A survey of new students at a regional polytechnic in New Zealand found an ethnic dimension to typical decision-making influences. Maori students ranked the importance of student loans and allowances higher than non-Maori students. Maori students were more influenced by polytechnic graduates and the people they work with than were non-Maori students. The differences between Maori and non-Maori respondents suggest how polytechnics might appeal to prospective Maori students.

Keywords: ethnicity, student decision-making, student loans