New Zealand to Welcome 30,000+ More International Students: What It Means for You

This initiative aims to:

• Rebuild the international education sector post-COVID
• Strengthen global partnerships and multicultural learning
• Attract skilled, future-ready graduates to fuel the New Zealand economy
• Make New Zealand a leading hub for world-class education in the Southern Hemisphere

For aspiring students, this means a better chance at high-quality academic programs, career pathways, and eventually, permanent residency.

More University Seats & Diverse Program Options

Universities are set to expand offerings across sectors like tech, healthcare, business, arts, and sustainability, ensuring students from all backgrounds find the right fit. As New Zealand universities for international students scale their offerings, students will enjoy more options than ever before.

Better Post-Study Work Rights

Work policies are being revised to extend work hours for students (up to 25 hours/week) and to simplify post-study work visa procedures.

Easier PR Pathways

Skilled migration pathways are being aligned with education goals, meaning graduates may benefit from more streamlined permanent residency options.

More Student Support Services

Institutions are ramping up personalized support-academic help, mentorship, mental health care, and settlement services-for a smoother transition and better student life.

Enhanced Industry-Academic Integration

From tech startups to established firms, partnerships with universities will provide students with live projects, internships, and career-ready training.

According to recent NZ Herald reporting (July 14, 2025), the government is rolling out significant education and immigration reforms, including:

Work Hour Increase for International Students

From November 3, 2025, eligible students can work up to 25 hours/week during semesters (previously 20 hours). This means more financial independence and local work experience.

No More IQA for Indian Students

As of June 23, 2025, Indian degree holders no longer need International Qualification Assessments (IQA) for key visa categories like AEWV, Skilled Migrant Category, and Post-Study Work Visas—speeding up application processes and reducing costs.

AEWV Changes & Median Wage Update

From July 7, 2025, AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa) processes will be simplified, especially for Green List jobs. Also, wage thresholds are increasing from August 18, 2025, aligning with the new median wage of NZD $33.56/hour.

Broader Immigration Reforms

By the end of 2025, New Zealand plans to remove AEWV wage thresholds, reduce experience requirements for lower-skilled workers, and offer new seasonal worker pathways. Interim work rights for applicants will also expand.

New Zealand consistently ranks among the most student-friendly countries in the world. Here’s why:

• All 8 New Zealand universities are ranked in the QS World University Rankings
  
• Inclusive, safe, and multicultural society
• Practical, research-based curriculum
• Strong post-study work visa and PR options
  
• Affordable education with high quality of life
• Ranked among the best universities to study in New Zealand for fields like IT, business, environmental science, and creative arts

These reforms show that New Zealand isn’t just welcoming students-it’s prioritizing them.

As leading New Zealand education consultants, My Study Offers ensures you don’t just get admitted—we help you thrive. Here’s how we support you:

University and course shortlisting tailored to your goals

Assistance with scholarships and funding

Application, SOP, and LOR editing

Visa guidance and mock interview prep

Pre-departure briefings, forex, and insurance

Support for PR planning and post-study work rights

Whether you’re aiming to enroll in the best universities to study in New Zealand or looking for scholarship-backed options, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

This is more than policy-it’s a life-changing opportunity. If you’re ready to study in New Zealand, the country just rolled out the welcome mat for you. And with My Study Offers, your trusted overseas education consultant, you’re already one step ahead.

Book your free counselling session today and take the first step toward a world-class education in New Zealand!