StudyLink

StudyLink provides financial support to students, and connects them with the information they need to make informed study decisions. As a student, you can apply for a Student Loan with StudyLink, which helps you pay for course fees, study materials, and living costs.

How to get a StudyLink student loan

To get a Student Loan, you need to be either:

• a New Zealand citizen or
• ordinarily resident in New Zealand and either:
  • have been living in New Zealand for at least 3 years, and
  • have held a residence class visa for 3 years, or
  • be a refugee or protected person, or
  • be sponsored into New Zealand by someone in your family who, at the time you were sponsored, was a refugee or protected person.

You have to study an approved course run by an approved education provider.

Student Loan vs Student Allowance

Through StudyLink, you can get a Student Loan and/or you may be eligible for a Student Allowance. Unlike the Student Loan, you don't need payback the Student Allowance. Find out more about the difference between the two in the below video, or head straight to StudyLink's website. 

When to apply for a student loan

If you need a student loan and/or student allowance, please contact StudyLink as soon as possible – even before you know what course you’re studying. You can apply online and the application takes about 30 minutes to complete.

StudyLink can also help you with:

• childcare
• costs if you have a disability
• housing and accommodation costs
• money if you're on a study break

For more information on financial support during study, contact StudyLink at 0800 88 99 00 or head to  www.studylink.govt.nz.