Here are the things you need to know and check before you apply for Fees Free.
When to apply for Fees Free
You must apply for Fees Free within 1 year of completing your qualification or programme. For qualifications or programmes completed in the 2025 calendar year, you have until 31 December 2026 to apply.
Who can apply for Fees Free
Only the learner can apply for Fees Free. Even if someone else pays your fees, for example your employer or parent, you will need to apply for Fees Free yourself.
myIR account
You will need a myIR account to apply for Fees Free.
First eligible qualification or programme
When you apply, make sure it is for the 1st eligible qualification or programme you have completed.
If we have received information about your qualification or programme from the Tertiary Education Commission, we will pre-fill it in your application.
It’s important you check this information carefully to ensure you receive the correct entitlement. You can change this information in your application if it’s wrong.
Qualification or programme completion date
The official completion date for your qualification or programme is the day you meet the requirements to be awarded the qualification or programme. This may be on your New Zealand record of achievement.
You can download your New Zealand record of achievement from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority website.
New Zealand record of achievement | NZQA
National student number (NSN)
You'll need to know your NSN when you apply.
If you're currently at school or enrolled with a tertiary education organisation, you can ask them for your NSN.
You can also contact the New Zealand Qualifications Authority or use the Ask Awhina chatbot on their website.