StudyLink is the government service that provides financial support for students. Almost every NZ student uses it. Here's exactly how it works.
Student Loan
Covers your tuition fees (paid directly to the university) plus optional living costs and course-related costs. The loan is interest-free as long as you live in New Zealand. You start repaying it through your pay once you earn above a certain threshold after graduating.
Student Allowance
A weekly payment to help with living costs — rent, food, transport. It's based on your parents' income if you're under 24. If your family earns below the threshold, you could get up to $300+ per week that you never have to pay back.
How to Apply
Apply at studylink.govt.nz. Create a MyMSD account, which is also used for other government services. You'll need your IRD number, bank account details, and your parents' income details (for the allowance).
When to Apply
November or December, before university starts. Processing takes 2-6 weeks, sometimes longer at peak times. If you wait until February, you might not have your money sorted when uni starts.
Common Mistakes
Not applying early enough. Not providing parents' income information (needed for the allowance even if you think you won't qualify — apply anyway). Not updating StudyLink when your circumstances change. Not realising you can get both a loan AND an allowance.
Loan vs Allowance
The student loan living costs component is money you borrow and must repay. The student allowance is money you receive and never repay. Apply for the allowance first — whatever it doesn't cover, the loan living costs can supplement.
If You're Declined
You can request a review. Sometimes it's a simple error or missing document.