Fees Free Tertiary Education and Training was introduced on 1 January 2018 for first-time tertiary students or trainees in their first year of provider-based study, or first two years of work-based learning.

The policy supports the Government’s commitment to make tertiary education and training affordable for all by:

1. improving affordability and reducing debt levels;
2. expanding access and participation, especially for those who have not previously studied or those for whom finance has been a real barrier to participation;
3. supporting lifelong learning;
4. 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 Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy, which was launched in 2019.

All about Fees Free

Payments and reporting – all about payments and tips on Fees Free reporting

Eligibility criteria and what Fees Free covers – the Fees Free eligibility criteria, how to check learners’ eligibility and which fees are covered by the policy

Interactions with other funds - information about how Fees Free interacts with the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) and Youth Guarantee (YG).

Statutory declarations – what to tell learners about eligibility and Student Loans

Learner marketing toolkit – material for tertiary education organisations, targeted at learners starting study or training in 2023

Carrying over of Fees Free entitlement – how learners can use their Fees Free entitlement across years

Guidance – FAQs, information guides and other resources to help you understand Fees Free

UFS and 2023 changes – information about the impacts of the Unified Funding System and changes to the Fees Free policy for 2023

Who to contact

The Customer Contact Group is available to answer Fees Free queries, via 0800 601 301 or customerservice@tec.govt.nz. You can also contact your relationship manager or advisor.

Please direct learners to the feesfree.govt.nz website for information. They can also call 0800 601 301 or email customerservice@tec.govt.nz for help.