New Zealand students face financial hardship due to delayed student loan processing, despite meeting the December 16 deadline.

New Zealand students face financial strain as delays in processing student loan applications persist, despite applying by the December 16 deadline. Some have waited weeks without income, relying on family support, while 87.5% of early applications have been finalized—better than last year—though many post-deadline submissions remain pending. The Ministry says processing is ahead of last year despite an 11,000 increase in applications, with backpay guaranteed. Universities like Victoria University are hosting StudyLink reps on campus to assist students amid growing concerns over unaffordable rent, food, and fees.