Top New Zealand Scholarships for International Students
A comprehensive guide to New Zealand scholarships for international students from study abroad experts to make your academic dreams come true.
Securing a scholarship is the single most effective way for international students to afford a high-quality education abroad. New Zealand, with its world-class institutions and stunning natural beauty, offers a range of scholarships that help reduce the financial burden, allowing students to focus on their academic and personal growth.
Among the well-known scholarships for international students are the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship, and the Victoria University of Wellington Doctoral Scholarships. Let us explore the various types of scholarships, their eligibility criteria, application processes and more in this comprehensive guide for international students.
Types of New Zealand Scholarships for International Students
Several New Zealand scholarships for international students offered by the government and universities can be divided into the following categories.
Government Scholarships
Government-funded scholarships are awarded by the New Zealand government, which extends an invitation to talented international students to enter the country and supports them in their education. These include tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowance.
The most popular government scholarship in New Zealand for international students is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships (formerly known as New Zealand Development Scholarships).
Non-Government New Zealand Scholarships
These scholarships are offered by private organisations, foundations, and trusts; therefore, they are referred to as non-government scholarships. Sometimes, these scholarships target specific fields of study, research projects, or even student demographics.
- New Zealand Excellence Awards
- ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
Institution-Specific New Zealand Scholarships
Many New Zealand universities offer scholarships in an attempt to attract high-achieving international students. These are often fully funded scholarships in New Zealand, covering a wide range of expenses. Usually merit-based, awarded for leadership, or concentrated on certain fields of study, the popular ones are listed below:
- University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
- Victoria University of Wellington Doctoral Scholarships
- University of Otago International Research Master's Scholarship
Scholarships in New Zealand for international students offer them opportunities and the necessary financial support to achieve their educational goals and pursue successful careers.
Top Government Scholarships in New Zealand
Here is an overview of the top government scholarships available to international students for studying in New Zealand.
| Scholarship Name | Description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships | The main government scholarship programme for students from developing countries. It is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. | Fully funded, covers full tuition fees, a weekly living stipend (NZ $531), an establishment allowance for initial costs, travel costs (flights, visas), and health and travel insurance |
| New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships (part of the Manaaki program) | A specific category under the Manaaki programme for postgraduate students from Commonwealth countries. | Fully funded, covers full tuition fees, weekly stipend, establishment allowance, and return air travel |
| Short-Term Training Scholarships | Offers professionals from developing nations short-term training and skills development in New Zealand. | Fully funded, covers course and visa fees, return airfare, medical insurance, and a living allowance |
| New Zealand Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarships | Supports PhD candidates from developing countries in undertaking research in agricultural greenhouse gas mitigation. | Fully funded scholarship, including an annual stipend of NZ $28,000, tuition fees up to NZ $10,000 per year, and medical insurance and visa costs |
Top Non-Government Scholarships in New Zealand
In New Zealand, many private organisations, charities, and trusts offer non-government scholarships to help international students in their academic pursuits. Most of the time, these scholarships are field-specific, research-based, or targeted at specific student demographics.
| Scholarship Name | Description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| ADB-Japan Scholarship Program | For students from ADB-borrowing member countries to pursue postgraduate studies at specific partner institutions in New Zealand | Covers full tuition fees and living allowances |
| Education New Zealand & New Zealand Universities Scholarships | A general category for various scholarships funded by Education New Zealand and its partner universities, which are specifically for international students | Amounts vary widely, from partial tuition waivers to full scholarships |
University-Specific Scholarships to Study in New Zealand
University scholarships in New Zealand are meant to attract and support international students. Many universities, such as the University of Otago and Lincoln University, also accept students on government scholarships, including the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships. The following is a list of some major university-specific scholarships for international students in New Zealand.
| Scholarship Name | University Name | Description | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship | University of Auckland | Prizes for exceptional overseas students in all academic subjects | Up to NZ $10,000 |
| Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Scholarship | Victoria University of Wellington | Based on leadership and academic merit for overseas students | Up to NZ $5,000 - $10,000 |
| University of Otago International Research Master's Scholarship | University of Otago | Aids foreign students seeking master's degrees in research | An annual stipend of NZ $18,204 combined with a one-year tuition fee remission capped at the domestic cost for master's study |
| AUT International Excellence Scholarships | Auckland University of Technology | Honours leadership and academic success among overseas students | NZ $5,000 towards fee payment; AUT has several tiers of international scholarships, some of which are valued higher |
| Vice-Chancellor’s International Postgraduate Scholarships | University of Otago | These merit-based scholarships are intended to assist overseas students in their academic endeavours and acknowledge academic accomplishment, diversity, and leadership potential | Up to NZ $15,000 for undergraduates, up to NZ $10,000 for postgraduates |
| Lincoln University International Scholarships | Lincoln University | Scholarships are based on the academic achievements and abilities you have demonstrated so far | NZ $7,000 - $10,000 |
| Lincoln University International Taught Master Merit Scholarships | Lincoln University | For foreign students enrolled in master's programmes that are taught | NZ $7,000 or NZ $10,000 |
Eligibility Criteria for New Zealand Scholarships
While most scholarships for international students in New Zealand are merit-based, not need-based, international students must meet the following eligibility requirements for New Zealand scholarships:
Eligibility for Merit-Based Scholarships
- Academic Excellence: Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence. Many scholarships have academic GPA requirements.
- Enrolment: Candidates must be enrolled in a full-time course.
Eligibility for Need-Based Scholarships
Financial Need or Difficulty: The selection criteria consider the financial situation of the students, specifically their need for immediate financial aid and housing arrangements.
Eligibility for Manaaki Scholarships
Intent to Return to Home Country: It is essential to note that recipients are required to return to their home country for a minimum of two years after completing their studies. This is a crucial condition.
Eligibility For Specific Equity Category
- The First Member of the Family to Enrol in College: This suggests that the applicant is the first person in their immediate family, including parents and siblings, to register in a university programme.
- Background as Refugees: Students or the pupils' primary guardians, such as parents, have been given sanctuary in New Zealand.
Requirements for All New Zealand Scholarships
- A well-written Scholarship Essay/SOP
- Strong references supported with Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in New Zealand?
Follow the steps below to apply for New Zealand scholarships for international students:
Step 1: Verify your eligibility first
To determine if you are eligible to apply, complete the online eligibility test for New Zealand. You will get an eligibility code if the test results verify your eligibility.
Step 2: Open an account with the New Zealand Scholarship Fund
Clicking "Register" will initiate the registration procedure if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Step 3: Create a password for yourself
To complete the registration process and reset your password, an email will be sent to the email address you provided during registration.
Step 4: Fill out the application and send it in by the deadline
To submit the application form, the applicant must finish the application process by the nation's closing date.
The New Zealand scholarships have become a significant source of financial aid, making the pursuit of higher education much easier and more affordable. Government, private organisations, and university scholarships extend partial aid at undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels. In addition to easing academic goals, these scholarships also enhance future career prospects, thereby increasing students’ interest in studying in New Zealand.
Ready to take the next step towards your education in New Zealand? Unlock your full potential with scholarships in New Zealand. Register at AECC today to get expert advice and support in securing the best scholarship opportunities for your study abroad journey.