Planning to study in New Zealand can be expensive, but numerous scholarships make it accessible for international students. These scholarships help cover tuition, living costs, and other expenses, making it easier for deserving candidates to pursue higher education.
Scholarships in New Zealand 2025:
New Zealand Government Scholarships (NZGS)
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship
This article provides a complete guide to scholarships in New Zealand, detailing top options, required documents, application process, and expert tips to maximize your chances of securing funding in 2026.
Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand 2026
New Zealand offers many fully funded scholarships annually for Indian and international students. Most scholarships also consider academic excellence, leadership potential, and English proficiency. Application windows typically range from March to December, depending on the program and provider.
Here is a table for top 10 scholarships in New Zealand:
#
Scholarship Name
1
New Zealand Government Scholarships (NZGS)
2
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
3
Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship
4
University of Otago International Scholarships
5
New Zealand Development Scholarships (NZDS)
6
Lincoln University International Postgraduate Scholarship
7
Massey University International Excellence Scholarship
8
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) International Student Scholarship
9
Canterbury University International Excellence Scholarship
10
Massey University Research Scholarships (PhD & Masters)
Let us understand about each scholarships for New Zealand mentioned above in the table in detail:
1. New Zealand Government Scholarships (NZGS)
The NZGS program aims to foster strong global partnerships by enabling students to gain world-class education and develop leadership skills that can benefit their home countries.
Provider & Purpose: New Zealand Government; to support high-achieving international students for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Benefits: Full tuition fees, living allowance, health insurance, travel allowance.
Number of Scholarships: Varies annually, approx. 100–200.
Eligibility Criteria: Academic excellence, leadership potential, citizenship from eligible countries including India, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications usually open in March–April; results announced in June–July.
Official Website: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/
2. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
This scholarship attracts top-performing international students to Auckland by recognizing their academic achievements and encouraging them to contribute to the university community.
Provider & Purpose: University of Auckland; to attract top-performing international students.
Benefits: Full or partial tuition coverage, stipend for living costs.
Number of Scholarships: 50 annually.
Eligibility Criteria: Outstanding academic record, enrollment in an eligible program, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications open October–December; results by January.
Official Website: https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/scholarships-and-awards/find-a-scholarship/university-of-auckland-international-student-excellence-scholarship-844-all.html
3. Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship
The scholarship promotes academic excellence among international students while encouraging participation in campus activities and leadership initiatives.
Provider & Purpose: Victoria University; to support meritorious international students in undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
Eligibility Criteria: High academic achievement, leadership qualities, English language proficiency.
Important Dates: Application window October–December; results in January.
Official Website: wgtn.ac.nz/international/scholarships-fees/scholarships
4. University of Otago International Scholarships
Designed to encourage diversity, this scholarship helps international students cover living costs while contributing to Otago’s vibrant academic and cultural environment.
Provider & Purpose: University of Otago; to promote international diversity and academic excellence.
Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance, travel allowance, health coverage.
Number of Scholarships: Around 40–50 per year.
Eligibility Criteria: Academic merit, leadership potential, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications open September–November; results announced December–January.
Official Website: https://www.otago.ac.nz/international/future-students/fees-scholarships/international-scholarships
5. New Zealand Development Scholarships (NZDS)
NZDS supports students from developing countries, equipping them with skills to contribute to sustainable development in their home nations.
Provider & Purpose: New Zealand Government; for students from developing countries to pursue development-related studies.
Benefits: Full tuition, travel allowance, monthly stipend, health insurance.
Number of Scholarships: Around 100 annually.
Eligibility Criteria: Citizens of eligible developing countries, strong academic record, leadership potential, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications open March–May; results in July.
Official Website: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/
6. Lincoln University International Postgraduate Scholarship
This scholarship encourages postgraduate students to pursue advanced studies in agriculture, business, and science-related fields while easing financial constraints.
Provider & Purpose: Lincoln University; to attract international postgraduate students.
Benefits: Full tuition, NZD 10,000 (INR 5 lakhs) stipend, possible travel support.
Number of Scholarships: 10–15 per year.
Eligibility Criteria: Academic merit, admission to eligible postgraduate programs, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications accepted January–March; results by April.
Official Website: https://www.lincoln.ac.nz/study/scholarships/
7. Massey University International Excellence Scholarship
This scholarship rewards high-achieving students and encourages them to engage in campus life while pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
Provider & Purpose: Massey University; to reward top international students.
Benefits: Tuition waiver (partial or full), living stipend for 12 months.
Number of Scholarships: 30–50 annually.
Eligibility Criteria: High academic achievement, program-specific eligibility, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications open October–January; results announced February.
Official Website: https://www.massey.ac.nz/study/scholarships-and-awards/
8. Auckland University of Technology (AUT) International Student Scholarship
AUT’s scholarship motivates students to excel academically while promoting international diversity on campus.
Provider & Purpose: AUT; to support meritorious international students.
Benefits: Partial or full tuition, living allowance, some travel support.
Number of Scholarships: 20–30 per year.
Eligibility Criteria: Academic merit, leadership potential, enrollment in eligible programs, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications open September–December; results in January.
Official Website: https://www.aut.ac.nz/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships-and-awards-at-aut/international-scholarships
9. Canterbury University International Excellence Scholarship
The scholarship fosters excellence among international students while enhancing the global reputation of the university through academic achievement.
Provider & Purpose: University of Canterbury; for outstanding international students in undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
Benefits: Tuition coverage, living stipend, travel support.
Number of Scholarships: 25–40 annually.
Eligibility Criteria: Academic performance, leadership, English proficiency, program enrollment.
Important Dates: Applications open October–December; results announced January.
Official Website:https://scholarshipscanterbury.communityforce.com/Login.aspx
10. Massey University Research Scholarships (PhD & Masters)
These scholarships enable high-quality research in New Zealand by financially supporting international students and encouraging innovative projects.
Provider & Purpose: Massey University; to encourage international research students in science, technology, and business programs.
Benefits: Full tuition, research stipend, living allowance, travel grants.
Number of Scholarships: 15–20 annually.
Eligibility Criteria: Academic merit, research proposal, program acceptance, English proficiency.
Important Dates: Applications open throughout the year; decisions within 6–8 weeks.
Official Website: https://www.massey.ac.nz/study/scholarships-and-awards/massey-university-masters-research-scholarship/
List of Documents Required to Apply for Scholarships in New Zealand
Applying for scholarships in New Zealand requires careful preparation of key documents to demonstrate your eligibility, academic achievements, and personal strengths. These documents allow the scholarship providers to assess your qualifications, motivation, and suitability for the award.
Essential Documents Include:
Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates: Official records of your previous education, showing your grades and academic performance.
Valid Passport: Proof of identity and citizenship for international students.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually from professors or employers, highlighting your skills, academic potential, and leadership qualities.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter: A personal essay describing your goals, reasons for applying, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your objectives.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Summarizes your educational background, achievements, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
Proof of Language Proficiency:IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted scores demonstrating your ability to study in English.
Research Proposal: Required for postgraduate or PhD scholarships, outlining your planned research project and objectives.
Financial Documents: Some scholarships may ask for proof of financial status to confirm your need or eligibility.
Additional Certificates or Forms: Any extra documents specifically requested by the scholarship provider.
Ensuring all documents are accurate, complete, and well-organized significantly increases your chances of a successful scholarship application in New Zealand.
How to Apply for Scholarships in New Zealand – Application Process
Applying for scholarships in New Zealand involves a structured process to ensure your application meets all requirements. Follow these steps carefully to improve your chances of success:
Step 1: Research Scholarships Identify scholarships that match your academic level, field of study, and nationality. Check eligibility criteria, benefits, and application deadlines on the official scholarship websites.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, CV, passport, and language proficiency scores. Ensure they are accurate, up-to-date, and formatted as per guidelines.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form Most New Zealand scholarships require online submission. Fill in your personal details, academic information, and other required fields carefully. Double-check all entries before submitting.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents Attach all required documents in the specified format (PDF, JPG, etc.) and ensure file sizes meet the application portal requirements.
Step 5: Review and Submit Application Before final submission, review the entire application thoroughly to avoid errors. Some scholarships allow previewing or saving drafts for multiple checks.
Step 6: Monitor Application Status After submission, regularly check your email and the scholarship portal for updates, interview calls, or additional document requests.
Step 7: Attend Interviews (if applicable) Some scholarships require interviews, either online or in-person. Prepare by researching the scholarship, your study plan, and potential questions.
Step 8: Await Results and Acceptance Once selected, follow the instructions to confirm acceptance, sign agreements, and prepare for enrollment.
Following these steps systematically ensures a smooth scholarship application process and maximizes your chances of securing funding in New Zealand.
Quick Tips to Improve Your Chances of Securing Scholarships in New Zealand
Securing a scholarship in New Zealand requires more than just meeting eligibility criteria. Here are some practical tips to strengthen your application and improve your chances of success:
Start Early: Begin researching scholarships and preparing documents at least 6–8 months before the deadline to avoid last-minute stress.
Tailor Your Statement of Purpose: Highlight your academic achievements, leadership qualities, career goals, and reasons for choosing New Zealand. Make it personalized and compelling.
Strong Recommendations: Request recommendation letters from professors or employers who know your abilities well and can provide specific examples of your skills and achievements.
Meet All Eligibility Criteria: Carefully review academic, language, and nationality requirements. Ensure your grades, test scores, and experience meet the minimum standards.
Maintain Academic Excellence: High grades and relevant achievements improve your chances, especially for competitive scholarships.
Show Leadership and Extracurricular Activities: Scholarships often look for candidates with leadership potential and community involvement. Highlight relevant experiences.
Proofread Applications: Ensure there are no grammatical or factual errors in your documents. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail.
Follow Guidelines: Stick to word limits, document formats, and submission requirements. Non-compliance can lead to disqualification.
Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances by applying to several scholarships that align with your profile.
Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, research common questions, practice answers, and present yourself confidently.
Implementing these strategies increases your probability of securing a fully funded scholarship in New Zealand and demonstrates commitment, preparation, and professionalism.
5 Things to Avoid When Applying for Scholarships in New Zealand
Applying for scholarships can be competitive, and small mistakes can cost your chances. Here are five common errors students should avoid to improve their likelihood of success.
1. Missed Deadlines Submitting your application late can lead to automatic disqualification, no matter how strong your profile is. Always track deadlines carefully and submit well in advance.
2. Ignoring Eligibility Requirements Applying without meeting academic, language, or nationality criteria wastes time and reduces your chances. Ensure you fully qualify before applying.
3. Generic Applications Using a one-size-fits-all application fails to impress scholarship committees. Tailor each application to the specific scholarship and highlight why you are a strong fit.
4. Incomplete/Wrong Documents Missing or incorrect documents can delay processing or lead to rejection. Double-check transcripts, certificates, and recommendation letters before submission.
5. Poorly Written Essays or SOPs Weak, unclear, or error-filled essays reflect poorly on your commitment and communication skills. Craft compelling, error-free SOPs that demonstrate your achievements and goals.
Conclusion
New Zealand offers a wide range of fully funded scholarships for Indian and international students, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel allowances. By understanding eligibility criteria, preparing strong applications, and avoiding common mistakes, students can maximize their chances of selection and achieve their study abroad goals.
With early planning and careful documentation, you can confidently target the top scholarships. These opportunities not only reduce financial burden but also open doors to world-class education and global career pathways.
FAQs
Are fully funded scholarships in New Zealand available for undergraduate students?
Yes, some fully funded scholarships in New Zealand support undergraduate programs, especially those offered by universities and government bodies for high-achieving international students. They cover tuition, stipends, and other allowances depending on the scholarship structure.
Can Indian students apply for scholarships in New Zealand without IELTS?
Some universities accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or medium-of-instruction certificates. However, most fully funded scholarships in New Zealand still require a valid English proficiency score. Always check specific scholarship language requirements.
Do New Zealand scholarships cover health insurance for international students?
Many government-funded and university-funded scholarships include health insurance as part of their benefits package. Coverage varies, so students should review details in the official scholarship guidelines before applying.
What GPA is required to qualify for scholarships in New Zealand?
Most competitive scholarships in New Zealand require strong academics, generally equivalent to a minimum 3.0–3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Some research scholarships may ask for higher grades, especially at the postgraduate level.
Are part-time jobs allowed while studying on a scholarship in New Zealand?
Yes, most international students holding a scholarship can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks, unless specific scholarship rules restrict employment. Always confirm regulations with the scholarship provider.
Are there scholarships in New Zealand for students with low income?
Yes, several scholarships prioritize students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. These awards may not always be fully funded, but they offer partial fee waivers, living allowances, or support grants to reduce financial barriers.
Do scholarships in New Zealand require separate applications for each university?
Most university-specific scholarships need separate applications, while government scholarships follow a centralized application process. Always review requirements, as deadlines and application systems differ across scholarship providers.
How competitive are fully funded scholarships in New Zealand for PhD students?
PhD scholarships are highly competitive because they offer full tuition, research funding, and living stipends. Strong academic records, research proposals, publications, and faculty recommendations significantly boost the chances of selection.
Are there scholarships in New Zealand for non-STEM programs?
Yes, Arts, Business, Humanities, Law, and Social Sciences students can find multiple scholarships. Many universities offer discipline-specific scholarships, while government scholarships support a broad range of academic fields.
Can students apply for more than one scholarship in New Zealand at the same time?
Yes, students can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. However, most fully funded scholarships in New Zealand do not allow recipients to hold more than one major award at a time. Check award policies before accepting.
Do scholarship providers in New Zealand conduct interviews?
Some competitive scholarships include interviews, online or in person, to evaluate communication skills, motivation, leadership experience, and academic readiness. Not all scholarships require interviews, but shortlisted candidates may undergo further assessment.
Are family or dependent allowances included in New Zealand scholarships?
Most scholarships do not cover dependents. However, some PhD scholarships and research grants may allow limited support or visa flexibility for spouses or children. Students must verify terms with each scholarship provider.
When should I start preparing documents for scholarships in New Zealand?
Start preparing at least six to nine months before the deadline. This allows time to gather transcripts, recommendation letters, English scores, and SOP drafts, ensuring a strong and error-free submission.
Is work experience required for postgraduate scholarships in New Zealand?
Not always, but certain fully funded scholarships in New Zealand, especially leadership-based or development-focused ones, prefer applicants with relevant professional or volunteer experience. Research and PhD programs may require academic or research experience.
What happens if I withdraw after receiving a scholarship in New Zealand?
Withdrawing after accepting a scholarship may result in penalties, repayment obligations, or permanent disqualification from future scholarships in New Zealand. Students should read all scholarship terms before formally accepting the award.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4130 articles published
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