Tertiary study options

Get help with making the right decision about tertiary study.

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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 credits needed for tertiary study

Find out what NCEA credits you need to get into tertiary study at a university, polytechnic or wānanga.

What are the costs?

How much does tertiary education really cost? The basic costs to think about are course fees, course-related costs, and living costs while you are studying or training.

Student loans, allowances and other ways to pay

Finding the money for tertiary education isn’t always easy. Here’s some information about how you can fund your tertiary education.

Why you need a plan B

Get tips on forming a back-up plan if you can’t get into the tertiary course you want.

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 tertiary provider - even if you didn't finish 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?

What you can do if you're struggling with your study.

Updated 18 Dec 2018