Top 10 Scholarships in New Zealand

Are you an international student looking for Scholarships in New Zealand? Then, you can get 10 of them just by reading this post. 

New Zealand is known for its world-class education system, and thus, it offers a variety of prestigious scholarships for 2025 that can help turn your academic ambitions into reality. Here are the top 10 scholarships in New Zealand you should consider applying for:

Scholarships in New Zealand

1. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships  

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Programme, administered by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), offers international students from select developing nations the opportunity to pursue tertiary education in New Zealand. This initiative aims to empower scholars with skills that contribute to the sustainable development of their home countries. It provides a comprehensive package covering tuition fees, living allowance, medical insurance, travel expenses, and research and thesis costs for selected postgraduate students.  

Eligibility and Focus:

• Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from eligible developing countries
• Preference is given to applicants pursuing MFAT-recommended subjects
• Full scholarship covering tertiary study costs in New Zealand

Application Process:

1. Review eligibility criteria and recommended study subjects on the official New Zealand scholarship website.
2. Prepare a compelling application highlighting:

• Alignment of chosen courses with recommended study areas
• Specific skills and knowledge you aim to acquire
• Relevance of these skills to your country’s development needs

3. Submit your application during the appropriate timeframe (typically opening in February, with country-specific deadlines)
4. If selected as a preferred candidate, secure admission to your chosen New Zealand institution.

For AUT applicants:

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) welcomes a significant number of Manaaki scholars annually. If you’re applying for both the scholarship and admission to AUT, contact the university directly at [email protected] for guidance.

Key Resources:

Official New Zealand scholarships website: Comprehensive information on eligibility, application procedures, and recommended study areas

AUT scholarship support: Direct assistance for applicants considering AUT as their study destination

By carefully following these guidelines and emphasizing how your educational goals align with both the scholarship’s objectives and your country’s development needs, you can strengthen your application for this prestigious opportunity to study in New Zealand.

2. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship  

This scholarship offers up to $10,000 towards compulsory tuition fees for new international students enrolling in undergraduate degrees, postgraduate diplomas, or master’s programmes at the University of Auckland.

Key Details:

• Value: Up to $10,000 for either postgraduate or undergraduate study
• Number of scholarships: Up to 50
• Tenure: One year
• Frequency: Offered twice annually

Application Periods:

• Semester One 2025 intake: 30 August 2024 24 October 2024
• Semester Two 2025 intake: 1 February 2025 1 April 2025

Eligibility:

Open to new international students of high academic caliber pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies of one year or more at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.

Application Process:

1. Review the scholarship regulations carefully to confirm eligibility
2. Access the online application form via the “Apply now” button on the scholarship webpage
3. Complete all sections of the form before the specified deadline
4. Submit any required references or endorsements

Selection and Notification:

• A selection committee makes decisions
• Outcomes are typically communicated about eight weeks after the application closing date.

Additional Information:

• Detailed regulations are available for download as a PDF from the scholarship webpage.
• For questions, consult the university’s AskAuckland help centre or contact the Student Support Team.
• In case of technical issues, try clearing your browser cache or contact support with details of the problem.

This scholarship represents an excellent opportunity for high-achieving international students to receive financial support for their studies at the University of Auckland. Prospective applicants should carefully review the full regulations and prepare a strong application highlighting their academic achievements and potential.

3. Tongarewa Scholarship at Victoria University of Wellington  

• Scholarship Level:  
• Master’s Research  
• Master’s by Coursework  
• All Postgraduate Programs  
• First-Year Students  
• School Leavers  

Closing Dates:  

• Trimester 1: November 1  
• Trimester 2: May 1  
• Trimester 3: August 1  
• Tenure: One Year  
• Target Audience: International Students  
• Number of Scholarships Offered: Varies  
• Value: $5,000 or $10,000  

 Purpose

The Tongarewa International Scholarships reflect Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s dedication to its international student community. These scholarships are awarded annually to support international students by contributing partially to their tuition fees for one year. Eligible applicants include those beginning their first year of an undergraduate degree or entering a postgraduate program.

Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and will be applied to tuition fees for the academic year following the application. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to provide further information to support their application. Recipients are guaranteed a place in university accommodation, provided they submit their application by the specified deadline.

 Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants Must:  
• Be international students paying full international fees.  
• Be entering their first year of an undergraduate degree or a postgraduate degree.

Applicants Are Not Eligible If They:  

• Completed secondary education at a New Zealand school.  
• Completed the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or Foundation Studies Programme.  
• Are Study Abroad or Twinning students from partner universities.  
• Are in their second year of study in the same degree program at Victoria University of Wellington.

 Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit a completed online application by 4:30 PM on the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. All required supporting documents, including references, must also be submitted by this deadline.

Applications typically open one month prior to the closing date. If no application link is available, check back closer to the deadline or contact us for inquiries.

Apply Here: [Tri 1 2025]

•  Required Documentation
• Applicants must include the following in their online application:
• A personal statement (up to 500 words) detailing their motivations for studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, academic goals, and qualifications for the scholarship. Include any leadership roles and community involvement.
• Full academic transcripts and relevant documentation for the qualification type.
• An offer of place from Victoria University of Wellington (either conditional or unconditional).

 Selection Process

A panel consisting of relevant staff from Wellington University International will evaluate applications.

Additional Information

These scholarships provide partial fee coverage and will be credited to tuition fees after the final withdrawal date for the trimester’s courses (approximately two weeks into the trimester).

Regulations and Conditions

• Applications must be submitted online by 4:30 PM on the closing date; late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted.
• Scholarship offers are contingent upon the recipient being enrolled in a full-year program (full-time as defined by Studylink).
• The scholarship cannot be deferred to a later year.
• It may be held alongside other awards.
• If a recipient withdraws from Victoria University of Wellington during the scholarship tenure or fails to maintain satisfactory progress, partial repayment of the scholarship may be required. Recipients must notify the Scholarships Office of any intention to withdraw.
• Recipients are expected to serve as ambassadors for Victoria University of Wellington and may be asked to participate in events or marketing initiatives.

For further details or questions, please reach out!  

4. University of Otago International Research Masters Scholarships  

Value:  

• NZ$18,204 stipend per annum  
• Tuition fee waiver for 1 year (capped at the domestic rate for Master’s study; excludes student services fee and insurance)
• Number Offered: 8  

• Closing Date: Applications accepted anytime  

The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is designed to support international students pursuing their first Master’s qualification through a thesis-based program at the University of Otago.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:  

• Be international students  
• Be pursuing their first Master’s qualification  
• Be enrolled in a thesis-based Master’s program  

Selection Criteria

• Selection will primarily focus on academic merit and the applicant’s potential for research.

Scholarship Details

• The scholarship provides funding specifically for the thesis component of a Master’s Research degree for up to one year of full-time enrollment.
• It covers tuition fees at the domestic rate, which is significantly lower than the international fee rate, meaning recipients will need to cover the difference themselves.
• The scholarship does not cover the student services fee or insurance.

Important Notes

• As an international student, you will incur higher tuition fees compared to New Zealand domestic students. 
• For detailed tuition fee rates, please consult the University’s International Office.

5. University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarships  

The University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship aims to attract talented international students who are new to studying at the university. It is awarded based on academic achievement and is intended for students enrolling in face-to-face study in 2024.

Scholarship Details

• Undergraduate Students: Receive between NZD $2,500 and $15,000, depending on the duration and terms of study:
  •   One year: Between $2,500 and $8,000.
  •   Two years: Between $2,500 and $12,000 (max $8,000 in the first year, max $4,000 in the second).
  •   Three years: Between $2,500 and $15,000 (max $8,000 in the first year, max $4,000 in the second, max $3,000 in the third).
• Postgraduate Students: Receive between NZD $2,500 and $15,000, applicable to one or more years of study.

Value:  

• Up to NZD $15,000 for postgraduate students  
• Up to NZD $15,000 for undergraduate students  

Eligibility:  

• Open to all countries  
• No IELTS required  
• Deadline: December 31, 2025  

 Eligibility Requirements

• To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must:
• Enroll full-time in an undergraduate or postgraduate program as a new international student.
• Have received a conditional or unconditional offer of place from the University of Waikato.
• Have a minimum GPA equivalency of B+ in their qualifying qualification.
• Not currently be enrolled at the University of Waikato or have paid fees at the time of application.
• Not be coming via a sponsoring body or on a Guaranteed Credit Arrangement.

 How to Apply

1. Applications can be submitted anytime, with decisions typically made within 8 to 12 weeks.
2. Ensure applications are not submitted within 4 weeks of the start of each trimester.
3. Upload your conditional or unconditional offer of place during the online application.

 Additional Information

• The scholarship will be applied directly to the recipient’s tuition fees.
• Successful applicants will also be expected to serve as global ambassadors for the University of Waikato.

6. 180-credit Taught Master’s Merit Scholarship at Lincoln University  

The 180-credit Taught Master Merit Scholarship is available for qualifying international students enrolled in full 180-credit taught master’s programs at Lincoln University.

Value:  

• NZ$10,000 for select programs  
• NZ$7,000 for other specified programs  

 Scholarship Details

NZ$10,000 for the following programs:

• Master of Business (Global Management and Marketing)
• Master of Business (Finance)
• Master of Fintech and Investment Management
• Master of Professional Accounting (CPA)
• Master of Management in Agribusiness
• Master of Sports and Recreation Management
• Master of Tourism Management
• NZ$7,000 for the following programs:
• Master of Applied Computing
• Master of Pest Management
• Master of Science in Food Innovation
• Master of Environment Policy and Management
• Master of Wine and Viticulture
• Master of Precision Agriculture

 Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must have a GPA of at least B+ average in the last year of their bachelor’s degree.
• Available to international students only.

 Application Process

• No separate application is required. The scholarship will be assessed and offered automatically to qualifying international students.
• For more information, contact the International Office at Lincoln University.
• This scholarship provides an excellent opportunity to reduce tuition costs while pursuing a master’s degree!

7. ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Developing Countries in Asia and Pacific  

This program offers full scholarships covering tuition fees, living allowance, and travel expenses to students from developing nations in Asia and the Pacific who are pursuing master’s degrees in New Zealand.  

ADB-Japan Scholarship Program Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the ADB-Japan Scholarship Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Nationality:

Must be a national of an ADB borrowing member country or a Japanese ODA scholarship-eligible country.

Cannot hold dual citizenship of any developed country.

2. Admission:

Must have gained admission to an approved master’s course at a Designated Institution.

3. Academic Background:

Must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with a superior academic record.

4. Professional Experience:

Must have at least two (2) years of full-time professional working experience (acquired after obtaining a university degree) at the time of application.

5. Language Proficiency:

Must demonstrate proficiency in oral and written English communication skills to pursue studies.

6. Age Requirement:

Must be no more than 35 years old at the time of application unless waived in exceptional cases with the endorsement of the Government of Japan.

7. Health:

Must be in good health.

8. Return Commitment:

They must agree to return and work in their home country for at least two (2) years after completing their studies in the program to contribute to its development.

9. Exclusions:

Cannot be an Executive Director, Alternate Director, management, staff, or consultants of ADB, or their close relatives.

• Cannot be staff of ADB-JSP Designated Institutions.
• Cannot be living or working in a country other than their home country.
• Cannot be already enrolled in graduate degree programs.

Eligible Countries/Areas

Citizens from the following countries are eligible:

• Afghanistan
• Armenia
• Azerbaijan
• Bangladesh
• Bhutan
• Cambodia
• Cook Islands
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Fiji
• Georgia
• India
• Indonesia
• Kazakhstan
• Kiribati
• Kyrgyz Republic
• Lao People’s Democratic Republic
• Malaysia
• Maldives
• Marshall Islands
• Mongolia
• Myanmar
• Nauru
• Nepal
• Niue
• Pakistan
• Palau
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Sri Lanka
• Tajikistan
• Thailand
• Timor-Leste
• Tonga
• Turkmenistan
• Tuvalu
• Uzbekistan
• Vanuatu
• Viet Nam

This scholarship provides a valuable opportunity for eligible candidates to pursue higher education in Japan while contributing to their home countries’ development.

8. ADB Scholarships at the University of Auckland  

These full scholarships are co-funded by the University of Auckland and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), targeting master’s students.  

9. Lincoln University International Taught Master Merit Scholarships  

This scholarship offers NZ$10,000 in financial support for exemplary international students pursuing a master’s degree at Lincoln University.  

10. Friends of the University of Auckland Scholarships  

The Friends of the University of Auckland US/NZ Exchange Award supports students and graduates of the University of Auckland enrolling in a US university, as well as US citizens and permanent residents studying at the University of Auckland.

Key Details

Application Status: Not currently open for applications.

Applicable Study: 

Any undergraduate or postgraduate degree at the University of Auckland (inbound).

Any undergraduate or postgraduate study at a US university (outbound).

Opening Dates: 

• 4 July 2024
• 25 September 2024
• Closing Dates: 
• 15 August 2024
• 6 November 2024
• Tenure: One year.
• Purpose: Assistance for travel or tuition.
• Number of Awards: Up to three outbound and up to three inbound.
• Value: Up to $3,000 each.

Application Process

• Scholarship applications typically open around six weeks before the closing date.
• Applicants should read the regulations carefully to ensure eligibility before applying.

Help and Support

• For questions about scholarships, awards, and prizes, visit the University’s online help and support center, AskAuckland.
• For specific scholarship inquiries, include the exact name of the award.
• For urgent questions regarding scholarships or awards closing within three days, mark your inquiry as urgent.

Strategies for a Strong Scholarship Application

1. Verify Your Eligibility

Before investing time in an application, carefully review all scholarship criteria and requirements. If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, reach out to the scholarship committee for clarification. Consider consulting your program advisor or prospective school in New Zealand for guidance on suitable funding opportunities.

2. Begin Early

Given the competitive nature of scholarships, initiate your search as soon as you’ve decided to study in New Zealand. Gathering necessary documentation can be time-consuming, so start well in advance of deadlines, especially when acquiring references or specific paperwork.

3. Apply Broadly

Consider submitting applications for multiple scholarships simultaneously to maximize your chances and efficiency. Ensure you use the correct application form for each scholarship and tailor your responses accordingly.

4. Provide Comprehensive Information

Scholarship applications often require detailed information about your academic background, financial situation, study plans, and personal achievements. Compile all necessary details and double-check your application for completeness before submission.

5. Include Personal Experiences

When relevant, incorporate your personal experiences and learning objectives into your application. Highlight how studying abroad aligns with your goals and what you hope to gain from the experience.

6. Submit Certified Documents

For scholarships requiring certified copies of documents, ensure they are properly authenticated by an authorized individual in your country. If original documents are not in English, provide certified translations.

7. Proofread Thoroughly

Enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member to review your application. They can provide valuable feedback on clarity, coherence, and catch any grammatical or spelling errors you might have missed.

8. Exercise Patience

The selection process for scholarships can be lengthy. If you haven’t received a response, it’s likely that the review process is still ongoing. Avoid frequent inquiries and trust that you’ll be notified of the outcome in due course.

By following these guidelines, you can enhance the quality of your scholarship application and improve your chances of success in securing funding for your studies in New Zealand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the types of scholarships available for international students to study in New Zealand?

International students can access several types of scholarships for studying in New Zealand, including government-funded scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and private scholarships.

What are the eligibility criteria to apply for scholarships in New Zealand?

Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship but often include academic excellence, financial need, community involvement, and leadership potential.

How can I search for scholarships to study in New Zealand?

Scholarships can be found through scholarship search engines, university websites, and government websites dedicated to scholarship opportunities.

How can I apply for scholarships in New Zealand?

The application process typically involves filling out an application form and submitting supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose (SOP). Specific requirements may vary by scholarship.

When is the best time to apply for scholarships in New Zealand?

It is best to apply several months before the academic year begins. Be sure to check each scholarship’s application deadline, as they can vary.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships in New Zealand?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships. Just ensure you read the terms and conditions of each scholarship to confirm your eligibility for receiving more than one.

SEE ALSO: Doctoral Degree Scholarships and Grants 2024

Conclusion on Scholarships in New Zealand

These top 10 scholarships in New Zealand for 2025 offer incredible opportunities to pursue your academic goals in a country known for its high educational standards. Apply now and embark on your journey toward academic excellence in New Zealand.

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