Fees Free
As you may be aware, the Prime Minister has launched the government’s ‘fees-free’ policy. TEC is the government agency that is implementing the fees-free policy.
You can find general information about this policy on the website www.feesfree.govt.nz.
As Varda is a tertiary education organisation providing education at level 3 and above, some of the students enrolling at Varda in 2018 will be eligible to study for free.
To find out if you are eligible go to www.feesfree.govt.nz and enter your NSN number.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
A student's eligibility for the Governments 'Fees Free' Tertiary can change during their enrolment. If new information comes to light and a student's eligibility changes from eligible to not eligible you will be liable and invoiced fees owed.
A Quick Guide for Students
Have you checked your eligibility for fees-free tertiary education yet?
If this is the first time you are doing tertiary study, you could be eligible for fees-free study.
If you think you could be eligible for fees-free use your NSN (National Student Number) to check by clicking on the button below. We will do our own checks so we know if we need to charge you for your study.
If you already know you’re eligible, great! Take a look at the checklist over the page to make sure you are ready for study.
Click the button below to check your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out my National Student Number (NSN)?
If you studied after 2003, you will have an NSN. To find it, contact NZQA on 0800 697 296 - they will ask you some verification questions, and then let you know what it is.
When do I need to complete the eligibility process?
It is very important you do this as soon as you can, so we know not to charge you for your study. Otherwise you may receive a bill for your study. You might still have to apply for a Student Loan.
Will all my course fees be paid?
Fees-free will cover:
• Tuition
• Associated mandatory fees
• Compulsory student service fees
Fees-free will not cover:
• Students’ association fees
• Club memberships
• Course materials
• Late fees
Fees will be paid up to a total amount of $12,000 or less. If your fees are more than this, you will need to pay the difference.
What happens if I withdraw from my courses?
It is important to know that if you enrol in courses and don’t complete your study, you may lose your entitlement to fees-free in subsequent years.