Schools

Every year, more that 180,000 New Zealand students apply to colleges and universities. Each student will have a question.

However, if your answer is yes, then you will be confused and may reconsider your plans to go to college. It doesn’t mean you have to abandon your academic dreams. Here are some ways students can deal with their financial woes to make their educational journey more manageable.

Take out student loans:

Around 80 percent of New Zealand’s college students use this option to fund their education. Because of the high interest rate, loans should be considered carefully and thoroughly researched before you take out a loan. Federal loans typically offer greater benefits than private loans. The good news is that some private lenders offer rates higher than the government’s.

Also, make sure to look on the internet for any other options. New Zealanders can visit websites, such as Nectar.co.nz where they can find all the information they need to obtain educational loans. According to a report 144.705 students used student loan programs from January to September 2021. Proper research is a must when you are considering borrowing money. You should look for loans that have low interest rates and flexible repayment terms.

Apply online for federal grants or scholarships:

Federal grants and scholarships can be applied for if you meet certain criteria. These criteria often include meeting certain academic requirements or choosing specific areas to study. The government offers NZ$10,000 in scholarships for students undergrad and NZ$5,000 per year for students postgrad. Apply for every scholarship to maximize your chances.

Get started early. Contact your guidance counselor and make a shortlist of scholarships you might be eligible to apply for when you graduate. These are some excellent options to help you jumpstart the research process:

  1. ADB Scholarship University of Auckland
  2. University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship
  3. Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Award
  4. Canterbury Chemeca Trust Fund
  5. Commonwealth Scholarship & Fellowship Plan
  6. Helen Macmillan Brown Scholarships
  7. UC Product Design Scholarship
  8. Mercer Memorial Scholarship
  9. Sir Neil Isaac Scholarship

Pick a moderate university:

If you are able to pay your tuition fees at a reasonable-priced university, it is much easier. Students are increasingly choosing to start at community colleges or technical schools before going to university.

If you wish to apply for a regular 4-year program, be sure to check for programs that offer student aid. This includes low dorm rentals and low degree credit costs. Prepare a plan including scholarships and out of pocket payments so you are fully prepared. Compare them with colleges around your area. These are the top ten most cost-effective universities New Zealand has to offer in 2022. They are ranked according their tuition costs.

  1. University of Auckland
  2. University of Canterbury
  3. Lincoln University
  4. Auckland University of Tech
  5. Massey University

Apply today for work-study opportunities:

If you are looking for experience and money, college work-study is the best option. It offers valuable job experience and the potential to build connections for your future employment.

Apply for a work-study programme through the government’s site. If you qualify, “Work-study”, will be listed on the financial aid application. Be aware that just because a grant is granted does not automatically mean you are qualified. To get your reward cash, you’ll have to search for a work-study course at your university.

Choose to trade instead of a four-year degree:

As you can see, more students choose to enroll in community college instead of getting a four-year degree. Trade schools are a great way to start your job and learn a marketable skill. An apprenticeship program is also available at some schools. A report states that an apprenticeship program earns you NZ$15 per hour.

To learn more, you can search for trade schools near your location that may offer an apprenticeship program. The most popular apprenticeships are in plumbing, pipefitting (woodworking), and ironwork. These skills can help you get part-time job and pay for your education.

You can save your money by

Students should consider starting a parttime job while they are still in high school. Consider it a savings plan for college tuition. The money you earn and save, if nothing else, will come in handy.

Save now. Save enough money to cover any unexpected costs by the time that you start college applications. You will have to use your savings for grants money and scholarships. This can be used for room payments, food, and drink, as well other college-related expenses.

Make your mark with freelancing and crowdfunding.

Let’s not forget about creativity. Many students have succeeded in paying for college tuition through crowdfunding sites (GoFundMe being one of the most popular), or working as a side hustle to pay tuition. Or you can get creative with any one of these options and start monetizing what you have to offer.

  1. YouTube Videos
  2. Blog/Content writing
  3. Affiliate marketing
  4. Podcasts

If you are a skilled person, it might be worth starting a side business to help build your brand.

Conclusion

Over 43,000 New Zealanders graduate annually from local universities. 90% of these students complete an undergraduate degree. Don’t let financial obstacles stop you pursuing higher education. This article offers some great tips to make paying for college tuition much easier. If you are talented enough, it is a smart idea to borrow money and leverage scholarships. These tips will help you get the career you want.