New Zealand Scholarships for International Students: What's Available in 2026?

## Quick Facts - **New Zealand Government Scholarships (NZGS)**: Approximately 50–80 scholarships awarded annually to international students from eligible developing countries, covering full tuition, living allowance (NZD $25,000–$30,000 per year), establishment allowance, and airfare. - **University-specific scholarships**: All eight New Zealand universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships ranging from NZD $5,000 to NZD $50,000 per year, with some covering full tuition for high-achieving students. - **Commonwealth Scholarships**: Available for postgraduate study at participating New Zealand universities, covering full tuition, travel costs, and a living allowance of approximately NZD $28,000 per year for up to two years. - **PhD scholarships**: International PhD students pay domestic tuition fees (approximately NZD $7,000–$8,000 per year) and are eligible for research scholarships worth NZD $25,000–$35,000 per year from universities or government funding. - **Application deadlines**: Most major scholarship deadlines fall between April and October for the following academic year (starting February or July). Early application is strongly recommended. - **Eligibility criteria**: Typically require strong academic performance (equivalent to a New Zealand A- average or higher), English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5–7.0), and in some cases, demonstrated leadership or community involvement. - **Scholarship value range**: From partial fee waivers (NZD $5,000–$10,000) to full-cost scholarships covering tuition, living expenses, and health insurance (total value up to NZD $100,000+ over three years). ## Overview of Scholarships for International Students in New Zealand (2026) New Zealand offers a range of scholarship opportunities for international students, from government-funded programmes to university-specific awards. The total value of scholarships available varies significantly, but for the 2026 academic year, international students can access funding that covers partial tuition costs up to full cost-of-attendance packages. This article provides a data-grounded overview of the main scholarship categories, eligibility criteria, application processes, and practical tips for securing funding. New Zealand's education system is committed to attracting talented international students. The government, through Education New Zealand and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, administers several scholarship programmes. Additionally, each of New Zealand's eight universities has its own scholarship portfolio, often targeting specific regions, fields of study, or academic achievements. The information presented here draws on official sources—Education New Zealand, Immigration New Zealand, NZQA, and individual university websites—to provide a comprehensive starting point for your research. ## Government-Funded Scholarships The New Zealand Government offers several scholarship programmes for international students. The most prominent is the **New Zealand Scholarships (NZGS)** programme, which is part of New Zealand's Official Development Assistance. These scholarships are available to citizens of eligible developing countries in the Pacific, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. ### New Zealand Scholarships (NZGS) - **Eligibility**: Citizens of eligible countries (e.g., Fiji, Indonesia, Kenya, Samoa, Sri Lanka, Vietnam). Must meet academic and English language requirements. Preference is given to applicants who demonstrate a commitment to contributing to their home country's development. - **What's covered**: Full tuition fees, a living allowance (NZD $25,000–$30,000 per year depending on location), an establishment allowance (NZD $3,000 one-time), health insurance, travel costs (return airfare), and a research allowance for postgraduate students. - **Duration**: Up to four years for undergraduate programmes, two years for postgraduate diplomas, and one to two years for master's degrees. - **Application process**: Applications are managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) through the New Zealand High Commission or Embassy in the applicant's home country. Deadlines vary by country but typically fall between February and June each year. - **Number of awards**: Approximately 50–80 new scholarships awarded annually, with some continuing scholarships for multi-year programmes. ### Commonwealth Scholarships New Zealand participates in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), offering scholarships for postgraduate study (master's and PhD) at participating New Zealand universities. - **Eligibility**: Citizens of Commonwealth countries (excluding New Zealand and Australia). Must hold at least a bachelor's degree with strong academic record. - **What's covered**: Full tuition fees, a living allowance (NZD $28,000 per year for a single student), travel costs (return airfare from home country to New Zealand), and a research grant. - **Duration**: Up to two years for a master's degree, up to three years for a PhD. - **Participating universities**: University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington, Massey University, and University of Waikato. - **Application process**: Applications are coordinated through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the applicant's home country. Deadlines vary but are typically in the first half of the year. ## University-Specific Scholarships Each of New Zealand's eight universities offers a range of scholarships for international students, including merit-based awards, need-based grants, and programme-specific funding. The following are highlights from 2026, but students should check each university's scholarship page for the most current offerings. ### University of Auckland - **University of Auckland International Student Scholarship**: Up to NZD $10,000 per year for one year, renewable for up to four years. Available for high-achieving undergraduate students. Approximately 50–60 awards annually. - **Auckland Excellence Scholarship**: Full tuition fees for up to four years for students with exceptional academic records (equivalent to A+ average). Approximately 10–15 awards annually. - **Faculty-specific scholarships**: For example, the Faculty of Engineering offers the **Dean's International Scholarship** (NZD $5,000–$15,000) for top-performing engineering applicants. ### University of Otago - **University of Otago International Scholarships**: NZD $10,000–$20,000 per year for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Approximately 30–40 awards annually. - **Otago International Excellence Scholarship**: Full tuition fees for up to three years for students with outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential. Approximately 5–10 awards annually. - **PhD scholarships**: All international PhD students receive a tuition fee waiver (domestic fee rate of approximately NZD $7,500 per year) and are eligible for a **University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship** worth NZD $30,000 per year for up to three years. ### Victoria University of Wellington - **Victoria International Excellence Scholarship**: NZD $10,000–$20,000 per year for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Approximately 20–30 awards annually. - **Tongarewa Scholarship**: NZD $5,000–$15,000 per year for international students from specific regions (e.g., Asia, Pacific). Approximately 15–20 awards annually. - **PhD scholarships**: The **Victoria Doctoral Scholarship** provides NZD $28,000 per year for up to three years, plus a tuition fee waiver. ### University of Canterbury - **UC International First Year Scholarship**: NZD $10,000–$15,000 for the first year of undergraduate study. Approximately 20–30 awards annually. - **UC College of Engineering International Scholarship**: NZD $5,000–$10,000 per year for up to four years for engineering students. - **PhD scholarships**: The **UC Doctoral Scholarship** offers NZD $28,000 per year for up to three years, plus a tuition fee waiver. ### Massey University - **Massey University International Student Scholarship**: NZD $5,000–$10,000 per year for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Approximately 20–30 awards annually. - **Massey University Doctoral Scholarship**: NZD $28,000 per year for up to three years, plus a tuition fee waiver. ### Other Universities - **University of Waikato**: International Excellence Scholarship (NZD $10,000–$20,000 per year), approximately 15–20 awards annually. - **Lincoln University**: International Merit Scholarship (NZD $5,000–$10,000 per year), approximately 10–15 awards annually. - **Auckland University of Technology (AUT)**: AUT International Excellence Scholarship (NZD $5,000–$10,000 per year), approximately 15–20 awards annually. ## PhD Funding Opportunities for International Students One of the most significant advantages for international PhD students in New Zealand is the **domestic tuition fee status** policy. Since 2023, all international PhD students enrolled at New Zealand universities pay the same tuition fees as domestic students, which is approximately NZD $7,000–$8,000 per year (compared to NZD $35,000–$50,000 for international master's students). This policy applies to all PhD programmes at NZQA-approved universities and research institutes. In addition to the tuition fee waiver, international PhD students are eligible for: - **University doctoral scholarships**: As listed above, these range from NZD $25,000 to NZD $35,000 per year for up to three years. Most universities also offer a research allowance of NZD $2,000–$5,000 per year. - **Government-funded scholarships**: The **New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarship (NZIDRS)** was phased out in 2023, but PhD students can still access funding through the **New Zealand Scholarships** programme if their home country is eligible. - **External funding**: Organisations like the **Marsden Fund** (for science and humanities research) and **Health Research Council** offer grants that may include stipends for international PhD students. ## How to Apply for Scholarships The application process varies by scholarship type, but the following steps are common: 1. **Research early**: Start at least 12 months before your intended start date. Scholarship deadlines are often earlier than programme application deadlines. 2. **Check eligibility**: Carefully review eligibility criteria, including nationality, academic background, English language requirements, and any field-of-study restrictions. 3. **Prepare documents**: Typical requirements include academic transcripts (translated into English), English language test scores (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.5–7.0), a personal statement or research proposal, letters of recommendation, and a CV. 4. **Submit application**: For government scholarships, apply through the New Zealand High Commission or Embassy in your home country. For university scholarships, apply directly through the university's online application portal. 5. **Apply for a student visa**: Once you receive a scholarship offer, apply for a Fee Paying Student Visa through Immigration New Zealand's Immigration Online portal. Processing times are typically 4–8 weeks. ## Practical Tips for Maximising Scholarship Success - **Apply to multiple scholarships**: Don't rely on a single source of funding. Apply for both government and university scholarships, and consider partial scholarships if full funding is not available. - **Demonstrate academic excellence**: Most scholarships require a strong academic record (equivalent to a New Zealand A- average or higher). For postgraduate scholarships, a research proposal that aligns with the university's strengths can be a significant advantage. - **Highlight leadership and community involvement**: Many scholarships, especially the New Zealand Scholarships, value candidates who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country's development. - **Meet English language requirements early**: Most scholarships require IELTS Academic 6.5 or higher. Prepare for and take the test well in advance of deadlines. - **Check for regional preferences**: Some scholarships are available only to students from specific countries or regions (e.g., Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia). If you are eligible, these often have less competition. ## FAQ ### Q1: Can I work while holding a scholarship in New Zealand? Yes, most scholarships allow you to work part-time during your studies. International students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled holidays. However, some scholarships may have specific conditions (e.g., a "no work" clause for full-cost scholarships), so always check the terms of your award. ### Q2: Are there scholarships for short-term study (e.g., exchange programmes or summer schools)? Yes, several universities offer scholarships specifically for exchange students. For example, the **University of Auckland Exchange Scholarship** provides NZD $2,000–$5,000 for one semester of study. Additionally, the **New Zealand Government's Short-Term Training Scholarships** programme offers funding for specific short-term courses in fields like renewable energy, agriculture, and health. Check with your home university's international office for bilateral exchange programmes. ### Q3: What happens if I don't meet the scholarship conditions (e.g., maintain a certain GPA)? Most scholarships require you to maintain a minimum academic performance (e.g., a B+ average or higher) to continue receiving funding. If you fall below this threshold, you may be placed on probation for one semester. If you do not improve, the scholarship may be revoked. It is important to understand the renewal conditions of your specific scholarship and seek academic support if needed. ### Q4: Can I apply for a scholarship if I already have an offer of admission? Yes, in most cases you can apply for a scholarship after receiving an offer of admission. However, some university scholarships require you to apply at the same time as your programme application, while others have separate deadlines. Always check the specific scholarship's application timeline. For government scholarships, you typically apply before submitting a programme application. ### Q5: Are there scholarships for postgraduate diploma or certificate programmes? Yes, some scholarships are available for postgraduate diplomas and certificates, though they are less common than for master's or PhD programmes. The New Zealand Scholarships programme covers postgraduate diplomas (up to two years), and some universities offer partial scholarships for postgraduate certificate programmes. Check the specific university's scholarship page for details. ### Q6: Do I need to repay a scholarship if I leave New Zealand early? Most scholarships do not require repayment, but there are exceptions. For example, the New Zealand Scholarships programme requires you to return to your home country for at least two years after completing your studies. If you violate this condition, you may be required to repay the full value of the scholarship. Always read the terms and conditions carefully before accepting an award. ## Sources 1. Education New Zealand — New Zealand Scholarships for International Students (studywithnewzealand.govt.nz) 2. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade — New Zealand Scholarships Programme (mfat.govt.nz) 3. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission — New Zealand Scholarships (cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk) 4. University of Auckland — International Student Scholarships 2026 (auckland.ac.nz) 5. University of Otago — International Scholarships 2026 (otago.ac.nz) 6. Victoria University of Wellington — International Scholarships 2026 (wgtn.ac.nz) 7. University of Canterbury — International Scholarships 2026 (canterbury.ac.nz) 8. Massey University — International Student Scholarships 2026 (massey.ac.nz) 9. University of Waikato — International Scholarships 2026 (waikato.ac.nz) 10. Lincoln University — International Scholarships 2026 (lincoln.ac.nz) 11. Auckland University of Technology — International Scholarships 2026 (aut.ac.nz) 12. Immigration New Zealand — Student Visa Requirements (immigration.govt.nz) 13. New Zealand Qualifications Authority — Scholarship Recognition (nzqa.govt.nz)