New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026
About this scholarship
New Zealand Government Scholarships, including Manaaki scholarships, support eligible international students to study in New Zealand with funding for tuition, living costs, travel, insurance, and related study expenses.
New Zealand Government Scholarships are funded by the New Zealand Government to help eligible international students undertake higher education in New Zealand. These awards are widely known through the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships framework and are aimed especially at students from eligible partner and developing countries.
The programme supports study at Bachelor, Master, and PhD level, depending on the applicant's country and the specific scholarship round. Scholars study at approved New Zealand tertiary institutions across a wide range of academic disciplines, from science and engineering to business, education, health, law, and environmental fields.
Based on the referenced postings, the scholarship is generally fully funded. Support may include full tuition fees, a weekly living stipend, establishment or accommodation support, return airfare, health or medical insurance, and allowances for books, research, or thesis-related costs. Some awards may also reimburse visa fees, and certain longer programmes may include funded home-country visits. Exact benefits can vary by intake and study level.
Eligibility is usually limited to citizens of approved countries. Applicants normally need to meet the admission requirements of their chosen New Zealand institution and programme, satisfy student visa conditions, and demonstrate English language proficiency if required by the university or scholarship process. Postgraduate applicants may also need relevant work experience, particularly where the scholarship prioritises development impact and leadership potential.
Applications are typically made through the official New Zealand Government scholarship system during the annual application cycle. Because eligibility rules, participating countries, priority fields, and document requirements can change, applicants should always check the current scholarship guidance and their country's eligibility page before applying.
Eligibility
Who can apply for this scholarship
Open to citizens of eligible countries. Applicants are generally expected to meet the entry requirements for their chosen programme at an approved New Zealand institution, satisfy New Zealand student visa requirements, and demonstrate suitability for the scholarship. Some referenced postings state an age range of 18 to 40 years at the start of study. For postgraduate study, relevant work experience may be required.
Requirements
Documents typically needed to apply
Language requirements
Proof of English language proficiency may be required by the scholarship and/or host institution.
Where you can use this
Open positions accepting New Zealand Government Scholarships.
