How long after getting my resident visa can I get a student loan in NZ?
You usually need to have held a residence class visa for at least 3 years. You must also have lived in New Zealand for at least 3 years and be ordinarily resident here. Different rules apply to refugees, protected persons and some other groups. Until then, you usually need to pay course fees and living costs yourself.
Official figures
- Residence requirement for a student loan
- You are a New Zealand citizen. Or you are ordinarily resident in New Zealand, and you have lived in New Zealand for at least 3 years and held a residence class visa for at least 3 years.1
- Living costs loan
- Up to NZ$333.48 a week for full-time students1
- Course-related costs
- Up to NZ$1,000 (for example, books, stationery and a computer)1
- Course fees
- You can borrow for compulsory course fees. If you are 55 or older, you can only borrow for these fees.1
- Establishment fee
- A one-off establishment fee of NZ$60 is added to your loan balance1
Official sources
- Student LoanStudyLink · studylink.govt.nz
- Student AllowanceStudyLink · studylink.govt.nz
- Student Allowance when you have 2 parentsStudyLink · studylink.govt.nz
- I am going overseas - Student loansInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Studying at university: student loans and allowances (StudyLink) →
People also ask
- How much can I borrow each week for living costs on a student loan?
- What is the difference between a Student Allowance and a Student Loan? Do I have to pay them back?
- Can my child get a Student Allowance if we have a high income?
- Is the NZ student loan really interest-free? What happens if I move overseas?
- Is final-year Fees Free still available, and how do I apply?
- When should I apply to StudyLink? Do I need to apply again every year?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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