Discover the top NZ Scholarships universities offering scholarships for bachelor students. Explore eligibility, types of scholarships, award amounts, application tips, and country-specific opportunities in this full 3500-word guide.

List of New Zealand universities offering bachelor’s scholarships for international students.

New Zealand (NZ) has rapidly emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for international students pursuing undergraduate studies. With world-class education, globally recognized degrees, a safe environment, and high graduate employability rates, thousands of students choose NZ universities every year. One of the biggest advantages of studying in New Zealand is the wide availability of scholarships for bachelor students, offered by universities, the government, and private organizations.

This comprehensive guide explores which New Zealand universities offer scholarships for bachelor students, including their scholarship types, eligibility criteria, award values, application tips, and expert insights to help you secure funding for your undergraduate studies.

Table of Contents

Why Choose New Zealand for Bachelor Studies?

Before diving into the universities offering scholarships, it is important to understand why New Zealand is a top choice for many international students.

1. Globally Recognized Education System

NZ universities consistently rank among the top 3% globally. Their degrees are internationally accepted by employers and educational institutions worldwide.

2. Safe, Peaceful, and Friendly Country

New Zealand regularly ranks among the safest countries, offering a favorable atmosphere for students.

3. Post-Study Work Opportunities

One of the strongest attractions is the Post-Study Work Visa, allowing bachelor graduates to work in NZ for up to three years (depending on qualification).

4. High-Quality Research and Learning Environment

Even at the undergraduate level, students receive advanced learning facilities, digital resources, and research exposure.

5. Scholarships and Financial Support

The availability of scholarships for bachelor students helps reduce tuition costs and makes NZ a more affordable study destination.

List of NZ Universities Offering Scholarships for Bachelor Students

Below is the complete list of New Zealand universities that provide scholarships to undergraduate students:

University of Auckland
University of Otago
Victoria University of Wellington
University of Canterbury
Massey University
University of Waikato
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Lincoln University

Each of these universities offers a variety of scholarships. The sections below provide detailed insights into the scholarships available at each institution.

1. University of Auckland Scholarships for Bachelor Students

The University of Auckland, the largest and highest-ranked institution in NZ, offers a wide range of scholarships for undergraduate students.

Top Bachelor Scholarships at the University of Auckland

a. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship

Award Value: Up to NZD 10,000
Eligibility: High academic achievers applying for undergraduate study
Applicable for: International students from all countries

This is one of the most popular scholarships for first-year UG international students.

b. University of Auckland Pacific Academic Excellence Scholarships

Award Value: Varies
Focus: Students of Pacific heritage
Applicable for: Both domestic and international Pacific students

c. University of Auckland Māori Academic Excellence Scholarships

Award Value: Varies
Eligibility: Students with Māori heritage
Focus: Promoting indigenous student participation

d. School and Faculty-Specific Scholarships

Various faculties including Engineering, Arts, Science, and Business offer their own awards for bachelor students.

2. University of Otago Scholarships for Bachelor Students

The University of Otago, known for its strong research reputation and beautiful campus, offers multiple undergraduate scholarships.

Popular Undergraduate Scholarships at the University of Otago

a. Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students

Award Value: NZD 10,000 toward tuition
Eligibility: First-year international students
Based on academic merit

b. Otago Entrance Scholarships

These scholarships are designed for students entering their first undergraduate year.

Types include:

Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship
Māori Entrance Scholarship
Pacific Peoples Border Award
Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship

Awards may include fees support, accommodation grants, and stipends.

c. Otago Sports Scholarships

Designed for talented athletes entering bachelor programs.

3. Victoria University of Wellington Scholarships for Bachelor Students

Victoria University of Wellington is located in NZ’s capital city and is well-known for its research and arts programs.

Key Undergraduate Scholarships

a. Wellington International Excellence Scholarship

Award Value: NZD 20,000 (over three years)
Eligibility: International students with strong academic profiles

b. Wellington School Leaver Awards

These include:

Tangiwai Excellence Scholarship
Totoweka Equity Scholarship
Kahotea Scholarship
Rangatahi Māori Scholarship

c. Student Athlete Scholarships

Provided to high-performing sports students.

4. University of Canterbury Scholarships for Bachelor Students

The University of Canterbury offers a wide range of undergraduate scholarships, especially for Engineering, Science, and Business fields.

Main Scholarships

a. UC International First Year Scholarship

Award Value: Up to NZD 20,000
Eligibility: Top international achievers

b. UC Horomata Scholarships

A group of scholarships designed for high-performing domestic and international students.

c. UC Engineering and STEM Scholarships

Particularly strong funding support for students pursuing engineering and science.

5. Massey University Scholarships for Bachelor Students

Massey University, known for its modern approach to education, offers scholarships across various faculties.

Top Scholarships

a. Massey University International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship

Award Value: Up to NZD 20,000
Eligibility: Academic excellence

b. College-Specific Scholarships

Faculties such as Creative Arts, Business, and Health offer scholarships to bachelor students based on merit.

c. Māori and Pacific Scholarships

To support indigenous and Pacific students in their undergraduate education.

6. University of Waikato Scholarships for Bachelor Students

The University of Waikato provides diverse scholarship options for undergraduate students.

Major Scholarships

a. Waikato International Excellence Scholarship

Award Value: Up to NZD 20,000
Eligibility: Academic merit

b. Te Ara Whānui Scholarship (Māori Students)

Financial assistance for Māori students entering their first degree.

c. School Leaver Scholarships

Provided to high-achieving school graduates entering their first year.

7. Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Scholarships for Bachelor Students

AUT is known for its practical approach and industry connections.

Important Scholarships

a. AUT International Excellence Scholarships

Award Value: Varies
Eligibility: High grades + international student status

b. AUT Vice-Chancellor’s Significant Student Scholarship

Awarded to top academic performers.

c. AUT Māori and Pacific Scholarships

Supporting indigenous students and Pacific learners pursuing undergraduate programs.

8. Lincoln University Scholarships for Bachelor Students

Lincoln University is a specialist university focusing on Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Business, and Innovation.

Undergraduate Scholarships Offered

a. Lincoln University International Pathway NZ Scholarships

Award Value: Up to NZD 3,000 or more
Eligibility: Enrolling for first-time undergraduate study

b. Faculty NZ Scholarships

Especially popular in Agriculture, Horticulture, and Agribusiness.Types of NZ Scholarships for Bachelor Students

1. Merit-Based NZ Scholarships

Awarded to students with excellent academic records.

2. Need-Based NZ Scholarships

For students requiring financial support.

3. Country-Specific NZ Scholarships

Some universities offer scholarships for students from:

India
China
Southeast Asia
Pacific Islands
Middle East

4. Indigenous NZ Scholarships

For Māori and Pacific students.

5. Faculty-Specific NZ Scholarships

Degrees such as Engineering, Business, Science, IT, and Arts often have tailored scholarships.

6. Leadership and Sports NZ Scholarships

For students with exceptional leadership qualities or athletic achievements.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor Scholarships in New Zealand

Eligibility varies, but the common requirements include:

High academic achievement
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Acceptance into a bachelor program
Leadership, cultural, or sports excellence (for relevant scholarships)
Financial need (for equity scholarships)
Nationality-specific conditions (in some cases)

Documents Required for NZ Scholarships Applications

Academic transcripts
Passport copy
CV or résumé
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Personal statement
Reference letters
Proof of achievements (academic, cultural, sports)

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a NZ Scholarships

Apply early—scholarships fill fast.
Maintain a strong academic record.
Craft a compelling personal statement.
Highlight activities beyond academics.
Provide complete documentation.
Apply for multiple scholarships instead of relying on only one.

Also Read: How Can Students Apply for (RTP) Research Training Program Scholarships 2025?

Sources

University of Otago
international.auckland.ac.nz
University of Auckland+1
universitiesnz.ac.nz
scholarshiplearn.com
IDP

FAQs

1. Which New Zealand university gives the most scholarships for bachelor students?

The University of Auckland, University of Canterbury, and University of Otago offer the highest number of scholarships for undergraduate students.

2. Can international students get scholarships for bachelor studies in New Zealand?

Yes. Every NZ university offers scholarships for international bachelor students.

3. What is the minimum percentage required to apply?

Generally, 70% and above is recommended for merit-based scholarships.

4. Are there full scholarships for bachelor students in NZ?

Full scholarships are rare at the undergraduate level but available for exceptional achievers.

5. Do NZ Scholarships recipients need to maintain grades?

Yes. Most scholarships require a minimum GPA for renewal.

6. Is IELTS required for NZ Scholarships application?

Yes, English proficiency is usually required unless applying from an English-medium institution.

7. Do NZ universities offer scholarships for Indian students?

Yes. Many institutions provide scholarships targeted toward Indian applicants.

8. Can I apply for more than one NZ Scholarships?

Absolutely. You are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances.