New Zealand has unveiled a comprehensive 10-year strategy to double the value of its international education sector by 2034, as new figures show a strong rebound in student enrolments.

The ‘International Education Going for Growth Plan”, released by education minister Erica Stanford, aims to increase the sector’s contribution to the economy from NZ$3.6 billion (Rs.18,720 crore) in 2024 to NZ$7.2 billion within a decade. The strategy — which aims to establish New Zealand as “the destination of choice for international students” — comes as other rival countries tighten rules around overseas enrolments.

New data from Education New Zealand (ENZ) show that international student full-year enrolments for 2024 are up 21 percent on 2023 levels. The total now stands at 72 percent of the equivalent pre-pandemic figures in 2019.

Growth has been recorded across all areas, with Master’s enrolments going up by 68 percent year-on-year. Recent figures showed New Zealand (pop. 5.3 million) universities achieved record revenue from international tuition fees last year. The country’s new plan hopes to extend this further, targeting a rise in student numbers from 83,400 in 2024 to 105,000 by 2027 and 119,000 by 2034.

Several policy changes have been announced, including, from November 2025, eligible international students being allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during study, an increase from the current 20-hour limit. In-study work rights will also be extended to all tertiary students in approved exchange or study abroad programmes, including those enrolled for just one semester.

According to ENZ chief executive Amanda Malu the latest figures reflect a strong recovery. “This rebound shows we’re on the right track. With the new growth plan in place, we’re focused on maintaining quality while expanding our reach,” says Malu.