Need help covering your study costs? You may be able to get a student loan or a student allowance through StudyLink. Here's what they are and how to apply.
Things to know about a student loan in New Zealand

Student loans

A student loan helps pay for your education while you study. It must be repaid through Inland Revenue once you start earning over a certain amount.

What a student loan can cover

You can borrow to cover:

  • Your course fees (paid directly to NMIT)
  • Course-related costs (up to $1,000 per year)
  • Weekly living costs (up to $223.43 if your under 55 and studying full-time)
Who can get a student loan in New Zealand

How to apply for a student loan

  1. Apply for your programme at NMIT
  2. Apply for a loan through StudyLink
  3. Use the same IRD number for both applications
  4. Once approved, sign your loan contract
  5. After that, StudyLink will pay NMIT and deposit your living costs (if included)
Applying for an student allowance in New Zealand

Student allowances

A student allowance is a weekly payment to help with living costs. Unlike loans, it does not need to be repaid.

Who can get a student allowance

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are 18 or older (some 16–17 year olds may qualify)
  • Are studying full-time (or approved limited full-time)
  • Meet New Zealand residency requirements
  • Pass income tests (your own income, and sometimes your parents’ or partner’s)

Can I get both?

Yes, you can get a student loan and a student allowance at the same time. But:

  • You can’t borrow the full living cost loan if you’re receiving the allowance
  • StudyLink will adjust payments so your total support stays within weekly limits

Training Incentive Allowance (TIA)

The Training Incentive Allowance(external link) is for employment-related training. It is available if you have specific deficiencies in employment skills or your current skills mean you are at risk of being on a benefit for a long time.

If you will be receiving this allowance, you will need to include a letter of confirmation from Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) with your Secure Your Enrolment form. You will also need to make a separate Student Loan application to StudyLink if part of your fees are also being paid by a Student Loan.

For further information on who can get the Training Incentive Allowance, please visit the StudyLink website using the button below.

Need help?

NMIT doesn’t manage loans or allowances directly. For help with eligibility, applications or repayments, please visit StudyLink.

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