Almost half of Charles Darwin University's (CDU) international students would recommend the University to others, the latest results from a global student satisfaction survey have revealed.
The Etio International Student Barometer found CDU achieved a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 30 – with 47 per cent of students speaking positively and advocating for the University – compared to the Australian benchmark of 17.
The NPS identifies the proportion of students who are considered promoters, passive, or detractors when speaking of their experience at university. Only 17 per cent of the surveyed CDU students were considered detractors.
Overall, 90 per cent of CDU's international students were satisfied with the University, with 30 per cent saying they felt very satisfied with their experience.
The survey is released every two years and measures the complete education experience starting from before a student arrives in their host country, their living arrangements and studies, and the career and wellbeing support they receive.
The 2025 results include data from 120 universities across 22 countries, with students from 15 institutions in Australia participating.
A standout feature of CDU's experience for international students was career support, where the University exceeded students' expectations across every measure, including information, advice, training, networking opportunities, placements, and representation.
Overall, 93 per cent of CDU's student felt ready to enter the workforce after graduation – with more than a third saying they felt "very prepared" – compared to the national average of 90 per cent.
For example, just 58 per cent of students expected general career support from CDU, but 80 per cent felt the University satisfied this area. Similarly, where only 48 per cent of students expected to network with alumni, 72 per cent were happy with CDU's opportunities.
CDU Student Council International Officer Bipu Ojha said students often shared their positive experiences of the University, citing a welcoming environment, approachable staff, and a strong sense of community, as well as practical career support through industry events and workshops.
"CDU's strength lies in its student-centred approach – the University listens to student voices and takes action to improve services, whether that's in academic support, career development, or wellbeing," Mr Ojha said.
"As an international student myself, I have had many standout experiences. Receiving the Vice-Chancellor's International Student Scholarship and being recognised at the IT Code Fair have been highlights, but what has resonated most with me is the way CDU integrates academic learning with real-world opportunities.
"I have always felt supported by both staff and peers, and that has helped me grow personally and professionally."
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Scott Bowman said the University's excellent rankings would play a critical role in CDU's continued efforts to attract international students to the Northern Territory.
"When international students leave their home countries in pursuit of education, they trust places like CDU to guide them in this unfamiliar land and systems," Professor Bowman said.
"Feedback from students is critical to ensure we're providing them with ample support, services, and opportunities, and these results show CDU's commitment to a positive and productive experience for international students.
"Our world-class educators will use this data to continue giving our international students a high-quality and unique learning experience, one you won't find with any other institution."
