Medical students and debt: a survey of students at the School of Medicine, University of Auckland

Aims. To assess the extent of Auckland medical students' debt, the types of debt accrued and to establish data on part-time employment, income, parental support and living circumstances for these students. Methods. Medical students at the University of Auckland were asked to complete a written survey questionnaire, which was distributed in lecture classes for years 1-5 and by mail for year 6. The questionnaire asked about biographical data, types and amounts of debt, the use of student loan scheme money, employment, income, student allowances, parental financial support and living situation. Students not sent the survey by mail were informed about the survey several days prior to receiving it to enable them to collate the necessary financial information. Data entry was completed via an electronic scanning system and questionnaire responses were analysed using a tabular analysis of the various classes. Results. There were 522 responses received, comprising 73% of students (48% male, 52% female). The major source of debt was to the Government student loan scheme (39% of students in year 1, rising to 75% in year 6). Average (median) debt to the Government loan scheme rises from $5000 in year 1 to $26 000 in year 6. Fourteen per cent of students receive a targeted student allowance and 30% have a part-time job. Average summer vacation earnings do not exceed $4000. Thirty-four percent receive no financial support from their parents and 18% receive support with some costs only. With the exceptions of students in year 1, more than 50% of students live away from home. Conclusion. Medical students are predominantly in debt to the Government student loan scheme and the level rises by approximately $5000 per year from year 1 to year 6. It is expected that these levels will increase in the future.