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COST OF STUDY
It is no secret that attending university is a huge financial commitment that can cost thousands of dollars. University fees and living costs are expensive, however there is help available to make that investment in your future a bit easier. Start by checking out our Scholarships database and Māori Support section to see how you can score some extra putea.
So, let’s break down the main costs you’ll have when you study and how you can pay for them.
Compulsory Course fees for your final year of study (up to $12,000) are paid by the government as a part of their Fees Free tertiary education and training.
You do not need to apply to Studylink to access Fees Free. You can confirm your eligibility for Fees Free by entering your National Student Number (NSN) on the Fees Free homepage – here.
Once your course fees are paid you’ll need to make sure you have all the right gear for your course, like a laptop, text books, stationery, and other resources. Your course coordinator and/or formal acceptance letter from your tertiary institute should tell you what else you will need for your papers and then you should be able calculate your course-related costs in advance.
You can apply for up to $1000 per year from StudyLink which is added to your Student Loan. Check out this link for more information – Student Loan course-related costs
Check out FaceBook Market place, TradeMe and notice boards around campus to see if anyone is selling second-hand text books or stationery. Some of the textbooks you will be recommend to purchase will be hundreds of dollars and are exactly the same as their second-hand twins just a lot cheaper! Check out your local and university library to see if you can borrow text books for free!
If you need help in your studies reach out to our Kia Ora Hauora Programme Manager.
A Student Allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you’re studying. It does not have to be paid back, nor does it get added to your student loan.
The amount you receive is calculated based on your parents’ combined income. It is also important to note that any extra money you earn up to $270.10 (before tax) a week and does not affect your allowance. Anything you earn over $270.10(before tax) a week is taken off your Student Allowance payment dollar for dollar.
Check out the different payment rates and criteria: Student Allowance
Living costs are paid from the beginning of the first semester (around March) to the end of the second semester at the end of the year (around November). You even get paid during the mid-term holidays and in between semesters.
For some, you may be eligible for a mixture of support. Depending on how much Student Allowance you receive, you may be eligible to get living costs as well. It can be complicated so if you are unsure about using the online application form give StudyLink a call on 0800 88 99 00 Monday to Friday 7am to 9pm.
Don’t let all these costs freak you out! It may feel like it’s expensive when you start off, but remember – it will pay off in the long run. Work out how much your degree is really worth by using the Get Sorted website with student loan guides and budgeting guides – you will be amazed how much your investment will pay off in the long run!