Universities may hit a financial 'wall' without Fees Free funding, student leader warns

A student leader believes universities will hit a wall when it comes to funding without the Fees Free scheme.  

Tertiary Education Minister Penny Simmonds says despite supporting more than 300,000 students from 2018-2025, covering more than $2 billion in fees, it didn't meaningfully lift participation or provide a good return.  

But Victoria University of Wellington Students Association president Aidan Donoghue told Ryan Bridge universities will have to change tack without the scheme. 

He says they will have to ask for more government funding or require more from students. 

Donoghue says fees have already increased 20% in three years. 

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