New Zealand has become a top choice for international students thanks to its world-class universities and safe, welcoming environment. But while the quality of education is high, so are the costs — tuition fees for international students range between NZD 22,000 – 40,000 per year, with living expenses adding another NZD 15,000 – 20,000 annually.
In 2025, students don’t just need loans; they need student-friendly loans — ones with low interest, flexible repayment, and simple processes. This guide highlights the most student-friendly study loan providers in New Zealand (2025).
Why Students Need Flexible Loan Options
- Visa requirements – Proof of funds is mandatory.
- High upfront costs – Tuition and living expenses must often be paid before arrival.
- Uncertain income – Students may not earn much while studying.
- Repayment pressure – Friendly terms mean less stress during and after studies.
Top Student-Friendly Loan Providers in New Zealand (2025)
1. ANZ Bank New Zealand (Student-Friendly Packages)
- Why it’s useful: Offers flexible student-focused credit products.
- Highlights:
- Student-friendly lines of credit.
- Lower starting interest for education.
- Online support and repayment flexibility.
- Best for: Students with family in NZ who can act as guarantors.
2. BNZ (Bank of New Zealand)
- Why people choose it: Tailors banking for students and young professionals.
- Highlights:
- Affordable student overdrafts and loans.
- Discounts for borrowers with student accounts.
- Online loan calculators for easy planning.
- Best for: Students needing smaller, manageable loans.
3. Westpac NZ (Student Options)
- Why it stands out: Known for student-friendly repayment plans.
- Highlights:
- Flexible repayment (pause or adjust payments).
- Education loans can cover tuition and living.
- Student packages with low or zero fees.
- Best for: Students balancing part-time work with studies.
4. ASB Bank
- Why it’s solid: Digital-first with transparent policies.
- Highlights:
- Quick online approvals.
- Tailored repayment schedules.
- Competitive student loan interest rates.
- Best for: Students comfortable with digital banking.
5. SBI (State Bank of India) – Global Ed-Vantage
- Why it’s great for Indians: Covers students heading to New Zealand.
- Highlights:
- Up to INR 1.5 crore for overseas studies.
- Covers tuition, accommodation, and travel.
- Moratorium period (repayment starts after studies).
- Best for: Indian students applying from home.
6. HDFC Credila (India)
- Why it’s student-friendly: Long repayment flexibility.
- Highlights:
- Custom EMIs up to 15 years.
- No upper cap on loan amounts (depends on need).
- Covers tuition, books, housing, and insurance.
- Best for: Students who want maximum repayment time.
7. Prodigy Finance (International Lender)
- Why it’s unique: No guarantor or collateral required.
- Highlights:
- Approval based on future income potential.
- Loans for students from 150+ countries.
- Covers tuition + partial living costs.
- Best for: International students without local guarantors.
Average Costs of Study Loans in NZ (2025)
- NZ banks: 7% – 11% annually.
- Indian lenders: 9% – 13%.
- Global lenders: 8% – 15%.
- Repayment: 5 – 15 years.
💡 Example: A loan of NZD 40,000 at 9% over 10 years = ~NZD 500/month.
Tips for Student-Friendly Borrowing
- Look for moratoriums – Repay after course completion.
- Choose flexible repayment – Some banks allow adjustments if income changes.
- Compare home vs NZ lenders – Sometimes loans from your home country are cheaper.
- Borrow only what’s needed – Keep debt manageable.
- Ask about student discounts – Many banks offer perks for student accounts.
Final Thoughts
For students in New Zealand, the right loan provider isn’t just about interest rates — it’s about flexibility and student support.
- NZ Banks (ANZ, BNZ, Westpac, ASB) are great for students with local ties.
- Indian lenders (SBI, HDFC Credila) are best for Indian students preparing before departure.
- Prodigy Finance is ideal for those without guarantors.
By choosing student-friendly loans, you can focus on your studies instead of financial stress.