Training and apprenticeships

Free training and apprenticeships

Fees-free vocational education and training is available through the Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund. There is no need to apply as fees are paid directly to providers by the Tertiary Education Commission.

Funding is available for vocational programmes in targeted industries and for apprenticeships in all industries. Starting from 1 July, the vocational programmes initially funded are in the following areas:

• Primary industries, including agriculture, horticulture and viticulture, fisheries (including aquaculture) and forestry
• Construction, including building, plumbing and civil engineering
• Community support, including youth work, care for elderly, counselling and community health, including mental health and addiction support
• Manufacturing and mechanical engineering and technology
• Electrical engineering
• Road transport

Find the list of supported training on the Tertiary Education Commission website (external link)

Fees will be covered from 1 July 2020 to 31 December 2022. If you started a course earlier in the year, you may be eligible for a partial refund if your course continues past 1 July 2020.

Mana in Mahi

The Mana in Mahi programme can kick start your career, giving you on-the-job training so you get paid while working towards an industry qualification. You can also receive support getting the things you need to get started like clothes and tools. 

To apply, you can contact Work and Income on 0800 779 009 or email Mana_in_Mahi@msd.govt.nz.

Find out more about the Mana and Mahi programme on the Work and Income website (external link)

Hardship Fund for Learners

The Hardship Fund is available for students facing financial difficulty, including as a result of COVID-19. Through the fund, you can receive grants to cover certain costs, and loans if you are waiting on money from things like scholarship payments, research grants, international bank transfers, etc.

The Hardship Fund can help with a range of issues, including:

• necessary medical, dental, or optical costs
• unforeseen flatting or family problems
• exceptionally high course-related costs
• a disability or temporary illness that prevents part-time or holiday employment
• a change to your employment situation
• additional costs incurred by studying off campus
• increased living costs such as power.

To apply, contact your tertiary education provider.

Find out more about the Hardship Fund on the Tertiary Education Commission’s website (external link)