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Tertiary education and training

Further study after secondary school offers a rich and rewarding experience and has the potential to improve employment opportunities, income levels and standard of living.

There are lots of options when it comes to tertiary education – part time or full time, on campus or via distance learning. There are lots of different providers too, including universities, polytechnics/institutes of technology and wānanga, as well as private training establishments.

If the person you support is not sure what they want to do, there is information about all the different study and training options at Careers NZ. This website can help users identify their skills and interests, plan their career, and figure out what training or qualifications they will need to meet their career goals. The courses database gives information about training providers and courses of study available in each region.

A good resource for anyone wanting to navigate government services is www.govt.nz. The education section provides information and useful links on topics such as tertiary education, apprenticeships and on-the-job training.

If the person you support is moving from secondary school to tertiary study, you might want to look at our page on transition to adult services to find out about places you can get additional support and advice.

Financial support while studying

Anyone receiving financial support from Work and Income will need to let them know if they plan to study. Those receiving a Supported Living Payment can study full time, but in most cases it will affect eligibility for Jobseeker Support.

In certain circumstances Work and Income may provide support for education or employment related training if it is needed to learn skills and find employment. This could help with the cost of course fees, books, childcare and transport.

Those who don’t qualify for support from Work and Income may be eligible for a weekly Student Allowance from Studylink, or a Student Loan to cover the cost of fees, course-related costs and living expenses. It’s important to remember that Student Loans must be repaid.

Workbridge is an employment agency that administers the Training Support fund which provides financial assistance for a person with a disability undergoing training or education as part of their plan to gain open employment. It can be used for things like transport costs, special equipment and NZSL interpreters.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a good way to fund further education without taking on debt.

GivME is a database where you can find lots of scholarship and award opportunities. Users must pay to subscribe to the service, but most secondary schools, tertiary institutes and public libraries will be able to provide you with access for free.

You’ll find the Careers NZ section on scholarships really useful, with links to scholarship information at universities and polytechnics throughout New Zealand, as well as tips for applying.

Look for information about scholarships and grants on the New Zealand Government website.

Disability support services at each tertiary education provider should be able to provide you with information about scholarships for people with disabilities. And many disability support organisations and charitable trusts may also have grants available. Check out our page on other funding options for more ideas.

Support for students with disability

Tertiary education organisations are expected to ensure equity of access and opportunity for people with disabilities, and to provide the support students require for full participation.

Most tertiary providers will offer support for students with disabilities through Disability Support Services or a Disability Liaison Officer.

Disability Support Services may be able to help with things like scholarship information, campus accessibility, special examination conditions, note taking, equipment for loan, accessible course materials and sign language interpreters.