The number of Indian students choosing New Zealand and Australia for higher education is on a sharp upward trajectory, signaling a major shift in global study preferences. A recent report by global student housing platform University Living reveals that Indian student enrolments in New Zealand have surged by 48.9% since 2021 and are poised to nearly double by 2030.
The report, Beyond Beds and Benches – Decoding ANZ’s Education System, paints a promising picture of the Oceania region’s international education landscape. From 2.1 million international students in 2015, the region now hosts 2.3 million, with India emerging as one of the top contributors.
Australia has also witnessed steady growth, recording a 9.2% rise in Indian student enrolments between 2021 and 2024. Together, international students contributed NZD 4.4 billion to New Zealand’s economy and AUD 47.8 billion to Australia’s in the 2023–2024 period, underlining the economic significance of the sector.
University Living’s Founder and CEO, Saurabh Arora, attributes the surge to recent policy changes that have made studying abroad more accessible and beneficial. “New Zealand’s simplified visa processes, generous work-rights policies, and the launch of NZD 10,000 scholarships for top-performing Indian students reflect the country’s proactive approach to attracting talent,” Arora said.
The data supports this optimism. Enrolments from India in New Zealand are projected to rise by a staggering 93.9% between 2025 and 2030, jumping from 22,225 to 42,594 students. Australia is expected to host over 101,552 Indian students by 2025, cementing its status as a global education leader.
Vik Singh, Trade and Investment Commissioner for South Asia at Austrade, highlighted Australia’s emphasis on a seamless education-to-employment journey. “Australia offers not only top-tier universities and inclusive learning environments but also robust post-study work options. We are committed to global collaboration and student success,” Singh said.
Both nations are aligning their education offerings with industry needs, particularly in the STEM, healthcare, and business sectors, to improve graduate employability. This strategic alignment is helping Australia and New Zealand emerge as serious contenders to traditional destinations like the US, UK, and Canada.
Moreover, the growth in international student numbers is fuelling demand for student accommodation, a trend noted by Saurabh Arora. “As enrolments grow, so does the need for quality housing, further solidifying Australia and New Zealand’s roles as global education hubs,” he said.
As international education continues to evolve, Australia and New Zealand are making clear moves to attract and retain global talent—offering not just degrees, but pathways to vibrant futures.
