Top Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand for International Students 2026
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New Zealand offers scholarships for Indian students. It includes fully funded Manaaki Scholarship and university specific awards. New Zealand offers a safe and student friendly environment with top ranked universities and industry relevant education.
New Zealand is quickly becoming a top choice for students worldwide. Students love it for its reputed education system and peaceful lifestyle. Other than these, there are some other advantages to studying in New Zealand. Yes, it is expensive to study abroad for Indian students compared to India. To help you financially, explore some fully funded scholarships in New Zealand for international students.
Scholarships in New Zealand can cover the cost of living, tuition fees, and other expenses. This allows you to focus completely on your education. New Zealand offers several scholarships to Indian students. All of them are either on first come first servce basis or need based. Objective of these scholarships is to attract talented international students who show academic excellence and leadership potential.
Indian students are increasingly choosing New Zealand. If you are searching for New Zealand scholarships for Indian students, this article is helpful for you.
- Why Study in New Zealand?
- What Is a Fully Funded Scholarship in New Zealand?
- Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand for International Students
- Documents Checklist for Scholarship in NZ
- FAQs Related to Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand for International Students
Why Study in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers a safe and student friendly environment with top ranked universities and industry relevant education. Some of the key reasons Indian students choose New Zealand include:
- Globally recognised degrees
- Affordable education compared to other English-speaking countries
- Up to 3 years post-study work visa in New Zealand.
- Opportunity to work part-time while studying
- Strong career opportunities in high-demand sectors
With the right scholarships to study in New Zealand, students can reduce financial stress and gain international exposure.
What Is a Fully Funded Scholarship in New Zealand?
A fully funded scholarship in NZ typically covers:
- Cost of studying in NZ, including tuition fees and other expenses.
- Monthly living allowance
- Airfare to and from New Zealand
- Medical and travel insurance
- Research or establishment allowance
These scholarships are highly competitive and are usually offered by the New Zealand government or for postgraduate research programmes.
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Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand for International Students
Top universities in New Zealand and government offer financial aid packages specifically designed for talented students. These scholarships cover cost of studying, monthly expenses, and medical insurance. Check out list of fully funded scholarships in New Zealand for international students. We have created this list for you.
1. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships (Government Funded)
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is the "Holy Grail" for international students. It is fully funded by the NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It is highly competitive and aims to build future leaders.
Return to Home Condition: This scholarship has a "Bond" requirement. You must return to your home country for at least 2 years after your studies to contribute to its development. You cannot apply for a post-study work visa immediately.
| Overview of Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Value | Full Coverage: 100% Tuition Fees + Living Allowance (approx. NZD 531/week) + Return Flights + Medical Insurance. |
| Study Level | Undergraduate, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, and PhD. |
| Eligibility | Must be 18+ years old. Must have lived in your home country (e.g., India) for the last 2 years. |
| Tentative Deadline | Opens Feb 1, 2025. Applications typically close by Feb 28. (Dates vary by region). |
| How to Apply | Separate Application Required. Apply via the government portal before university admission.
|
2. New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
Designed specifically for Indian students, the New Zealand Excellence Awards are a collaboration between Education New Zealand and top NZ universities. While not always 100% fully funded, they offer massive fee reductions.
| Overview of New Zealand Excellence Awards | |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Value | High Value: Generally ranges from NZD 10,000 to NZD 20,000 towards tuition fees. |
| Study Level | Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees at participating universities (e.g., Auckland, Otago, Victoria). |
| Eligibility | Must be an Indian citizen with a strong academic record (GPA 3.0+ or equivalent). Must hold an unconditional offer letter. |
| Tentative Deadline | Typically October (Varies by university). |
| How to Apply | Separate Application. First, get an admission offer letter from a university. Then, apply on the Education NZ website.
|
3. University of Auckland Scholarships for Indian Students
As New Zealand's top-ranked university, University of Auckland offers dedicated support for high achievers from India. These are merit-based awards.
| Overview of University of Auckland Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Value |
|
| Study Level | Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught Masters. |
| Eligibility | New international students enrolling for the first time. Selection is based purely on academic grades. |
| Tentative Deadline | Bi-annual intake: April (for Sem 2) and November (for Sem 1). |
| How to Apply | Automatic Consideration (Mostly). For the High Achievers award, you are often automatically assessed when you apply for admission. |
4. University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships
If you are planning a PhD, the University of Otago offers one of the most generous packages in the country to attract research talent.
| Overview of University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded: Tuition fee waiver + Annual stipend of approx. NZD 32,544 (tax-free) for 36 months. |
| Study Level | Doctoral (PhD) candidates only. |
| Eligibility | Available to both domestic and international students. Must demonstrate high research capability. |
| Tentative Deadline | Open all year round. You can apply anytime upon securing a supervisor. |
| How to Apply | Checkbox on Admission. Simply tick the "I want to apply for a scholarship" box during your PhD application online. |
Documents Checklist for Scholarship in NZ
Understood every scholarship mentioned here? Do not let missing paperwork reject your application. Ensure you have digital copies of these documents ready:
- Academic Transcripts: Official marksheets (10th, 12th, and Bachelor's).
- Offer of Place: An unconditional admission letter from a NZ university (Required for NZEA).
- Statement of Purpose: A strong essay explaining why you deserve the funding.
- Reference Letters (LOR): Two academic or professional recommendations.
- CV / Resume: Highlight any leadership roles or extracurriculars (Crucial for Manaaki).
FAQs Related to Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand for International Students
No, typically education is not free for Indian students. You must pay full international tuition fees. However, you can study at essentially zero cost by securing fully funded scholarships like the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, which covers fees and living expenses.
Yes, Indian students with a valid student visa can work up to 25 hours per week during studies. Earlier it was just 20 hours. From November 3, 2025, New Zealand increased work rights for international students.
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Primary fully funded option is Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship. This covers full tuition, a living stipend, and airfare. Also, Indian students can apply for University-specific Ph.D. scholarships (like at Otago or Auckland), which often provide full funding for research candidates.