Discover top Scholarships New Zealand available for international students in 2025, including eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and application tips.
Explore top New Zealand scholarships for international students in 2025, including fully funded options.
New Zealand has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students who wish to pursue high-quality education in a safe, culturally rich, and globally recognized academic environment. Every year, thousands of students apply for New Zealand scholarships to ease their study costs and pursue degrees in science, engineering, arts, business, agriculture, and other disciplines.
As 2025 approaches, many universities, government bodies, and private institutions in New Zealand have announced scholarship programs specifically designed for international students. These scholarships offer financial assistance, including full or partial tuition fee waivers, living allowances, establishment grants, travel costs, and even healthcare insurance.
In this detailed and comprehensive guide, we will cover all major scholarships available for international students in New Zealand in 2025, their eligibility criteria, financial benefits, application process, and important tips to increase your chances of selection.
This article is fully SEO-optimized, easy to understand, and suitable for scholarship bloggers, education consultants, and students planning to study in New Zealand.
Why Study in New Zealand?
Before exploring the scholarships, it’s important to know what makes New Zealand a top study destination.
1. Globally Recognized Universities
New Zealand has 8 top-ranked universities, all included in the QS World University Rankings. Degrees from New Zealand universities are internationally accepted and highly valued.
2. Safe and Peaceful Environment
New Zealand is consistently ranked among the top 5 safest countries in the world due to low crime rates, friendly communities, and strict safety measures.
3. Work Opportunities
International students can work:
- 20 hours per week during semesters
- Full-time during holidays
Post-study work visas allow graduates to stay and work for up to 3 years, depending on the course.
4. Innovation and Research Opportunities
New Zealand universities are known for research in:
- Biotechnology
- Agriculture
- Environmental Science
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Business & Management
5. Availability of Scholarships
New Zealand offers a generous range of scholarships every year to attract talented international students. These scholarships cover undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and diploma programs.
Top Scholarships New Zealand Available for International Students in 2025
Below is a complete list of top scholarships available in 2025, categorized by government-funded, university-funded, and private-funded programs.
1. New Zealand Government Scholarships 2025
a. New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships 2025
The New Zealand Manaaki Scholarship (formerly New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships) is one of the largest and most prestigious scholarship programs funded by the government.
Eligibility Criteria
- International students from eligible countries
- Must meet academic and English language requirements
- Must return home after completion to contribute to home country development
- Priority is given to fields such as climate change, agriculture, disaster management, engineering, and health
Financial Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Living allowance
- Establishment allowance
- Medical insurance
- Travel allowance
- Research and thesis costs for postgraduate students
b. New Zealand ASEAN Scholar Awards 2025
This scholarship supports students from ASEAN member countries to study in New Zealand.
Benefits
- Full tuition
- Living stipend
- Establishment allowance
- Travel cost
- Research funding (for masters/phD)
2. University of Auckland Scholarships 2025
a. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
This is one of the most popular scholarships offered by the University of Auckland.
Eligibility
- International students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework
- Excellent academic background
Benefits
- Up to NZD 10,000
- Applicable for tuition fees
b. Auckland University of Technology (AUT) International Scholarships
AUT offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students.
Benefits
- NZD 7,000–NZD 15,000
- For undergraduate and postgraduate programs
3. University of Otago Scholarships 2025
a. University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship
Popular for postgraduate research students.
Eligibility
- Enrolled in a master’s research program
- Strong academic record
Benefits
- NZD 15,000 stipend
- Partial tuition waiver
b. Otago Doctoral Scholarships
For PhD students from around the world.
Benefits
- NZD 30,000 stipend
- Full tuition coverage
4. Victoria University of Wellington Scholarships 2025
a. Wellington International Excellence Scholarship
Designed for high-achieving students in undergraduate programs.
Benefits
- NZD 20,000 (spread across 3 years)
b. Wellington Doctoral Scholarship
Highly competitive scholarship for PhD candidates.
Benefits
- NZD 29,500 annual stipend
- Full tuition fees for 3 years
5. University of Canterbury Scholarships 2025
a. UC International First-Year Scholarship
Eligibility
- High-performing international students entering undergraduate study
Benefits
- NZD 10,000–NZD 20,000
b. UC Doctoral Scholarships
For research students across different study areas.
Benefits
- Full tuition + annual stipend
6. Massey University Scholarships 2025
a. Massey University International Student Excellence Scholarship
Given to academically strong foreign students.
Benefits
- Up to NZD 5,000
b. Doctorate Scholarship
Benefits
- Annual stipend
- Tuition coverage
7. Lincoln University Scholarships 2025
a. Lincoln Global Challenge Scholarships
For undergraduate students.
Benefits
- NZD 3,000–NZD 10,000
b. Lincoln International Undergraduate Scholarship
Focused on agriculture, environment, and land-based studies.
Benefits
- Tuition fee reduction
8. Private and External Scholarships in New Zealand 2025
a. Asia-New Zealand Foundation Scholarships
Supports students in research, internships, and leadership programs.
b. Pacific Development Scholarships
For students from Pacific countries studying development-related fields.
c. New Zealand International Research Scholarships (NZIRS)
For PhD and research-oriented students.
Fields of Study Covered Under Scholarships
New Zealand scholarships support a wide range of study areas, including:
- Engineering & Technology
- Computer Science & IT
- Business & Finance
- Medicine & Health Sciences
- Agriculture & Forestry
- Environmental Science
- Education
- Law
- Architecture & Design
- Social Sciences
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Data Science & AI
General Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships New Zealand 2025
Each scholarship has its own requirements, but most share common criteria:
1. Academic Requirements
- Strong academic performance
- Minimum GPA or equivalent marks
2. English Language Proficiency
- IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores
- Waiver available for students from English-medium backgrounds (varies by university)
3. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Explaining goals, motivation, and study plans
4. Recommendation Letters
- Usually 1–2 academic or professional references
5. Work Experience (for Postgraduate Programs)
- Some Scholarships New Zealand prefer applicants with relevant experience
6. Commitment to Return Home
- Government Scholarships New Zealand may require students to return home after graduation
How to Apply for Scholarships New Zealand 2025
Step 1: Choose Your Program and University
Identify your preferred course and check scholarship options associated with that program.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Verify academic requirements, English proficiency, and application deadlines.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
Common documents include:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- CV / Resume
- SOP
- Recommendation letters
- English test scores
Step 4: Submit Online Application
Most universities accept applications through their official application portals.
Step 5: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Some postgraduate Scholarships New Zealand require online interviews.
Step 6: Receive Offer Letter
If selected, you will receive a scholarship offer along with admission confirmation.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship in 2025
1. Apply Early
Scholarship seats are limited, so early applications increase your chances.
2. Maintain High Academic Scores
Academic excellence is the strongest selection factor.
3. Write a Strong SOP
Highlight:
- Why New Zealand?
- Why this course?
- Your future goals
4. Gain Extracurricular Experience
Leadership, volunteering, or internships strengthen your application.
5. Apply to Multiple Scholarships New Zealand
Many students win more than one scholarship and choose the best offer.
Cost of Studying in New Zealand in 2025 (Without Scholarship)
Tuition Fees (Annual)
- Undergraduate: NZD 22,000 – NZD 32,000
- Postgraduate: NZD 26,000 – NZD 37,000
- PhD: NZD 6,500 – NZD 10,000 (international rate similar to domestic)
Living Expenses
- NZD 20,000 – NZD 27,000 yearly
Scholarships New Zealand significantly reduce these costs, making New Zealand affordable for international students.
Post-Study Work Opportunities in New Zealand
After completing your degree, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa which allows you to stay for:
- 1 year for non-degree qualifications
- 3 years for degree-level and postgraduate programs
New Zealand has high demand for skilled workers in:
- Engineering
- Nursing
- IT & Software
- Agriculture
- Construction
- Data Science
New Zealand remains one of the best destinations for international students seeking high-quality education, safety, work opportunities, and global exposure. With a wide range of Scholarships New Zealand available in 2025 — including government, university, and private funding — students from around the world can study in New Zealand without financial pressure.
Whether you’re applying for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs, the Scholarships New Zealand listed in this guide provide excellent financial support and open numerous academic and career opportunities.
Start your application early, prepare strong documents, and stay consistent — your dream of studying in New Zealand could become a reality in 2025.
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
Sources
FAQs:
1. Can international students get fully funded Scholarships New Zealand?
Yes. Programs like Manaaki Scholarships and University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships offer fully funded opportunities.
2. What GPA is required for New Zealand scholarships?
Generally, a minimum GPA of 3.0–3.5 (or equivalent) is required, but competitive scholarships may require higher scores.
3. Is IELTS mandatory for scholarship applications?
Most scholarships require English proficiency, but some universities accept waivers or other tests like TOEFL or PTE.
4. Are Scholarships New Zealand available for undergraduate students?
Yes, many universities like UC, AUT, and Victoria University offer undergraduate Scholarships New Zealand.
5. Do scholarships cover accommodation and living expenses?
Government-funded scholarships often cover living allowances, while university Scholarships New Zealand may only cover tuition.
6. When should I apply for 2025 Scholarships New Zealand?
Most applications open between February–October 2024 and January–April 2025.
7. Can I work in New Zealand while studying on a scholarship?
Yes. International students can work 20 hours per week during semesters, regardless of the scholarship.