Fees

Transparent course fees with flexible payment options and secure fee protection.

Course fees & payment information

Investment in your future made simple

At Skills Institute, we believe quality vocational training should be accessible. Our course fees are competitive and transparent, with no hidden costs. Whether you're a domestic or international student, we'll work with you to find payment solutions that fit your budget and career goals.

Fee structure varies by:

  • Course duration and qualification level
  • Student residency status (domestic or international)
  • Study mode (on-campus, work-based, blended or online courses)
  • Campus location (courses in Auckland, Dunedin or Wellington)

Domestic students (New Zealand residents)

StudyLink support: New Zealand residents may be eligible for student loans and allowances through StudyLink. Many of our programmes qualify for government funding support through the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).

Payment requirements: You can apply to StudyLink for a loan once you receive an Offer of Place and invoice from us. Fees must be paid in full prior to the start of your studies. Domestic students awaiting payment by student loan must provide confirmation of the student loan application prior to course commencement.

Student Services Levy: All domestic fee-paying students must pay a compulsory student services fee of $200-$400 (GST inclusive). Students can borrow this amount as part of their student loan. This levy funds key services including pastoral care and student support.

International students

Payment timing: Fees need to be paid in full for a year of study prior to enrolment. All fee details will be included in your Conditional Offer of Place and invoice, with bank account details provided for payment processing.

No government funding: International students are not eligible for New Zealand government funding or StudyLink support, but we can discuss payment plan options to help manage costs.

Secure fee protection for all students

Public Trust protection: Your investment is protected through Public Trust (www.publictrust.co.nz). All student fees are banked directly into a trust account with Public Trust, ensuring your money is secure.

How it works:

  • Fees are only released to Skills Institute from the Public Trust Account after the eighth day from the start of your course
  • In the unlikely event that we cannot complete your course, Public Trust will refund any fees owed to you
  • For students with loans, refunds are paid directly to StudyLink

Understanding refunds

Domestic student refunds:

Courses of 13 weeks or more:

  • Within first 8 working days: Full refund less $500 administration fee
  • Day 9 or later: Refunds only in exceptional circumstances at Site Manager's discretion

No refunds apply for: Student expulsion, transfers to another school, or inaccurate enrolment applications

International student refunds: Different refund policy applies based on course duration and withdrawal timing. Specific percentages range from 50-75% depending on when you withdraw. Full details available in our International Student Handbook.

Payment plan options

We understand that paying course fees upfront isn't always possible. Contact our Student Support Team to discuss flexible payment arrangements that work with your budget and study timeline.

Get detailed fee information

Course fees depend on your specific programme and circumstances. Our Student Support Team provides personalised fee quotes and can discuss:

  • Exact course costs for your chosen programme
  • StudyLink application support for domestic students
  • Payment plan arrangements
  • International student fee structures
  • Student Services Levy details

Ready to discuss your options? Contact our Student Support Team on 0800 200 345. We'll provide you with detailed fee information and help you understand all available funding and payment options for your chosen career path.

Fee transparency guarantee: We believe in complete transparency. You'll receive detailed course cost information before making any commitment, with no surprise charges or hidden fees.