International students positive

A major university survey has found international students have a positive experience in New Zealand, but they may not recommend it to others.

Education New Zealand today released the findings from the UK-based International Graduate Insight Group's comparative survey.

The survey compared the responses of over 3800 international students, in five New Zealand universities, with tens of thousands of responses from students all over the world.

Education New Zealand chief executive Robert Stevens said international students were very satisfied with their experience in New Zealand, and in particular, their education.

"New Zealand comes out of the largest international comparison ever undertaken amongst international students with a glowing record. Satisfaction ratings were higher than international averages across a range of key indicators, including teaching, staff expertise, safety and cost."

The study found that New Zealand was well ahead of the global benchmark in areas such as living costs and support, but behind in areas such as student unions and internet access.

Seventy per cent of respondents from New Zealand would recommend their university to others, compared with 83 per cent of respondents abroad.

The report issued by Education New Zealand cited this as the most concerning of the results.

"There are a couple of clouds in this generally blue sky," Mr Stevens said.

"The rate of further study engagement was lower than for other countries, and a lower than average number said they would refer New Zealand to others. This may reflect the continuing challenge we have to position New Zealand as a first choice destination – the good news is that if we are selected, then we are significantly better than average."

- NZPA