New Zealand Scholarships
New Zealand Government scholarships for international students from eligible developing countries to pursue academic study and professional development in New Zealand.
Overview
New Zealand Scholarships are awarded by the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) to support citizens of developing countries to gain the skills and knowledge needed to drive development in their home countries. The program encompasses New Zealand International Scholarships for long-term academic study at New Zealand universities, New Zealand Pacific Scholarships for Pacific Island nations, and Commonwealth Scholarships. Scholarship types include undergraduate, postgraduate (master's and PhD), short-term professional development, and the New Zealand Excellence Awards.
What You Can Find Here
- New Zealand International Scholarships for postgraduate study (master's and PhD) at New Zealand universities
- New Zealand Pacific Scholarships for Pacific Island nations (undergraduate and postgraduate)
- Commonwealth Scholarships for study in New Zealand
- Short-term professional development awards
- Full tuition, living allowance, travel, and medical insurance coverage
- New Zealand Excellence Awards for outstanding international students
Who Should Use This
- Citizens from eligible developing countries seeking postgraduate degrees at New Zealand universities
- Pacific Island citizens qualifying for New Zealand Pacific Scholarship programs
- Development sector professionals from eligible countries seeking short-term professional development
- Applicants who commit to returning to their home country after completing their award
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Check eligible countries and available scholarship types at mfat.govt.nz/scholarships
- Step 2: Applications are managed through New Zealand embassies and high commissions in eligible countries
- Step 3: Contact your nearest New Zealand diplomatic post for country-specific application requirements and deadlines
- Step 4: Prepare application documents: academic transcripts, personal statement, referee reports, and employment history
- Step 5: Submit your application by the country-specific deadline and participate in interviews if shortlisted
Things to Check Before Applying
- Eligible countries and available scholarship types vary - check with your local New Zealand diplomatic mission
- Return home requirement: scholars must return to their home country after completing their award
- New Zealand Pacific Scholarships have different criteria from International Scholarships
- Applications are highly competitive - a strong development-oriented personal statement is essential
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are eligible for New Zealand Government Scholarships?
NZ Government Scholarships are available to citizens of developing countries in the Pacific, Southeast Asia, South and Central Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Check MFAT website for the current list.
What level of study do New Zealand scholarships cover?
Postgraduate level (master's and PhD) is the primary focus. Pacific scholarships also cover undergraduate degrees. Short-term professional development awards are also available.
Do I need to choose a university before applying?
No. You apply to the scholarship program first. If selected, you work with the scholarship administrators to identify a suitable New Zealand university and program.
How do New Zealand Pacific Scholarships differ?
Pacific Scholarships are specifically for citizens of Pacific Island countries (Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, etc.) and may cover undergraduate study in addition to postgraduate programs.
Are there New Zealand scholarships for short professional development?
Yes. The New Zealand Professional Development and Research Collaboration Programme funds short-term professional development activities of 3-6 months for eligible applicants.
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