Ultimate Guide: New Zealand Scholarships for International Tertiary Students (2026)

1. What Are the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships?

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are government-funded opportunities designed to support international learners — including undergraduate, postgraduate, vocational, and short-term professional training — to study in New Zealand or within its Pacific partner universities. (NZ Scholarships)

These scholarships aim to build future leaders with the skills and expertise needed to drive sustainable development in their home countries. (NZ Scholarships)

check out: Common Reasons Scholarship Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid Them)

2. Who Can Apply?

Eligibility is based on your country of citizenship and the scholarship category you’re targeting. Applicants must:

• Hold the citizenship of an eligible partner country.

• Meet age and eligibility criteria (e.g., graduate level, relevant experience for postgraduate awards).

• Complete the online eligibility questionnaire before applying. (NZ Scholarships)

⚠️ Note: Not all countries are eligible — traditionally, many Pacific and developing nation regions are prioritised. Check your country’s status on the official site before preparing your application. (NZ Scholarships)

3. Types of Scholarships Available

a. Undergraduate & Postgraduate Scholarships
Fund full-time study at New Zealand universities for degrees ranging from Bachelor’s to PhD level. (NZ Scholarships)

b. Thematic Short-Term Training Scholarships
Short courses (2–4 weeks) focusing on areas like governance, public health, climate change, renewable energy, and resilience leadership. (NZ Scholarships)

c. Vocational & English Language Training
Designed for mid-career professionals to gain practical skills or support officials’ language training. (NZ Scholarships)

4. What Does the Scholarship Cover?

A full Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship generally includes:
✔ Full tuition fees at the selected New Zealand tertiary institution
✔ Return air travel and travel insurance
✔ Living allowance to cover basic costs
✔ Medical insurance in New Zealand
✔ Establishment and research support funds
✔ Return travel home during long programmes (depending on duration) (NZ Scholarships)

This makes it one of the most comprehensive government scholarship programmes for international students globally. (NZ Scholarships)

5. When to Apply — 2026 Dates

🔔 Tertiary applications open: Midnight, 1 March 2026
🔔 Closing deadline: Midday, 31 March 2026

These dates apply to the upcoming intake for study starting in 2027. (NZ Scholarships)

6. How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simplified process for 2026 scholarship applicants:

1. Check Eligibility
   — Complete the online questionnaire to confirm you are eligible based on your citizenship and background. (NZ Scholarships)

2. Review Recommended Study Subjects
   — Each region has priority subjects designed to support national development goals. (NZ Scholarships)

3. Create an Account & Apply Online
   — Once open, register for the Manaaki Scholarship portal and start your application. (NZ Scholarships)

4. Submit Supporting Documentation
   — This may include academic transcripts, personal statements, work experience evidence, and health/visa docs.

5. Prepare for Selection Interviews
   — Interviewers assess your academic plans, motivation, and long-term contribution to your home country. (NZ Scholarships)

6. Await Scholarship Offer & Visa Process
   — If successful, you’ll receive a scholarship offer and begin your student visa application.

7. Top Tips for Success

Start Early – Applications can take weeks to prepare. (NZ Scholarships)
Research Study Subjects – Apply for fields that match both country needs and New Zealand priorities. (NZ Scholarships)
Demonstrate Impact – Show how your studies will benefit your community or country. (NZ Scholarships)

8. Is This Right for You?

If you’re looking for fully funded study abroad opportunities that cover tuition, travel, living costs, and more — and you’re eligible based on your nationality — the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are worth exploring. (NZ Scholarships)

Although not all countries are eligible, the programme remains one of the most generous government scholarships globally and highly competitive.

Final Notes

Keep an eye on the official New Zealand Scholarships website for updates, detailed guidance documents, and country-specific requirements:
👉 https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/international-tertiary-students/ (NZ Scholarships)