
New Zealand has eight universities, all of which are ranked in the top 3% of universities in the world. In 2018, there were 175,240 university students in New Zealand, including 49,400 post-graduate students. In 2021, universities provided tertiary education to over 182,900 students or 142,720 equivalent full-time students. In 2024, enrolments in universities increased by 2.7%, with a 0.4% increase in domestic students and a 14% increase in international students.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of universities | 8 |
| Total number of students enrolled in universities | 182,900 (2021) |
| Number of equivalent full-time students | 142,720 (2021) |
| Number of post-graduate students | 49,400 (2018) |
| Number of graduates per year | 43,000 |
| Percentage of graduates with a bachelor's degree or above | 90% |
| Annual expenditure | $3.5 billion |
| Percentage of New Zealand's gross domestic product | 1.2% |
| Percentage of women enrolled | 55% (2023) |
| Percentage of women in programme completions | 61% (2023) |
| Percentage of women in doctoral completions | 52% (2023) |
| Number of students enrolled in tertiary education providers | 403,340 (2024) |
| Number of domestic students enrolled in tertiary education providers | 351,330 (2024) |
| Number of international students enrolled in tertiary education providers | 52,010 (2024) |
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What You'll Learn
- There were 175,240 university students in New Zealand in 2018
- The number of students enrolled in tertiary education rose by 3.4% from 2023 to 2024
- International student numbers increased by 22% during the same period
- Over 43,000 students graduate from NZ universities annually
- Women represented 55% of all enrolled students at the University of Auckland in 2023

There were 175,240 university students in New Zealand in 2018
New Zealand has eight universities, all of which are ranked in the top 3% of universities worldwide. In 2018, there were 175,240 university students in New Zealand, including 49,400 postgraduate students (29%). Over 43,000 students graduate from New Zealand universities each year, with 90% graduating with a bachelor's degree or higher.
The number of students enrolled in formal study at tertiary providers in New Zealand increased by 3.4% from 2023 to 2024, with a total of 403,340 students in 2024. This increase was driven by a rise in international students, with a 22% increase from 2023 to 2024, and a smaller increase of 1.1% in domestic students over the same period.
In 2024, enrolments in universities increased by 2.7%, with a 0.4% increase in domestic students and a 14% increase in international students. New Zealand universities offer a wide range of study opportunities, and graduates enjoy excellent outcomes, with high completion and employment rates and low rates of underemployment.
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The number of students enrolled in tertiary education rose by 3.4% from 2023 to 2024
New Zealand's eight universities offer a wide range of study opportunities, and all are ranked within the top 3% of universities worldwide. The country's university sector is unique, with all universities being public as of 2024.
In 2021, universities provided tertiary education to over 182,900 students, or 142,720 equivalent full-time students (EFTS). Tertiary education providers in New Zealand include public universities, institutes of technology/polytechnics, and wānanga.
This increase in enrolments was driven by a rise in both domestic and international student numbers. Domestic student enrolments increased by 1.1% (3,960 students), while international student enrolments saw a substantial surge of 22% (9,310 students). The increase in international students indicates a recovery from the pandemic-related disruptions. Additionally, enrolments for male students grew faster than for female students.
When examining specific subsectors, Private Training Establishments experienced the largest increase in international enrolments (58%), followed by Te Pūkenga (21%), and universities (14%). Universities also witnessed a slight increase in domestic student enrolments of 0.4%, while Te Pūkenga saw a smaller increase of 0.1%. These numbers demonstrate the resilience and attractiveness of New Zealand's tertiary education sector, which continues to adapt and thrive despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
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International student numbers increased by 22% during the same period
New Zealand's eight universities offer a wide range of study opportunities, with all institutions ranked within the top 3% of universities worldwide. The university sector in New Zealand has witnessed a notable increase in international student enrolments in recent years. This trend underscores the country's appeal as a global education hub, attracting students from diverse regions and fields.
In 2023, there were approximately 69,000 international student enrolments with New Zealand education providers, according to full-year enrolment data. This remarkable figure represents a significant 67% increase compared to the previous year and a 60% rise from 2019. The surge in international student enrolments is not limited to universities but is also evident across schools and private training institutions, reflecting New Zealand's ability to cater to varying educational needs.
English Language Schools, in particular, experienced a notable boost, with a 511% increase in international enrolments from 2022 to 2023. This dramatic rise underscores the allure of New Zealand as a destination for language learning. The country's reputation for high-quality education, cultural diversity, and strong public support for international students have all contributed to its emergence as a sought-after study destination.
China remains the largest source of international students, contributing 64% of enrolments in 2019. However, India has been steadily catching up, now securing the second-largest spot. New Zealand's ability to attract students from diverse regions, such as India, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, showcases its adaptability and broad appeal.
The increase in international student enrolments has had a positive impact on New Zealand's campuses and communities. International students bring a wealth of cultural diversity, enrich academic environments, and contribute significantly to the country's economic growth. The upward trend in enrolments suggests that New Zealand's reputation as a world-class education hub is likely to continue flourishing in the years to come.
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Over 43,000 students graduate from NZ universities annually
New Zealand is home to eight universities, all of which are ranked within the top 3% of universities in the world. In 2021, these universities provided tertiary education to over 182,900 students, or 142,720 equivalent full-time students.
Each year, over 43,000 students graduate from universities in New Zealand, with 90-95% graduating with a bachelor's degree or above. This makes New Zealand's universities highly successful in terms of qualification completion rates. The high graduate outcomes are also reflected in the employment rates of graduates, with most ending up in degree-level jobs and enjoying high levels of employment throughout their careers.
The large number of graduates each year contributes to the country's growing economy and advancing international education. The Tertiary Education Commission plays a crucial role in this by funding tertiary education, providing information and advice to the government, and monitoring the performance of tertiary education organisations.
The success of New Zealand's universities can be attributed to various factors, including the wide range of study opportunities available, the development of both professional and important life skills, and the high ranking of universities by subject. The universities' commitment to achieving excellent graduate outcomes ensures that a university education is a worthwhile investment for students, as evidenced by the high earning premiums and qualifications that continue to grow as students advance in their careers.
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Women represented 55% of all enrolled students at the University of Auckland in 2023
New Zealand is home to eight universities, all of which are ranked within the top 3% of universities worldwide. In 2021, these universities provided tertiary education to over 182,900 students, or 142,720 equivalent full-time students. The University of Auckland, New Zealand's largest research organisation, is one of these eight universities.
In 2023, women represented 55% of all enrolled students at the University of Auckland. This figure includes both new and continuing students. Women also accounted for 55% of applicants and 59% of applicants to whom an offer was made. The conversion rate from applicant to enrolment for women was 7% higher than the overall average for the university.
The University of Auckland is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for its students and staff. In 2023, around one-third of students identified with diverse communities, including those with disabilities, from the LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+ community, with refugee backgrounds, or with constrained economic backgrounds. The university aims to address gender underrepresentation in academic staff and senior positions, as well as the underrepresentation of men in certain areas of health and education.
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Frequently asked questions
There are eight universities in New Zealand.
In 2024, there were 182,900 students enrolled in universities in New Zealand, including 142,720 equivalent full-time students.
In 2024, there were 52,010 international students enrolled in universities in New Zealand, an increase of 22% from the previous year.











































