Fees-Free Support

If you are planning to study at level 3 and above, you may be eligible for fees free support.

From January 1, 2018 all students who are new to tertiary education, or returning students, who have not enrolled in more than half a year of full time study, may be eligible for fees-free support.

If you are planning to study at level 3 and above, you may be eligible for fees free support if:

• you are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
• you no longer attend secondary school
• you have not previously enrolled in more than 60 credits at level 3 and above.

Am I eligible?

To receive Fees Free, you must meet the eligibility criteria for the type of study or training you wish to enrol in. The course or programme you are enrolled in also needs to be eligible for Fees Free. Provider-based study refers to courses where you are studying on campus, or online. Check the 2023 learner eligibility criteria for provider-based study here.

You will need to input your National Student Number (NSN). If you do not know your (NSN), you can contact your school, or the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) on 0800 697 296 (between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday) or by email through the NZQA website. 

What does fees-free support cover?

The support covers tuition fees, associated mandatory fees and compulsory student services fees, up to a value of $12,000 for one year of full time study. Payment of fees-free support is made directly to the tertiary provider.

Will I use up my fees-free support if my Te Wānanga o Aotearoa programme is free?

No. As of the 1 January 2023, if your course at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa does not have fees or compulsory course costs then you will not use up your fees free entitlement.

What if I have already paid my fees and then find out that I am eligible for fees-free support?

If you have paid your fees, or StudyLink have paid the fees, then we find out that you are eligible for fees-free support, we will refund your fees to the source of the payment.

If you have any further questions you will find the answers at feesfree.govt.nz.