Student accommodation costs have never been higher, as first year students struggle to make ends meet.

Auckland University Student Association president, Alan Shaker, says he knows many students who need to work full-time, on top of studying full-time.

He says their most expensive room is $510, up from $470 last year- a significant increase in their accommodation fees.

The weekly student allowance gives eligible students $360 dollars and a living cost loan of just over $302.

LISTEN ABOVE

• University course completion rates lowest since 2014
• Controversial Vic Uni lecture rule could be scrapped
• Tauranga students worried about university chances after NCEA results error
• Massey University to put $150m in property up for sale or lease in Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North