Changes in Student Allowances in 2008

Allowances recipients by residency

The percentage of non-citizen¹² allowances recipients increased from 13 percent in 2002 to 19 percent in 2006 and then it dropped back down to 16 percent in 2008.  The average annual allowance of non-citizens is higher than that of citizens.  The difference increased from about $500 in 2004 to around $1,000 in 2006.  However, in 2008, the difference decreased to about $600.

Figure 7: Student allowances recipients by citizenship

The difference results from the different profiles of citizens and non-citizens.  In 2007, citizen and non-citizen recipients had a similar gender breakdown: about 54 percent were female and 46 percent were male.  However, the average age of citizens and non-citizens differed considerably at 26 years and 31 years, respectively.  Consequently, the proportion of single students with no dependants (all ages) among New Zealand citizens receiving allowances was 89 percent compared to 69 percent for non-citizens. 

Note that the average annual allowance of students with no dependants is lower than the overall average annual allowance.

Footnote

12. New Zealand permanent residents or refugees who have lived in New Zealand for two years are entitled to allowances, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.