Study in New Zealand as a domestic student
In New Zealand, there is a difference between an international student and a domestic student. Your status is determined by the type of visa you hold.
Temporary visa holders
Dependent children of temporary visa holders at early childhood level (before 5) can go to kindergarten on a dependent child visitor visa. Dependent children of certain temporary visa holders at primary or secondary level, need a student visa but will in most cases be deemed domestic students: they can study fee free at any public school in New Zealand.
Adult students studying at tertiary level need a residence-class visa or an international student visa, unless they hold a temporary visa that allows for short term study (usually 3 to 6 months).
Residence visa holders
Interest-free student loan
To qualify for an interest-free student loan, you also must have lived in New Zealand on a residence-class visa, for 3 years.
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Fee-free first year of study
Fees Free is a fund designed for first-time tertiary learners in New Zealand. It may cover fees for one year of study or two years of work-based training, up to a certain amount. The fund is paid directly to your tertiary education organization, which could be a university, Te Pūkenga, a private training establishment, or a wānanga. This includes both provider- and work-based study or training at Levels 3 and above on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
In 2023, the Government changed the Fees Free scheme, transitioning from a first-year Fees Free scheme to a final-year Fees Free scheme starting effective since January 2025.
Work while studying
