Education: early childhood, school enrolment, domestic fees and student loans

At New Zealand primary and secondary schools, domestic students study free at state and state-integrated schools. International students pay fees. New Zealand citizens and residents are domestic students. A Ministry of Education notice also lists some children on temporary visas who are treated as domestic students. The most common case is a child on a student visa with a parent on a work visa.

Early childhood education (ECE) in New Zealand comes in several types, including kindergartens, daycare centres, Playcentre and home-based care. Children aged 3 to 5 can get the government's 20 Hours ECE. This covers up to 20 hours a week, and up to 6 hours a day, with no fees for those hours. To help with costs beyond that, look at the Childcare Subsidy from Work and Income and FamilyBoost from Inland Revenue.

Most children in New Zealand start primary school from their 5th birthday. Children aged 6 to 16 must go to school or be home educated. Many schools have a home zone. If you live in the zone, your child is guaranteed a place. If you live outside it, you can apply, and if there are not enough places the school holds a ballot. Domestic students do not pay fees at state schools, and school donations are voluntary.

If you study at university or another tertiary provider in New Zealand, you can apply through StudyLink for a Student Loan and a Student Allowance. A Student Loan covers course fees and living costs, and you must pay it back. A Student Allowance helps with living costs, and you do not pay it back. Your student loan has no interest while you live in New Zealand. If you are not a New Zealand citizen, you usually need to have lived in New Zealand for 3 years and held a residence class visa for 3 years before you can apply. Fees Free for the final year of study ends on 31 December 2026.