Doc Summary
Yes—New Zealand citizens can study in Australia. Most Kiwis are granted a Special Category visa (SCV, subclass 444) on arrival, which permits you to live, work, and study in Australia without needing a separate student visa. However, tuition fees and access to government loans differ from Australian citizens. This guide explains your rights, costs, funding options, and smart pathways, including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Quick answer #
- You usually don’t need a student visa; you receive an SCV (subclass 444) on arrival if eligible (Home Affairs).
- You can study at universities, TAFE, and private colleges across Australia.
- Many NZ citizens can access Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) if residing in Australia during study, but HECS‑HELP loans are generally limited to long‑term NZ residents who meet specific criteria (StudyAssist CSP, HECS‑HELP).
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is not required for SCV holders; many Kiwis can enrol in Medicare (Services Australia).
- Work rights are not capped by study; SCV holders can work unlimited hours.
- RPL can turn your NZ skills and experience into Australian qualifications faster. Skills Campus can help.
Visa status: studying on an SCV (subclass 444) #
Under the Trans‑Tasman arrangements, eligible New Zealand citizens are usually granted the Special Category visa (SCV 444) on arrival. This temporary visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia. You generally do not need to apply for a separate student visa if you hold an SCV. See the Australian Government guidance for NZ citizens living in Australia: Home Affairs – New Zealand citizens.
Fees, CSP eligibility, and student loans #
Your fee status and funding depend on your residency and course type:
- Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP): Many NZ citizens are eligible for CSP if they are resident in Australia for the duration of each unit of study. CSP reduces tuition via a government subsidy; you pay a student contribution. Confirm details with your provider and see StudyAssist.
- HECS‑HELP (higher education loans): Most NZ citizens are not eligible to defer CSP contributions with HECS‑HELP unless they meet long‑term residency criteria (e.g., first lived in Australia as a dependent child and meet 10‑year residency tests). Always check current rules at StudyAssist – HECS‑HELP eligibility.
- VET Student Loans (VSL): Some long‑term resident NZ citizens on an SCV may qualify for VSL for approved VET diploma‑level courses and above; see DEWR – VSL eligibility.
- Full‑fee places and scholarships: If you’re not in a CSP, you may be offered a full‑fee place. Many universities and TAFEs offer scholarships open to NZ citizens; check provider websites and Study Australia.
Health cover: Medicare vs OSHC #
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a requirement for student visa holders. As an SCV holder, you’re typically not a student visa holder, and many New Zealand citizens can enrol in Medicare. Private health insurance remains optional but recommended. Always verify your eligibility and what’s covered.
Work rights and living considerations #
- Work while studying: SCV holders have the same general work rights as other temporary residents and are not subject to the capped work hours applied to student visas. Balance workload with course attendance and progression requirements.
- Tax File Number (TFN): To work and to access any available loan systems or repayment arrangements, apply for a TFN via the ATO: Apply for a TFN.
- Schooling for dependants: Public school policies vary by state/territory; check local education departments for fees and eligibility.
What and where can Kiwis study? #
You can enrol in Australian universities, TAFE institutes, and private Registered Training Organisations across all states and territories. If you already have NZ qualifications or substantial experience, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can shorten your pathway to an Australian qualification under the AQF. For licensed professions, the Trans‑Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement may streamline occupational registration between NZ and Australia.
Skills Campus can assess your background and connect you with accredited providers, credit transfer options, and RPL pathways to reduce cost and time.
How to apply: step‑by‑step #
- Choose your course and provider: Compare universities/TAFE using official resources like Study Australia.
- Confirm your fee type: Ask the provider whether you’ll be offered a CSP or a full‑fee place, and what you must pay upfront.
- Check loan eligibility: If you believe you meet long‑term resident criteria for HECS‑HELP or VSL, confirm via StudyAssist and DEWR.
- Apply: Submit applications directly to the provider or via state admission centres where relevant. Prepare ID (NZ passport), transcripts, and evidence of residency if needed.
- Plan your move: Arrange accommodation, enrol in Medicare if eligible, and obtain a TFN for work.
- Get expert help: For tailored advice, credit mapping, and RPL, contact Skills Campus.
FAQs for New Zealand citizens #
Do Kiwis need a student visa? Usually no—most study on the SCV (subclass 444) granted on arrival, if eligible.
Are Kiwis domestic or international students? Admission categories vary by provider. Many NZ citizens can access CSP if resident in Australia during study, but loan access (HECS‑HELP) is limited to long‑term residents who meet criteria. Always confirm with your institution.
Can I get HECS‑HELP? Only if you satisfy specific long‑term residency criteria as an NZ SCV holder. See StudyAssist.
Do I need OSHC? Not typically for SCV holders. Many Kiwis can access Medicare; verify eligibility via Services Australia.
Can I work while studying? Yes—SCV holders generally have full work rights.
Get personalised advice and fast‑track your pathway #
From choosing the right university or TAFE to verifying CSP and HECS‑HELP eligibility, and leveraging RPL to convert NZ experience into Australian qualifications, Skills Campus provides end‑to‑end guidance for New Zealand citizens.
Information is general in nature and may change. Always check official government sources linked above and confirm details with your education provider.
Study in Australia with Skills Campus #
Skills Campus is Australia’s trusted education, RPL, and migration guidance partner for Kiwis moving across the Tasman. Start your plan today: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact
