Source: Tertiary Education Commission
Fees Free Tertiary Education and Training was introduced on 1 January 2018 for first-time tertiary learners in their first year of provider-based study or their first two years of work-based learning.
The policy supports the Government’s commitment to make tertiary education and training affordable for all, by:
improving affordability and reducing debt levels
expanding access and participation, especially for those who have not previously studied or those for whom finance has been a real barrier to participation
supporting lifelong learning
ensuring the benefits of tertiary education for New Zealanders, including residents with an ongoing commitment to New Zealand, are shared through a highly skilled population contributing to a strong society and thriving economy.
Fees Free is one of more than 75 initiatives included in the 2019 Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy.
Information about Fees Free
Payments and reporting – Fees Free – how we make payments and how you report to us
Eligibility criteria and what Fees Free covers – the Fees Free eligibility criteria, how to check learners’ eligibility, and what fees the policy covers
Fees Free interactions with other funds – how Fees Free interacts with the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) and Youth Guarantee (YG), as well as student loans, student allowance and scholarships
Statutory declarations – Fees Free – what to tell learners about finding out their eligibility
Learner marketing toolkit – Fees Free – material for tertiary education organisations, targeted at learners starting study or training in 2024
Carrying over Fees Free entitlement – how learners can use their Fees Free entitlement across years
Guidance – Fees Free – FAQs, information guides and other resources to help you understand Fees Free
Who to contact
If you have any questions, please contact your Relationship Manager or Advisor, or the Customer Contact Group on 0800 601 301 or customerservice@tec.govt.nz.
For information on Fees Free for learners, see FeesFree.govt.nz. Learners can also call 0800 601 301 or email customerservice@tec.govt.nz.