More than 7,000 prospective students and their whānau came to campus, a 7% increase on last year and the highest turnout yet. The record numbers highlight UC’s strong reputation, employability outcomes, and the nationwide appeal of Ōtautahi Christchurch as a vibrant study destination.
Open Day is UC’s major recruitment event, designed to give visitors a taste of life at one of the world’s top 300 universities (QS). The day offered a full programme of information sessions, campus and hall tours, interactive faculty activations, and live entertainment.
UC’s total student headcount rose 9% in 2024 to 26,433 – around 6.5% of the population of Ōtautahi Christchurch. With students from more than 100 countries, UC is locally engaged, globally connected, and committed to providing an accessible, future-focused education.
Ōtautahi Christchurch’s reputation as a student city is also gaining global recognition, with QS ranking it among the Top 100 Best Student Cities worldwide for 2026. The city’s affordability, safety, and welcoming culture make it an attractive place to live and learn.