New Zealand is taking in more international students than before the pandemic, but polytechs and schools are missing out.

The number of study visas issued in the past eight months is up 10 percent on 2019 figures.

Education New Zealand says visa approvals for universities have increased, but visa approvals for schools and polytechs have halved.

Spokesperson Geoff Bilbrough told Kate Hawkesby there is not one clear reason for this, and students look at many international factors.

He says New Zealand universities rank highly on the global stage, making it an attractive option for families.

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