1000 overseas students set to return - but is the cost too high?

Earlier this month the government announced it would allow 1000 international tertiary students back to study in New Zealand - but there are concerns the cost of returning will put them off.

The border exemption will allow students who had studied here in 2019 or 2020 to return in stages, with priority given to those closest to graduation. In announcing the decision Education Minister Chris Hipkins said the economic value of the group returning to New Zealand would be about $49m  - including $27m in tuition fees.

But he also said the expectation is that returnees meet their own MIQ costs, as well have $20-thousand dollars to support themselves - which is an increase on the $15-thousand that was previously required.

Kathryn discusses this with Afiqah Ramizi, NZ International Students Association President and chief executive of Universities New Zealand, Chris Whelan.