Changes to Fees Free
The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.
What is Fees Free?
Fees Free tertiary education and training is a policy introduced in 2018 to expand participation in tertiary education and reduce student debt in New Zealand. It is targeted towards first-time learners.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner, you may be able to get up to $12,000 of your fees covered for one year’s study or two years’ training. If you are eligible, we’ll organise payment of your fees with the Tertiary Education Commission.
How do I check if I can get Fees Free study or training?
Click here and enter your National Student Number (NSN) to find out your eligibility status and if you need to take any next steps.
If you can’t remember your NSN, you can request it from NZQA here.
You’ll also need to check that the course or training programme you’re enrolling in is covered by Fees Free. Ask the organisation who runs it whether it is, or find the course and programme eligibility criteria on the Fees Free website.
What does Fees Free cover?
- Tuition fees, and;
- Compulsory course costs, and;
- Student services fees.
If you’re doing provider-based study, you may also be able to get a Student Loan to help with course related and living costs. For more information on Student Loans and Allowances visit Studylink.
If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with our amazing Future Student Advisors to help.
