Training Funding Support

Work-based and campus based

When you enrol, talk to your MAST Academy Training Advisor to discuss how you pay the fees with your employer.

For campus-based study, you may wish to apply for a student loan. Find out more at – StudyLink.

Fees Free

The Government has confirmed the final-year Fees Free scheme will end from the end of 2026.

Currently, Fees Free covers the final year of tertiary study or final two years of work-based learning (up to eligibility limits), for learners who enrolled in training on or after 1 January 2025 and complete by 31 December 2026.

For MAST learners enrolling in 2025 and beyond, access to Fees Free may be limited, as most Level 4 programmes extend beyond 2026 and are unlikely to be completed before the scheme ends.

For more information on the eligibility requirements and when it is best to apply for Fees Free, visit Inland Revenue.

Apprenticeship Boost

Employers can receive $500 a month for up to 12 months through Apprenticeship Boost for eligible first-year apprentices in MAST Academy’s Level 4 apprenticeship programmes (excluding L4 Composites).

For more information and to apply, visit  Apprenticeship Boost.

Student Loan and Allowances

MAST students are domestic students so you may qualify for a student loan or allowance to help pay for course related costs or living expenses while you study.

Not all MAST Academy courses are eligible for a student loan, student living costs or student allowances. You will need to check your eligibility with Study Link and the MAST Academy Administration team to check your eligibility. Your eligibility for a student loan or living allowance is subject to an eligibility test Take the Eligibility test here.

Here’s how to apply and the information you need for a student loan or allowance (click the links):

Information on Student Loans

Information on student allowances

Information on Student Loan Living Costs

Extra Help with other costs

How much you can get depends on your eligibility, age, income and course type. 

You must apply early before the course starts as it may take some time for the student loan application process to be completed and approved.

Processing times

Standard processing times: your student loan application usually takes about four weeks to be approved and paid

Peak times: if you’re applying during the busy period (mid-December to March), your application could take more than four weeks due to high demand

If your student loan application is taking longer than expected or you haven't heard anything from StudyLink, contact StudyLink.