Global education company Keystone Education Group has announced the launch of its Enrolment Services division in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, marking a major step in its regional expansion. The move is anchored by a new partnership with the University of Waikato, aimed at strengthening international student recruitment, engagement and conversion through data-led strategies and behavioural insight.
The partnership is the company’s first in New Zealand and aligns closely with the government’s Going for Growth strategy, which targets 119,000 international enrolments by 2034. It brings the expertise of UniQuest—the UK’s leading student enquiry management and conversion specialist, acquired by Keystone in 2021—under the new Enrolment Services brand.
Keystone’s expansion comes at a time when universities are navigating complex policy settings, fluctuating demand, and heightened student expectations. The company’s model combines dedicated teams, tailored communication strategies and technology platforms to help institutions deliver more responsive and effective engagement with prospective students.
Rachel Fletcher, CEO of Keystone Enrolment Services and co-founder of UniQuest, said she was particularly proud to see a New Zealand institution leading the way. “As a Kiwi, I’m especially proud that the University of Waikato is our first partner in New Zealand,” Fletcher said. “Waikato’s willingness to innovate and invest in new approaches to student engagement sets a strong example for the sector and reflects the ambition behind New Zealand’s Going for Growth strategy.”
Fletcher said her team will operate as an extension of the university’s recruitment function, “turning student enquiries into enrolments through responsive engagement and behavioural insight.”
The University of Waikato sees the partnership as an opportunity to strengthen its internal capability and diversify its international student community.
Sharon Calvert, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (International, Engagement and Partnerships), said Keystone’s approach complements the university’s focus on quality engagement.
“From the outset, the Keystone team impressed us with their sector insight, innovative approach, and commitment to partnership,” Calvert said. “Their model integrates seamlessly with our operations and reflects the high standards we set for student engagement and conversion.”
Keystone’s Enrolment Services division is designed to help universities meet growing expectations for fast, accurate and personalised communication. With students now engaging with universities much like they do with other brands, responsiveness and authenticity have become critical in influencing study decisions.
“We’re focused on helping institutions engage prospective students with speed, relevance and clarity,” Fletcher said. “By combining experienced teams with data-led strategies, we ensure every student receives the attention they need to make informed decisions – and no opportunity is missed.”
Through the partnership, Keystone and the University of Waikato aim to deliver a world-class experience for international students, combining behavioural insight, sector expertise and technology to guide students through every step of their decision-making journey.
