If you completed and passed your 1st eligible tertiary qualification or work-based programme in 2025, you can apply for Fees Free now.
What is Fees Free?
Fees Free is for first-time tertiary learners. It covers fees up to $12,000 for the final year of study or final 2 years of work-based learning.
Check if you’re eligible for Fees Free.
If you're ready to apply for Fees Free
The best time to apply is after we've received information from the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) confirming you've completed a qualification or programme.
You can apply for Fees Free in myIR. For qualifications or programmes completed in 2025, you have until 31 December 2026 to apply.
Where your Fees Free entitlement goes
If you have a student loan, your Fees Free payment will go to your loan balance. This will reduce the amount of student loan you need to repay. If you do not have a student loan, it will be paid to your bank account.
Fees Free and your student loan
Fees Free is not income
Any Fees Free entitlement you receive will not be treated as income - do not include it in your income tax return.