New Zealand's fifth-largest export category.

Auckland has consistently been a top choice for international students, holding a significant market share of 62% in 2015. The city's reputation as a desirable study destination is further bolstered by its ability to retain international students, many of whom chose to continue their studies remotely during the pandemic.

The University of Auckland, for example, enrolled 5391 foreign students in 2021, reflecting the continued appeal of the city to international students. Additionally, Auckland University of Technology (AUT) has also attracted international students, with 3,430 students from 96 countries as of June 2024.

The presence of international students in Auckland brings not only economic benefits but also cultural exchange opportunities for locals. According to a perceptions survey, 58% of New Zealanders acknowledged the positive contribution of international education to the country, and 51% recognised its regional impact.

Overall, the growth in international student enrolments in Auckland, exemplified by the 13% increase in 2015, highlights the city's attractiveness as a study destination and its ability to sustain this appeal over the years.

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58% of New Zealanders believe international education benefits the country

New Zealand's international education sector is booming, with enrolments from international students just 7% below pre-pandemic levels as of 2024. This is a significant improvement from 2021, when enrolments were down by 5391 foreign students compared to 2019. The University of Auckland, New Zealand's largest research organisation, is a major contributor to this success.

The country's international education sector is highly regarded globally, with New Zealand being a part of two important international qualification recognition treaties: the Lisbon Recognition Convention and the Tokyo Recognition Convention. The University of Auckland is ranked 65th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, with seven other New Zealand universities also making it to the top 250. The country's universities offer world-class education at affordable prices, with numerous scholarships available specifically for international students.

The work-life balance in New Zealand is also a major draw for international students, with the country ranking first in the Global Life-Work Balance Index 2024 by Remote. The country's culture encourages students to explore the outdoors and take time for themselves, with universities even building "well-being week" into their calendars.

It is no surprise, then, that 58% of New Zealanders believe international education benefits the country. International students are recognised for bringing cultural and economic benefits to New Zealand. In 2016, only 57% believed that international students contributed to the economy and economic growth, but this perception has improved over time. In a separate survey, 80% of respondents highlighted the economic benefits brought by international students, and 81% said that international students helped local students learn about other cultures and ways of living.

While there have been concerns about the impact of international students on the job market for New Zealanders, this perception is changing. The ratio of respondents who believe that international students make it harder for New Zealanders to get jobs has fallen from 34% in 2018 to 24% in 2023.

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Auckland University of Technology has 3430 international students from 96 countries

Auckland is a popular destination for international students, with international education being New Zealand's fifth-largest export category. The city has attracted record numbers of international students, and enrolments have been increasing year on year.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a key contributor to these numbers, with 3430 international students from 96 countries. AUT was established in 2000 and has since grown to become one of the world's best modern universities. Ranked in the top 100 young universities and among the top 1% of universities worldwide, AUT boasts a diverse and global community.

The university's international student population adds to the cultural richness of the campus and brings a range of perspectives to the classroom. With students from nearly a hundred different countries, AUT offers a unique learning environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding and a global outlook. The university also generates significant revenue from international student fees, contributing to its overall financial health.

The presence of international students in Auckland brings numerous benefits to the city and the country. International education provides economic advantages, with international students contributing over $1.5 billion to the Auckland economy annually. Additionally, it gives New Zealanders the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and learn about different cultures. According to a perceptions survey, 58% of New Zealanders believe that international education positively impacts the country, and 51% see positive contributions at the regional level.

Overall, the high number of international students at AUT and in Auckland reflects the city's and the university's global appeal and reputation for academic excellence.

Frequently asked questions

In 2021, there were 5391 international students enrolled at the University of Auckland.

The number of international students in 2021 was 500 more than in 2020 and only 63 less than in 2019.

30% of international students at the University of Auckland studied remotely from overseas, with many based in learning centres in China and Vietnam.

In 2019, there were 31,529 international students studying across universities in Auckland.

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