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Education and training

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Tertiary study options

Choosing to enter tertiary study is a big decision to make, and can have a great impact on your life. But because costs can be high, it's good to find out all you can about a course before you commit.

In this section

Choosing a course
There are many factors to weigh up when choosing a tertiary course, such as which type of provider you prefer, what qualification you'll get at the end of it, and how the course itself is structured.
NCEA and getting into tertiary study
Planning on doing tertiary study? Find out the minimum number of NCEA credits you'll need to get into universities, polytechnics, wānanga and private training establishments.
What are the costs?
How much does tertiary education really cost? There are three basic costs to think about: course fees, course-related costs, and living costs while you are studying or training.
Student loans, allowances and other ways to pay
Can you afford tertiary education? How are you going to pay for it? Finding the money isn’t always easy. Here’s some information about how you can fund your tertiary education.
Why you need a "plan B"
Limits on education funding may mean that you can't get into the course you want. That's why it pays to have a back-up plan. Find out about your alternatives if you miss out on your chosen course.
Recognition of prior learning
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is a system of formally recognising skills and knowledge you have acquired from informal learning. This can help you complete a course or qualification more quickly.
Credit transfer, cross crediting and exemptions
If you have already been enrolled in tertiary study, you may be able to transfer your credits to a different qualification or education provider - even if you never finished your original programme.
Student life
What kind of course work can you expect? What type of accommodation is right for you? Find out about what student life is like, and how you can prepare.
Struggling with your study?
Not enjoying or keeping up with your studies? You’re not alone. A recent Ministry of Education study showed that 57% of students who had started studying for a qualification had not completed it six years later. Find out what you can do if you're struggling with your study.