New Zealand is a top choice for high-achieving students seeking world-class education with meaningful financial support. This guide curates the most important fully-funded New Zealand scholarships for international-students, spanning government awards, university-funded packages, and research institute opportunities. You’ll find clear summaries of benefits, coverage, stipends, deadlines, and how to apply.
Why New Zealand? Universities consistently rank among the best globally, research output is strong across STEM and social sciences, and international students benefit from safe cities and diverse communities. Many programs here don’t just waive tuition—they also include living stipends, travel, and health insurance to reduce your total cost of study.
To help you move fast, every listing ends with a direct link to the official application portal so you can apply immediately. When timelines differ by country or intake, we highlight that clearly that always confirm the exact deadline on the portal before you submit.
Benefits
The benefits that come as a result of having full New Zealand Scholarships. One is that they enable learners to avoid the financial burden associated with school fees, and thus concentrate more on their studies and participation in extracurricular activities. Besides, this gives them exposure to rich cultural environment of New Zealand and access to advanced educational system as well as research facilities that prepare them for prosperous careers.
Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded New Zealand Scholarships
- Demonstrated academic excellence.
- Proficiency in English.
- Meet specific age requirements for some scholarships.
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are the most prestigious, government-funded scholarship for students from developing countries. They aim to support academic excellence and leadership development, while building a strong connection between New Zealand and partner nations. The scholarship is a key component of New Zealand’s official aid program and covers all major costs of studying, ensuring a truly immersive experience for the recipient.
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, weekly living allowance, establishment allowance, and return airfare.
- Coverage: Provides full financial support for undergraduate and postgraduate study.
- Stipend: NZ615 per week living allowance,plus NZ3,000 establishment allowance.
- Deadline: Applications are open from 1 February to 28 February 2026 for most countries.
- Application Process: The application is typically online through the official website. You must be a citizen of an eligible country and have a strong academic record.
- Start Application Process: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship
This scholarship is part of the broader Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan. It provides opportunities for talented individuals from selected developing Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate studies in New Zealand. The scholarship is designed to address the human resource development needs of these countries by fostering a new generation of leaders and innovators.
- Benefits: Covers full tuition, a living allowance, travel costs, and medical insurance.
- Coverage: Full tertiary scholarship for postgraduate studies.
- Stipend: Varies, but includes a living allowance and other allowances.
- Deadline: Varies by country, applicants should check the official website for specific dates.
- Application Process: Candidates must apply through their home country’s nominating agency.
- Start Application Process with Commonwealth Scholarship
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
The University of Auckland offers this competitive scholarship to attract high-achieving international students to its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The scholarship recognizes academic merit and helps the university promote a diverse and multicultural campus environment. It is a one-off award that significantly reduces the financial burden of tuition for top students.
- Benefits: A one-off payment towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: Up to NZ$10,000 applied to compulsory tuition fees.
- Stipend: This is a tuition fee waiver, not a stipend for living costs.
- Deadline: The university has multiple application rounds, so deadlines vary.
- Application Process: The scholarship is applied for at the same time as your program application. No separate application is required.
- Start Application Process: University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship Official Website
University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship
This is a highly sought-after scholarship for domestic and international students pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Auckland. The scholarship is awarded to candidates with an excellent academic record and significant research potential. The purpose of this scholarship is to support top research talent and contribute to high-quality research outputs.
- Benefits: A stipend and a tuition fee waiver.
- Coverage: Covers domestic tuition fees and an annual stipend for up to three years.
- Stipend: The annual stipend is NZ$34,569 for 2025.
- Deadline: The scholarship has four annual application rounds.
- Application Process: You are automatically considered for the scholarship when you apply for admission to an approved doctoral program.
University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships
The University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity designed to attract outstanding international PhD candidates. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and research potential, providing comprehensive support for students dedicated to advanced research in any discipline offered at the university. This scholarship is one of the most generous in New Zealand.
- Benefits: Full tuition fee coverage and an annual living stipend.
- Coverage: Covers domestic tuition fees for up to 36 months.
- Stipend: An annual stipend of NZ$33,624.
- Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round.
- Application Process: You must first be accepted into a PhD program, and then you will be invited to apply for the scholarship through the university’s online portal, eVision.
- Start Application Process with canada graduate research scholarship
University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship
The University of Waikato offers this scholarship to attract academically talented international students from a wide range of countries. It is a merit-based award that aims to support students who have the potential to become global ambassadors for the university. The scholarship helps to reduce the financial cost of studying in New Zealand.
- Benefits: A contribution towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: A fee waiver or discount on tuition.
- Stipend: This is a tuition fee waiver, not a stipend for living costs.
- Deadline: Applications are accepted at any time, but it’s recommended to apply at least 8 to 12 weeks before your course starts.
- Application Process: A separate application is required and can be submitted online.
Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Scholarship
The Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Scholarship is for new international students with strong academic backgrounds. Named after the Māori word for “treasure,” this scholarship celebrates the university’s commitment to its international student community and supports students in their first year of study.
- Benefits: A contribution to tuition fees.
- Coverage: A tuition fee waiver of NZ5,000orNZ10,000.
- Stipend: No stipend for living expenses is included.
- Deadline: The university has multiple intake dates; check their official website for the next application deadline.
- Application Process: This scholarship is typically awarded based on your application for admission to the university.
Wellington Doctoral Scholarship (Victoria University of Wellington)
This scholarship is designed to encourage and support doctoral study at Victoria University of Wellington. It is a highly competitive award open to both domestic and international students based on academic merit. The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to allow students to focus fully on their research.
- Benefits: An annual stipend and coverage of domestic tuition fees.
- Coverage: Provides full domestic tuition fee coverage for up to three years.
- Stipend: NZ$32,000 per annum.
- Deadline: There are three annual closing dates: March 1, July 1, and November 1.
- Application Process: You apply for the scholarship as part of your application for admission into the doctoral program.
University of Canterbury International First Year Scholarship
This scholarship is for international students with strong academic abilities who are beginning their first year of an undergraduate degree at the University of Canterbury. It is a valuable award that recognizes academic achievement and provides a financial contribution towards the cost of study. It is an excellent opportunity for new students to get a head start.
- Benefits: A contribution towards first-year tuition fees.
- Coverage: A tuition fee waiver of NZ$5,000.
- Stipend: No stipend for living expenses is included.
- Deadline: Deadlines are specific to different regions; check the university’s website for details.
- Application Process: The scholarship is typically offered based on your application for admission to the university.
Lincoln University International Pathway Merit Scholarship
This scholarship is for new international students who are entering a pathway program at Lincoln University, such as the Certificate or Diploma in University Studies. The scholarship is a credit towards tuition fees and is awarded to students who show great academic promise and are committed to continuing their education at the university.
- Benefits: A credit towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: A tuition fee waiver of NZ$2,500.
- Stipend: This scholarship does not provide a stipend for living expenses.
- Deadline: Deadlines for this scholarship vary by semester.
- Application Process: The scholarship is automatically considered upon application and confirmed enrolment in an eligible pathway program.
Massey University Doctoral Scholarship
Massey University offers this scholarship to attract high-achieving doctoral candidates. It is designed to support exceptional research talent and provides a generous stipend and fee waiver. This is one of the highest-value centrally-funded doctoral scholarships available in New Zealand.
- Benefits: A substantial annual stipend and a tuition fee waiver.
- Coverage: Covers tuition fees for three years.
- Stipend: NZ$25,000 per annum (2021 value).
- Deadline: Applications can be made prior to enrolment and until full registration.
- Application Process: You must apply for the scholarship as part of your admission to the doctoral program.
- Start Application Process with PhD Scholarships for International Students
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) International Scholarships
AUT offers a wide range of scholarships to international students at all levels of study. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic achievement, leadership, and contribution to the community. They can be general awards or specific to particular faculties or fields of study.
- Benefits: Varies, but can include a contribution towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: Varies depending on the specific scholarship, from partial to full tuition waivers.
- Stipend: Varies by scholarship.
- Deadline: Deadlines vary by scholarship; check the official scholarship database.
- Application Process: You can search and apply for scholarships through the AUT scholarships database on their website.
New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
Funded by the New Zealand Government, this scholarship is for international students who demonstrate exceptional academic merit and propose research that will have a positive impact on New Zealand’s economy or society. The scholarship is highly competitive and provides a full scholarship package.
- Benefits: Full tuition fees and an annual living stipend.
- Coverage: Covers tuition fees for three years.
- Stipend: NZ$25,000 per annum.
- Deadline: Varies, check the official website for details on application rounds.
- Application Process: Applications are made through Education New Zealand. You must have a strong academic record and a detailed research proposal.
- Start Application Process: New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
The MacDiarmid Institute PhD Scholarships
The MacDiarmid Institute, New Zealand’s premier research organization in materials science and nanotechnology, offers PhD scholarships to talented students. The scholarship is highly attractive as it provides generous financial support and an opportunity to work with leading researchers in a collaborative environment.
- Benefits: A tax-free annual stipend and coverage of student fees.
- Coverage: Covers all student fees.
- Stipend: NZ$38,500 per annum (tax-free).
- Deadline: Deadlines vary as scholarships are often tied to specific research projects.
- Application Process: You must apply by submitting a CV and cover letter to the relevant research professor.
Fulbright New Zealand US Graduate Awards
This award is for US citizens who wish to undertake a master’s or PhD degree or conduct independent research in New Zealand. The scholarship promotes cross-cultural academic exchange and provides comprehensive funding to cover various costs of study.
- Benefits: A cash payment towards costs of study, a return airfare, and basic health insurance.
- Coverage: Varies by award, but provides a significant financial contribution.
- Stipend: Includes a cash payment, which can be used for living costs.
- Deadline: Deadlines are typically in the fall for the following academic year.
- Application Process: You must apply through the Fulbright New Zealand website, following their specific application guidelines.
New Zealand ASEAN Scholar Awards
These awards are part of the New Zealand Government’s official aid program and are specifically for students from Southeast Asian (ASEAN) countries. They are designed to support sustainable development and foster strong ties between New Zealand and the ASEAN region. The scholarship is a full tertiary scholarship.
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, a living allowance, and travel costs.
- Coverage: Full scholarship for postgraduate study in New Zealand.
- Stipend: Includes a living allowance and other benefits.
- Deadline: Deadlines vary by country; check the official website.
- Application Process: Apply online through the official website, meeting specific citizenship and residency requirements.
Lincoln University International Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship is designed to assist new international students who are beginning their undergraduate studies at Lincoln University. The award is based on academic merit and helps to offset the cost of tuition, making education at Lincoln more accessible to international students.
- Benefits: A financial contribution towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: A tuition fee waiver ranging from NZ7,000toNZ10,000.
- Stipend: No stipend for living expenses.
- Deadline: Deadlines vary by semester, check the university’s website for specific dates.
- Application Process: The scholarship is automatically considered for eligible students who apply for admission to an undergraduate program at Lincoln University.
- Start Application Process: Lincoln University International Undergraduate Scholarship Official Website
University of Otago Global Scholarships
The University of Otago Global Scholarships are for new international bachelor’s degree students from a selected list of countries in Asia. The scholarship is automatically assessed during the admission process, making it a convenient option for students seeking financial assistance to start their academic journey in New Zealand.
- Benefits: A contribution towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: A tuition fee waiver of NZ$15,000.
- Stipend: No stipend for living expenses.
- Deadline: No separate application is required as it is part of the admission process.
- Application Process: You are automatically assessed for this scholarship when you apply for admission to a Bachelor’s program.
University of Auckland India High Achievers Scholarship
This scholarship is specifically for new international students from India who are enrolling in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the University of Auckland. The scholarship is a testament to the university’s commitment to attracting top talent from India and provides a significant financial boost to awardees.
- Benefits: A financial contribution towards tuition fees.
- Coverage: A tuition fee waiver of up to NZ$20,000.
- Stipend: No stipend for living expenses.
- Deadline: The university has multiple application rounds; check the official website for specific dates.
- Application Process: A separate application is required, typically to be submitted around six weeks before the closing date.
- Start Application Process: University of Auckland India High Achievers Scholarship Official Website
University of Canterbury Doctoral Scholarships
The University of Canterbury offers this scholarship to encourage and support doctoral study for both domestic and international students. It provides a generous stipend and covers tuition fees, allowing high-achieving candidates to fully dedicate themselves to their research. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and is highly competitive.
- Benefits: An annual stipend and coverage of tuition fees.
- Coverage: Covers domestic tuition fees.
- Stipend: NZ$28,000 per annum (2024 value).
- Deadline: You are automatically considered for the scholarship when you apply for admission to the doctoral program.
- Application Process: You are automatically considered for the scholarship as part of your application to enrol in a doctoral degree.
Application Process
- Identify suitable scholarship programs.
- Gather all necessary documentation.
- Fill out and submit application forms accurately.
Required Documents for Fully Funded Scholarships
- Application form
- Transcript Result Card
- Degree
- English Letter (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, SAT, or ACT)
- CV or Resume
- Study Plan or Personal Statement
- Recommendation Letters
- Bank Statements (for some scholarships)
- Passport/ID Card
- Acceptance letter
- Medical certificate
- Award Certificates (for strong profile)
- Make copies of all important documents.
Learn complete premium guidelines for detailed document requirements
Deadline
- Deadlines vary by scholarship program.
- Plan and start your application process early.
- Check each scholarship’s specific deadline and requirements.
Tips for an Effective Application
To improve your chances of winning a fully funded New Zealand Scholarships, tailor your application to meet the criteria of each scholarship program. Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and career goals. Ensure you have strong letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your abilities and character.
Selection Process
The selection process for Fully Funded New Zealand Scholarships generally includes a review of academic records, personal statements, and recommendation letters. The candidates who are shortlisted may be called for interviews or the conduct of additional assessments. The selection criteria focus on academic merit, potential contributions to the field, and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives.
Notification of Results
Candidates will be informed of the outcome of their applications via email or mail after the review process is completed. Successful applicants will receive a scholarship offer detailing the terms, including the duration of the scholarship, financial support, and any other conditions. Feedback may be available for unsuccessful applicants upon request.
Preparing for Departure
Once you accept a scholarship offer, begin preparing for your move to New Zealand. This involves applying for a student visa, making travel arrangements, and looking into accommodation options. Orientation sessions provided by many scholarship programs help students acclimate to studying and living in New Zealand.
Settling into New Zealand
Orientation programs designed by educational institutions or scholarship sponsors assist new students in adjusting to life in New Zealand. These programs cover important topics such as academic expectations, campus resources, and cultural adaptation, aiding in a smooth transition.
Scholarship Responsibilities
Fully Funded New Zealand Scholarships recipients are expected to maintain high academic standards and fulfill any obligations specified by the scholarship provider. This might include achieving a minimum GPA, engaging in research or community activities, and living up to the host institution’s code of conduct.
