Scholarships & Financial Aid
Funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for international students in New Zealand
Scholarships & Financial Aid for New Zealand
Numerous scholarships are available for international students in New Zealand. Below is a comprehensive list of the most notable funding opportunities, along with eligibility details and deadlines.
Scholarships can cover partial to full tuition fees and sometimes include living allowances. Competition is strong, so starting your application early and presenting a strong academic profile is key.
Scholarship Snapshot
Available Scholarships
12+ programs
Coverage Range
10% – 100% tuition
Application Window
6–12 months before intake
Nexsus Assistance
Free scholarship matching
Scholarship Application Process
Research & Match
Identify scholarships that align with your academic profile and goals
Prepare Materials
Draft your personal statement, gather transcripts, and request recommendations
Submit on Time
Lodge applications before deadlines — early submissions are often prioritized
Track & Follow Up
Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any requests
Available Scholarships
5 scholarships| # | Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships | Fully funded — tuition, NZ $531 weekly stipend, establishment allowance, flights, visa costs and insurance | Students from eligible developing countries. Recipients must return home for at least two years after graduating | Late February – March |
2 | New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships | Fully funded — tuition, weekly stipend, establishment allowance and return travel | Postgraduate students from Commonwealth countries, awarded under the Manaaki programme | Varies |
3 | NZ Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarships | NZ $28,000 annual stipend, tuition up to NZ $10,000 a year, plus insurance and visa costs | PhD candidates from developing countries researching agricultural greenhouse gas mitigation | Varies |
4 | Short-Term Training Scholarships | Fully funded — course and visa fees, return airfare, medical insurance and a living allowance | Professionals from developing nations undertaking short-term training | Varies |
5 | ADB-Japan Scholarship Program | Full tuition and living allowances | Students from ADB borrowing member countries at partner institutions | Varies by institution |
Scholarship Details
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
NZ Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarships
Short-Term Training Scholarships
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
University Scholarships in New Zealand
7 scholarships across 5 institutionsUniversity of Auckland
International Student Excellence Scholarship
Up to NZ $10,000
University of Otago
International Research Master's Scholarship
NZ $18,204 annual stipend plus a one-year tuition remission at the domestic rate
Vice-Chancellor's International Postgraduate Scholarship
Up to NZ $15,000 undergraduate, up to NZ $10,000 postgraduate
Victoria University of Wellington
Tongarewa Scholarship
NZ $5,000 – $10,000
Auckland University of Technology
AUT International Excellence Scholarships
From NZ $5,000 towards fees, with higher tiers available
Lincoln University
International Scholarships
NZ $7,000 – $10,000
International Taught Master Merit Scholarships
NZ $7,000 or NZ $10,000
Scholarship values are indicative and subject to change. For updated and additional information, including research and PhD scholarships, check the university's official page or ask Nexsus for free scholarship matching.
Types of Scholarships Available
Merit-Based
Awarded based on academic achievement, test scores, and leadership qualities. Typically covers 25–100% of tuition.
Need-Based
Designed for students who demonstrate financial need. May cover tuition, living costs, or both.
Country-Specific
Government or institution scholarships targeting students from specific countries or regions.
Research Scholarships
Funded positions for postgraduate students engaged in university research projects.
Sports & Talent
Scholarships for students with exceptional athletic or artistic abilities.
University Grants
Internal funding offered by specific universities to attract international talent.
Scholarship Application Tips
Apply early — most scholarships have limited spots and strict deadlines
Prepare a compelling personal statement highlighting achievements and goals
Check university-specific scholarships in addition to national programs
Maintain strong academic records throughout your current studies
Gather strong recommendation letters from academic or professional referees
Apply to multiple scholarships to maximize your chances of funding
Highlight community service, leadership, and extracurricular activities
Contact Nexsus for help identifying scholarships you may be eligible for
Need Help with Your Application?
Our expert counselors are ready to guide you through every step of your journey to New Zealand.