The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2025-2026 offer fully funded opportunities for international students to pursue undergraduate and master’s degree programmes in New Zealand. These prestigious scholarships cover all key expenses, including tuition fees, living allowance, medical insurance, travel costs, and research and thesis expenses for postgraduate students. This scholarship programme is not just about academic achievement but also focusses on nurturing global leaders who will contribute to their home countries’ development after completing their studies in New Zealand.
Scholarship Summary:
- Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters
- Host Country: New Zealand
- Institutions: Manaaki New Zealand Scholars can study at 11 approved institutions in New Zealand.
- Fields of Study: A wide range of programs are available.
- Application Period: 01 February 2025 – 29 February 2025
- Scholarship Duration: Depends upon the selected course.
Benefits of Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships:
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are fully funded, providing:
- Full tuition fees coverage.
- Living allowance of NZ$531 per week to cover basic living expenses.
- For online study from your home country, the stipend will be adjusted to reflect local living costs.
- Establishment allowance of NZ$3,000 to assist with setup costs in New Zealand, such as accommodation, textbooks, and other materials.
- Medical insurance for the duration of the program.
- Tutoring support up to NZ$1000, if required.
- Travel to and from New Zealand, including return travel at the end of the scholarship.
- Travel insurance during travel to and from New Zealand.
- Travel home during the scholarship: Scholars studying for over 1.6 years can travel home to visit family (1-2 trips, subject to border restrictions).
- Managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) costs, if required by the home country upon return.
- COVID-19 testing and immunisation reimbursement, if necessary for study or transit.
- Reintegration allowance of NZ$1000 to assist with costs upon returning to the home country.
- Research and thesis costs for postgraduate students.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Required Language:
- English proficiency is required. Depending on the course and institution, applicants may need to provide proof of English language skills (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE scores).
2. Eligible Countries:
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are available to students from selected developing countries.
3. Work Experience:
- One year of full-time work experience (30 hours or more per week), OR
- Two years of part-time work experience (up to 29 hours per week).
4. Age Requirement:
- Candidates must be 18 years of age or older when starting the scholarship.
5. Contribution to Country’s Development:
- Candidates must demonstrate how they plan to contribute to their country’s social or economic development after completing their studies. The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships aim to invest in future leaders who will bring about positive change in their home countries.
6. Residency requirements:
- Applicants must have been residents of their home country for at least two years prior to applying for the scholarship.
7. Academic and English Requirements:
- Scholarship applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements and English language proficiency required by their preferred institution and course:
- For postgraduate studies: Generally, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English.
- For undergraduate studies: Generally, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5, or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English.
Application Process:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
- Complete the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships online eligibility test to check if you are eligible to apply. The test will provide you with an eligibility code if you qualify. Take the eligibility test here.
Step 2: Register for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Account
- After confirming eligibility, register for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Account using your eligibility code. This account will allow you to start and submit your scholarship application.
- Register here.
Step 3: Set a Password for Your Account
- You will receive an email to set your account password. Check your spam folder in case the email is filtered. Follow the link to complete your registration.
Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Application
- Once your account is set up, complete the online application by filling out all required sections. You can work on your application in multiple sessions and save your progress.
- Submit your application before the deadline for your country.
Application Deadline:
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships application portal opens on 1st February 2025 and closes at midday on 29th February 2025.
Official Website
