Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

University still needs help despite rise in applications

Updated at 8:12 pm on 19 January 2012

Applications from potential students are higher than at the same time last year, but will not be enough to stave off financial problems, Canterbury University says.

The South Island university has 15% more applications than 2011, but it appears that two important groups - international students and new domestic students - have been put off by earthquakes in Christchurch.

It has been predicting a downturn in enrolments due to the quakes and is encouraged by the number of applications, but is not sure how many will turn into actual enrolments.

Though overall applications are up, applications from new domestic students are 5% lower than last year, while those from international students are down 10%.

The university says that means it still needs financial help from the Government.

Copyright © 2012, Radio New Zealand