Hon Chris Hipkins
Minister of Education
2 November 2017
Fees-free tertiary study on fast track
Students are a step closer to a more affordable future as the new government fast-tracks work on its free-fees tertiary
education promise.
Cabinet has given the go-ahead for detailed implementation planning for the introduction of one year of fees-free
tertiary education and a $50 a week boost to student allowances and loan entitlements. Officials have already started
work on both changes, which will come into force from 1 January 2018.
“Investing in education and the future of our young people is an absolute priority for this Government,” says Education
Minister Chris Hipkins.
“A key part of that is improving affordability and access to tertiary education. Students and parents have told us that
the cost of study is a real issue. Making the first year of tertiary education fees-free will mean more young people can
go on to study after school and gain qualifications with less debt.
“That’s not just a win for students and their families, it’s a win for the future of our economy. If New Zealand is to
be wealthy and successful we must make it easier for our young people to study at our universities, polytechnics, other
tertiary providers, and through industry training such as apprenticeships.
“Officials are working on the details of how these policies will be implemented and to determine who will be eligible to
benefit from them, and we are on track for 2018.
“Students, schools and tertiary providers are understandably keen to know full details. We will make sure they get the
information they need in a timely way. In the meantime they can rest assured that the first year of fees free study will
kick in next year and should plan accordingly.
“Prospective students and tertiary education organisations should continue to make arrangements for study and enrolments
for next year as they normally would. This includes starting, or continuing, any applications for study and/or for
student loans or allowances.
“StudyLink is encouraging prospective students to apply by 16 December and to provide their supporting documents
promptly to ensure their applications are sorted for the start of the 2018 academic year.
“The Government is committed to life-long learning to help better equip our people for the challenges and opportunities
of the 21st Century economy.
“We are also committed to rolling out our full programme of three years’ fee-free tertiary education for New Zealanders
by 2024 alongside better support for living costs,” Mr Hipkins says.
ends