Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Eligibility 2025

Are you an ambitious student from Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, or Latin America dreaming of studying in New Zealand without worrying about tuition fees, living costs, or travel expenses? The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships could be your gateway to world-class education in one of the most beautiful and peaceful countries on earth.

Every year, thousands of international students apply for fully funded opportunities through the Manaaki program — and for good reason. With generous financial support, a focus on development-oriented education, and access to top-ranked universities, this scholarship is one of the most prestigious and life-changing awards offered by the New Zealand government.

But here’s the catch: the process is competitive, and only the most prepared applicants succeed.

That’s where this guide comes in.

We’ve created the most comprehensive and up-to-date resource available to help you understand exactly what it takes to qualify for the Manaaki scholarship, how to apply, and how to stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD applicant, this guide will walk you through every step—from eligibility criteria and required documents to insider tips and common mistakes to avoid.

Let’s dive into what makes this scholarship so unique, who can apply, and how you can take the first steps toward your academic future in New Zealand.

Table of Contents

What is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship?

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is a flagship international aid initiative funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). Designed to empower students from developing nations, the scholarship supports individuals who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership skills, and a commitment to contributing to the development of their home countries.

The word “Manaaki” is drawn from the Māori language and culture, meaning to support, respect, and care for others, and that spirit is at the heart of this program.

Who is the scholarship for?

Manaaki scholarships are specifically aimed at students from eligible countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific Islands. These scholarships are not simply about academic excellence—they are about training future leaders who will return home and make a positive impact in areas like public health, agriculture, education, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and governance.

Scholarship Types Available

The Manaaki program offers several scholarship categories:

Undergraduate Degrees—For students pursuing a first degree in a wide range of fields
Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s Degrees—Both coursework and research-based
PhD Programs—For future researchers, policymakers, and academic leaders

Some short-term training and vocational options may also be available, depending on your country and development priorities.

Why the New Zealand Government Offers It

This scholarship is part of New Zealand’s international cooperation and development policy. The country invests in education as a pathway to:

Build global partnerships
Promote sustainable development
Strengthen economic and social resilience in developing countries
Share New Zealand’s values of equity, inclusion, and innovation

What Makes Manaaki Different?

Compared to many other scholarship schemes, Manaaki is known for

Full funding: From tuition to travel, setup costs, and living stipends
Diversity and inclusion: A broad eligibility list and welcoming academic institutions
Development focus: You’re expected to return and contribute to your country’s growth
Life experience: New Zealand offers a safe, clean, English-speaking environment with strong support for international students

Who Can Apply?

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is not open to everyone—it’s a targeted program designed to benefit students from developing countries who can bring their skills and knowledge back home to make a meaningful impact. If you’re serious about applying, the first and most important step is to understand whether you’re eligible.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the key eligibility criteria:

Country & Regional Eligibility

Manaaki scholarships are available to students from selected countries in:

Africa
Examples: Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa, Rwanda
Pacific Islands
Examples: Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu
Asia
Examples: Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Nepal, Cambodia, Mongolia
Latin America
Examples: Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Nicaragua

Note: Eligible countries may vary slightly each year based on New Zealand’s foreign policy and development focus. Always check the official Manaaki website for the latest country list when applications open.

Age Requirements

While there’s no universal upper age limit, most successful applicants are

In their early to mid-career stage
Typically aged between 18 and 39
Able to clearly show how further study will support their professional and development goals

Level of Study

Eligible applicants can apply for:

Undergraduate programs (for first-time university students)
Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s Degrees (coursework or research-based)
PhD Programs (especially in development-focused disciplines)

Some countries may be restricted to specific study levels—for example, only postgraduate applicants may be accepted from certain regions.

Residency & Citizenship

You must be a citizen and resident of an eligible country at the time of application.
You must not hold citizenship or permanent residency in New Zealand or Australia.
You must not be currently serving in the military.

Return-Home Commitment

Manaaki scholars are required to return to their home country for a minimum period (usually two years) after graduation. This ensures the scholarship contributes directly to development efforts back home.

Additional Criteria (Varies by Country)

Some countries may require:

Minimum years of work experience
Priority field of study (e.g., agriculture, public health, education)
Proof of community involvement or leadership

Quick Self-Check: Are You Eligible?

Ask yourself:

Am I from one of the eligible countries listed?
Do I meet the academic and English requirements?
Am I committed to returning home and contributing to development?
Am I applying for an eligible program at a New Zealand institution?

If you answered yes to all of these, you’re likely on the right track.

Academic and English Requirements

Meeting the general eligibility criteria is the first step—but to move forward in the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship process, you’ll need to prove academic excellence and meet English language proficiency standards.

This section breaks down what that means and how to prepare.

Academic Requirements

The Manaaki Scholarship is highly competitive, and academic performance plays a big role in selection. While no fixed GPA cutoff applies to all countries, here are the general expectations:

Strong academic history—typically equivalent to a B average or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
A completed secondary school qualification (for undergraduate applicants)
A bachelor’s degree with solid grades (for master’s programs)
A master’s degree or first-class honors (for PhD applicants)

Tip: Your academic transcripts should clearly show:

Course titles
Grades
Grading scale (especially if your country uses a different system)
Official stamps or signatures

If your documents are not in English, you’ll need certified translations.

English Language Requirements

All instruction in New Zealand universities is in English. To ensure you can thrive in an academic setting, most universities and scholarship programs require proof of English proficiency through one of the following:

Test	Minimum Score
IELTS (Academic)	6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT	90+ (writing score of 21+)
PTE Academic	58–64+
Cambridge English	C1 Advanced (Score 176+)

Note: Some programs (especially research or health-related) may require higher scores.

Exemptions from English Testing

You may be exempt from submitting a test score if:

You studied for at least 2–3 years in an English-speaking country
Your previous degree was taught entirely in English (with official confirmation)
Your chosen New Zealand university waives the requirement based on your background

Always double-check with your intended university to see what evidence they accept.

Pro Tips for Meeting Language Requirements

Register early for IELTS/TOEFL if needed—test slots fill fast.
Practice with sample tests to get familiar with the format and timing.
Send scores directly to the university and scholarship body if required.
Don’t delay—many applications are rejected or delayed due to missing or late test scores.

Scholarship Benefits

One of the reasons the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is so sought after is that it’s fully funded, covering not just tuition but nearly every major cost of studying and living in New Zealand.

Whether you’re an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD applicant, the financial package is designed to remove financial stress and allow you to focus on your academic and personal growth.

Here’s a full breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Full Tuition Fees

The scholarship covers 100% of your university tuition for the entire duration of your program, whether it’s

An undergraduate degree (3–4 years)
A postgraduate diploma or master’s program (1–2 years)
A PhD program (up to 3–4 years)

You won’t need to worry about university fees or annual increases.

2. Living Stipend

You’ll receive a weekly living allowance of approximately NZD 531, which is enough to cover:

Rent
Utilities
Food and groceries
Local transport
Internet and basic personal expenses

This is paid regularly into your local New Zealand bank account after arrival.

3. Establishment Allowance

You’ll also receive a one-time setup allowance of about NZD 3,000 when you arrive. This can be used for:

Buying furniture or kitchen supplies
Getting a mobile phone or SIM card
Clothing and weather gear
Setting up your accommodation

This is especially helpful for students moving abroad for the first time.

4. Airfare and Travel Costs

The scholarship also covers:

Round-trip airfare from your home country to New Zealand
Domestic travel (if required for study purposes within New Zealand)
Travel insurance for the duration of your study
Travel home at the end of the program

PhD students may also receive one or two return tickets for field research or home visits (depending on the length of study).

5. Additional Academic Support

Depending on your program, you may also receive:

Thesis or research allowances
Support for books and academic materials
Conference participation funding (for postgraduate research students)

These extras help you participate fully in your academic community.

6. Support for Dependents (Limited Cases)

While the Manaaki scholarship does not always cover dependents, in some cases, PhD or postgraduate students may be allowed to:

Apply for family visas (at their own cost)
Receive limited childcare or housing assistance (case-by-case)

It’s important to confirm with MFAT or your institution before assuming support for family members.

Summary Table of Manaaki Benefits

Benefit	Details
Tuition	Full coverage for all eligible programs
Living Allowance	~NZD 531 per week
Setup Allowance	One-time payment (~NZD 3,000)
Flights	Round-trip airfare + travel insurance
Academic Support	Research/thesis costs, books, and field trips
Other	Support services, cultural adjustment help

Required Documents

To apply successfully for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, you’ll need to submit a complete and well-prepared set of documents. Missing or incorrect paperwork is one of the most common reasons applicants are rejected or delayed, so attention to detail is critical.

Below is a checklist of the essential documents you’ll need, along with helpful tips for each.

1. Academic Transcripts and Certificates

You must provide official copies of your academic transcripts and, where applicable:

Secondary school leaving certificates (for undergraduates)
Degree certificates (bachelor’s or master’s)
Transcripts showing courses taken and grades received

Tips:

Documents must be in English or come with certified English translations
Include a grading scale or GPA system if not already stated

2. English Language Test Scores

If required, submit one of the following:

IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge English Advanced (C1)

You’ll need:

Official test results (within the validity period — usually 2 years)
Confirmation that scores meet university/program minimums

Tip: Some applicants may be exempt if they studied in English, but you’ll still need official proof.

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume

A concise document outlining your:

Academic background
Work experience
Volunteer roles or leadership positions
Key achievements and skills

Tip: Keep it 1–2 pages and focus on roles relevant to development or your chosen field of study.

4. Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose (SOP)

This is one of the most critical documents — it’s where you show your motivation and alignment with the scholarship’s goals.

Your SOP should cover:

Why do you want to study in New Zealand
How does your chosen course fit your career goals
How will your education benefit your community or country
Why you’re a good fit for the Manaaki program

Tip: Avoid generic essays — tailor each SOP to your program and reflect development-related goals.

5. Passport Bio Page

A clear scan of the biographical page of your passport is required to verify your identity and nationality.

Ensure all information is visible and readable
Must match your other documentation

Optional: You may also need to provide a passport-style photo (check local requirements)

6. Letters of Recommendation (References)

Most applications require two reference letters from:

Academic instructors
Work supervisors
Project leaders

Letters should:

Be written in English (or officially translated)
Include contact details and official letterhead
Speak to your character, leadership, academic strength, or professional impact

Tip: Request these early — don’t wait until the last minute.

7. Research Proposal (for Master’s by Research or PhD)

If you’re applying for a research-focused postgraduate program, you may need to submit:

A detailed research proposal aligned with New Zealand’s development priorities
Proposed supervisor name or university contact (if known)
Objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes

Tip: Make sure it’s realistic, original, and connected to development goals.

Document Checklist Summary

Document	Required For	Notes
Academic Transcripts	All applicants	Certified and translated if needed
English Test Score	Most applicants	Within validity, it may be exempt in some cases
CV/Resume	All applicants	Highlight development and leadership
Statement of Purpose	All applicants	Tailored and specific
Passport Copy	All applicants	Bio page scan required
Recommendation Letters	All applicants	Academic or professional referees
Research Proposal	Master’s/PhD (research)	Strong alignment with development priorities

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is a multi-stage process that requires planning, attention to detail, and timely submission of all required materials. The following step-by-step breakdown will help ensure you complete your application accurately and give yourself the best chance of success.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before starting your application, carefully review:

Whether your country is on the eligible list
Your academic qualifications
Your English proficiency status
Your commitment to return home after graduation

🔗 Visit the official Manaaki Scholarships website for the most up-to-date eligibility criteria by country.

Step 2: Research Programs and Universities

Choose an eligible program offered by a New Zealand university or institute. Consider:

Fields aligned with your country’s development priorities
Your academic background and professional goals
Availability of research supervision (for PhD applicants)

Tip: Many applicants are required to select at least one preferred program and institution during the application.

Step 3: Prepare All Required Documents

Gather and prepare all necessary documents (see previous section), including:

Academic transcripts
IELTS/TOEFL scores
Personal statement/SOP
Passport copy
CV and references

Start this early, especially for reference letters and English test bookings.

Step 4: Register on the Manaaki Online Portal

Create an account on the Manaaki Scholarship portal once applications open.

Select your country to access the correct application form
Fill in your personal, academic, and professional information
Choose your preferred courses and institutions
Upload your documents in the correct format

Important: Double-check that every field is complete. Incomplete or incorrect forms may result in automatic disqualification.

Step 5: Submit a Strong Personal Statement

You’ll be asked to write or upload a Statement of Purpose (SOP) within the application. This is your chance to:

Explain your career goals
Show how your study will contribute to your country’s development
Highlight leadership and community impact

Tip: Match your answers to the specific goals of the Manaaki program and your selected field.

Step 6: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline

Don’t wait until the last day. Submit early to:

Avoid technical issues
Receive confirmation and updates sooner
Make time for any required corrections

After submission, you’ll receive an email confirmation and a unique application reference number.

Step 7: Await Shortlisting or Interview Invitation

If shortlisted, you may be contacted for:

Additional documents or clarification
Phone, video, or in-person interview (varies by region)
Medical and character checks

This stage typically occurs a few weeks or months after the application deadline.

Step 8: Final Selection and Offer

Successful applicants will receive an official offer letter, including:

Details of your scholarship award
Program and institution confirmation
Travel, visa, and enrollment instructions

You’ll need to accept the offer and complete all visa/immigration steps before traveling to New Zealand.

Summary: Application Checklist

Step	Action
1	Check eligibility for your country
2	Research universities and eligible programs
3	Gather required documents
4	Create a profile on the application portal
5	Fill out and submit your application
6	Watch for interview or verification notices
7	Await final decision and prepare for travel

Application Timeline and Key Deadlines

One of the biggest mistakes scholarship applicants make is missing deadlines — and with the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, there’s no room for late submissions. Application periods are strict and vary slightly depending on your country or region, so it’s essential to start early and stay organized.

Here’s what you need to know about the typical timeline and key dates for the Manaaki application process.

General Application Period

For most eligible countries, applications open and close within this general window:

Opens: February
Closes: Late March

However, exact dates vary slightly by region or country, so you must check the official MFAT scholarship site each year when the portal opens.

Sample Timeline by Region

Region	Applications Open	Applications Close
Africa	Early February	Late March
Asia	Early February	Late March
Pacific Islands	Early February	Late March
Latin America	Early February	Late March

Note: Some postgraduate or research-specific tracks may have rolling applications, especially for PhD candidates — always verify your institution’s internal deadlines too.

After You Apply

Here’s a rough breakdown of what happens after you submit your application:

Timeline	What Happens
March – May	Shortlisting, initial review
May – July	Interviews and verifications (if applicable)
August – October	Final selection and offer letters sent out
November – January	Visa applications, travel prep, pre-departure orientation
February (following year)	Students arrive and begin studying in New Zealand

Pro Tips for Staying Ahead of the Timeline

Set multiple calendar reminders (2 weeks before the deadline, 1 week before, and 48 hours before)
Begin collecting transcripts, test scores, and references at least 2–3 months in advance
Don’t wait for the deadline — submit as early as possible
Track deadlines for both the Manaaki portal and your chosen university

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Even well-qualified applicants can be rejected from the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship due to avoidable errors. With thousands of students competing for a limited number of spots, small mistakes can disqualify your application, even if you meet all the core eligibility criteria.

Below are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Applying Without Checking Country Eligibility

Too many applicants jump into the process without confirming whether their country is currently eligible. Each year, the list of eligible countries may change based on New Zealand’s development focus.

Solution: Always check the official country list when the application portal opens. Do not assume past eligibility applies.

2. Submitting Incomplete Applications

Missing documents — such as references, English test scores, or transcripts — will automatically disqualify you. Many applicants also forget to upload a required section or fail to answer all mandatory questions.

Solution: Use a checklist (like the one in Section 6) and double-check your uploads before submitting.

3. Writing a Generic or Weak Statement of Purpose

A one-size-fits-all personal statement that isn’t tailored to the scholarship’s goals is a major red flag. Reviewers want to see your motivation, development impact, and connection to your field, not just that you want to study abroad.

Solution: Craft a unique, focused SOP that reflects:

Why New Zealand
How does your study align with development needs
Your leadership potential and plans

4. Ignoring University-Specific Requirements

Many applicants fail to research the entry requirements of their chosen program or university. Each institution may have different rules, prerequisites, or document expectations.

Solution: Visit the official websites of your preferred universities and confirm:

Minimum academic grades
English language scores
Course-specific prerequisites

5. Applying Too Late

Leaving things until the final few days leads to:

Technical issues with the portal
Rushed or incomplete applications
Missed test score uploads or reference delays

Solution: Submit at least 1 week before the deadline. You can still edit documents up to the final day if needed.

6. Overlooking the Return-Home Requirement

Some applicants aren’t prepared for the requirement to return to their home country for at least two years after study. If you’re planning to stay in New Zealand permanently, this scholarship is not for you.

Solution: Only apply if you’re committed to contributing to your country after graduation — this is a core value of the Manaaki program.

Final Advice

✔ Double-check everything
✔ Tailor your application
✔ Respect the scholarship’s values
✔ Submit early
✔ Think long-term — this is more than a free degree, it’s a development partnership

Tips from Successful Applicants

While eligibility and strong academics are essential, what truly sets successful Manaaki applicants apart is strategy, preparation, and authenticity. Drawing from real student stories and insights shared in interviews, webinars, and forums, here are the top tips to strengthen your application, straight from those who’ve won the scholarship.

1. Start Early — Way Earlier Than You Think

Many past recipients began preparing 6 to 12 months in advance, giving themselves time to:

Gather transcripts and references
Study for and take English proficiency exams
Research the right program
Refine their Statement of Purpose multiple times

Quote:
“I didn’t wait for the portal to open — I started preparing documents and practicing SOPs a year before. That gave me a huge advantage.” – PhD Scholar from Kenya

2. Align with New Zealand’s Development Goals

Manaaki is a development scholarship, not just a merit-based one. You need to show how your study will:

Contribute to your home country’s growth
Support sectors like education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, or climate action

Tip: Research New Zealand’s aid priorities in your region — and mention how your goals align.

3. Personalize Your Statement of Purpose

Avoid vague or recycled essays. Your SOP should:

Tell your personal story
Show what motivates you to solve specific problems
Connect your field of study to local or regional issues
Be structured, clear, and heartfelt — not robotic

Quote:
“My SOP was focused on rural education in Nigeria and how my Master’s in Educational Leadership would help me build new models. I think that made a real impact.” – Master’s Scholar from Nigeria

4. Choose the Right Program and University

Don’t just go for big-name universities — pick a program that:

Matches your background and goals
Offers development-focused content
Has active research or faculty in your area of interest

Tip: Reach out to academic advisors or potential supervisors before applying (especially for a PhD).

5. Get Strong Reference Letters

Choose referees who know you academically or professionally, not just friends or family. Help them understand:

The scholarship’s purpose
Your goals and contributions
Why should they endorse you

Tip: Give them 2–3 weeks’ notice and provide a template if needed.

6. Rehearse for Possible Interviews

While not all applicants are interviewed, some shortlists require it. Past recipients suggest practicing:

Why New Zealand?
What are your long-term plans?
How will you apply what you learn?

Practice out loud or with a friend to build clarity and confidence.

7. Revise, Edit, Repeat

Your first draft is never your best. Most scholars revise their SOPs 5–10 times, refining:

Flow and clarity
Grammar and structure
Impact and alignment

Tip: Ask someone to review it for feedback — ideally, someone familiar with scholarships or international study.

Use This Scholar Mindset

Think big, but stay grounded
Show passion backed by a clear plan
Highlight your leadership — even at a local level
Emphasize impact over prestige

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Manaaki scholarship fully funded?

Yes — it covers full tuition, living stipend, setup allowance, round-trip airfare, insurance, and more. Some academic materials and research costs are also included.

Do I need an admission offer before applying?

No, you do not need to be admitted to a university before applying for the scholarship.
If selected, you will be guided to apply for admission afterward, in coordination with your preferred institution.

Can I apply without an IELTS or English test?

It depends — if you studied in an English-speaking country or an English-medium university, you may be eligible for a waiver.
However, most applicants will need a valid IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic score before final selection.

What countries are eligible?

The scholarship is open to citizens from selected countries in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Latin America.
Eligibility varies each year — always check the official list when applications open.

What level of study is supported?

Manaaki supports:

Undergraduate programs
Postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees
PhD (research-focused) programs

Short courses and vocational options may be available for Pacific applicants.

Can I bring my family with me to New Zealand?

In limited cases (especially for PhD or longer master’s programs), you may apply for family visas at your own expense.
The scholarship generally does not fund dependent travel or living costs.

Can I apply again if I wasn’t selected before?

Yes — many successful applicants were selected on their second or third attempt.
Use feedback, improve your SOP, and strengthen your development link.

Can I choose any university in New Zealand?

You must choose from approved New Zealand universities or educational institutions.
These include the eight major universities and selected technical or polytechnic institutions.

Is there an interview process?

Not for everyone, but shortlisted applicants in some regions may be required to attend a phone or video interview.
This helps assess motivation, development impact, and communication skills.

What happens after I graduate?

You are required to return to your home country and contribute to its development for at least two years.
This is a non-negotiable condition of the scholarship and part of its core mission.

Can I apply for more than one course?

Yes — applicants often list more than one preferred course or institution in their application.
Your final placement will depend on program availability and scholarship alignment.

Is there an age limit?

There’s no strict age limit, but most recipients are in their 20s to mid-30s, with early or mid-career experience.
Applications are judged more on merit, motivation, and alignment with goals than age alone.

While the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is the most comprehensive government-funded option, it’s not the only opportunity available to international students. Several New Zealand universities and institutions offer their scholarships, many of which are partially or fully funded and open to students from the same eligible regions.

Here are a few notable alternatives you should consider:

1. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship

Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate (taught)
Value: Up to NZD 10,000
Eligibility:
- New international students with high academic performance
- Must be applying for the first time to the University of Auckland
Notes: Very competitive; awarded based on merit and potential

Learn more →

2. Otago International Research Master’s & PhD Scholarships

Level: Master’s (research) & PhD
Value:
- Master’s: NZD 15,000 stipend + full tuition
- PhD: NZD 30,696 annual stipend + tuition
Eligibility:
- Academic excellence
- Strong research proposal
- Acceptance into a research-based program

Learn more →

3. Victoria University of Wellington Doctoral Scholarships

Level: PhD
Value: Up to NZD 29,500 per year + full tuition
Eligibility:
- Open to international and domestic students
- Research quality and potential are key criteria

Learn more →

4. Lincoln University International Scholarships

Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
Value: NZD 5,000–10,000
Eligibility:
- Based on academic merit
- Open to international applicants enrolling in full-time programs

Learn more →

5. University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship

Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
Value: Up to NZD 15,000
Eligibility:
- High-achieving students from specific countries
- Must be applying to a full-time degree program

Learn more →

Apply for both Manaaki and university-specific scholarships if eligible — this maximizes your chances of funding and may give you flexibility in your study plans.

Final Words

Securing a fully funded scholarship to study abroad is a life-changing opportunity, and the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is one of the most generous and impactful programs available to students from developing countries.

With full tuition coverage, a living stipend, travel support, and access to some of the world’s most innovative and inclusive universities, this scholarship opens doors not only to personal advancement but to meaningful development work in your home country.

But remember — this opportunity is highly competitive, and success depends on more than just good grades. The students who are selected stand out because they:

Prepare early and stay organized
Align their goals with their country’s development priorities
Tell a compelling story in their Statement of Purpose
Show leadership and a clear plan to give back

If you’ve read this far, you already have a huge advantage — because you’re taking this process seriously.

So here’s your next step:

✅ Download a checklist
✅ Begin gathering your documents
✅ Mark your calendar for the next application opening
✅ Start writing your Statement of Purpose — today

Studying in New Zealand can be more than a dream. With the right preparation, it can be your reality.