New Zealand eyes Indian students with scholarships, easier visas & work rights

As major study destinations tighten visa norms and raise tuition fees, New Zealand is emerging as a compelling alternative for Indian students.

With student enrolments recovering post-pandemic, the country is leveraging scholarships, streamlined visa policies and strong post-study work opportunities to attract global talent, according to student housing marketplace University Living’s Beyond Beds & Benches-Decoding ANZ’s Education System report released on Tuesday.

The sector peaked at 120,000 students in 2019 and saw numbers drop to 50,000 in 2021 due to Covid-19. However, projections indicate a recovery to 95,000–100,000 students by the end of 2024, reinforcing New Zealand’s status as an education hub.


"New Zealand’s streamlined visa processes and work rights policies, along with the recently announced NZ$10,000 scholarships for high-achieving Indian students, reflect the government’s commitment to global talent," said Saurabh Arora, founder, University Living.

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The influx of international students plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s economy, with the sector contributing NZ$5.1 billion in 2019. Although the figure dipped during the pandemic, it is expected to reach NZ$4.5 billion in 2024, underscoring the sector’s slow recovery.

Beyond economic benefits, New Zealand’s government is actively diversifying its student base, reducing reliance on China and India by expanding recruitment efforts in Vietnam and the Philippines. This move is expected to stabilise student numbers and drive long-term growth.

New Zealand’s affordability compared to countries like the US, the UK and Australia is another strong pull factor. The report highlights that lower tuition fees and living costs make it an attractive choice for Indian students seeking high-quality education without excessive financial strain.

To further incentivise Indian students, New Zealand has introduced NZ$10,000 scholarships for high-achieving applicants. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader push to attract skilled talent and strengthen its workforce in key sectors.

Another major draw for Indian students is New Zealand’s student-friendly visa policies and post-study work opportunities. Unlike Canada and Australia, which have introduced caps on international student intake, New Zealand encourages skilled migration by offering work rights post-graduation.

The report highlights that many international graduates transition into New Zealand’s workforce, filling critical skill gaps in industries like healthcare, IT, and engineering. These sectors have seen sustained demand, making it easier for graduates to secure employment and long-term career prospects.

With Indian student enrolments projected to grow by 93.9% from 2021 to 2030—from 12,686 to 24,594 students—New Zealand is establishing itself as a top study-abroad destination, according to the report.