Tertiary student numbers could be set to rise, with new student benefits set to kick in from next year.

More than 130,000 students will have access to an extra $50-dollars a week, following a Government boost to the student allowance.

First-year students also won't be required to pay fees for their first year of study.

Universities New Zealand executive director, Chris Whelan told Mike Hosking the fees-free policy is attracting a lot of interest.

"We're seeing a lot of inquiries but we also know there are a lot of people holding back waiting to get confirmation on whether they will or won't be eligible for this policy."

LISTEN ABOVE AS CHRIS WHELAN SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING