Fully funded scholarships for global students to study in New Zealand
New Zealand • Undergraduate/Master’s • Full tuition + NZ$531/week + Travel
This guide explores the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 for the 2026 intake. It explains the scholarship’s benefits, eligibility requirements, timelines, documents and application steps. Throughout this article, we weave in high‑value keywords such as Manaaki scholarship, New Zealand fully funded, NZ$531 allowance, study in New Zealand, Manaaki 2026 deadlines to help prospective applicants discover this opportunity via search engines.
Where to apply (official)
- New Zealand government scholarships: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz
- Participating institutions: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/scholars/institutions
- Application portal: https://scholarships.manuka.com
Funding & benefits
Tuition & fees
Full tuition fees at approved New Zealand universities.
Living allowance
Weekly stipend of NZ$531 to support basic living expenses.
Establishment & travel
NZ$3,000 establishment allowance plus travel to and from New Zealand, travel insurance and family visit allowance.
The funding provided by this scholarship goes beyond simple tuition support. Successful candidates receive generous stipends, allowances and insurance that enable them to focus on their studies without financial stress. This holistic package underlines the sponsor’s commitment to attracting top talent and nurturing innovation. Applicants should familiarise themselves with the precise values and conditions listed on the official pages to plan their budgets accordingly.
High‑CPC keywords: Manaaki scholarship, New Zealand fully funded, NZ$531 allowance, study in New Zealand, Manaaki 2026 deadlines
Eligibility
- Citizens of eligible countries across the Pacific, Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Be at least 18 years old and have academic qualifications to enter undergraduate or master’s study.
- Commit to returning to your home country for at least two years after graduation.
- Apply between 11 Sept and 23 Oct 2025 for the 2026 intakes.
Eligibility criteria often involve more than academic performance. Many scholarships look for leadership potential, community engagement and alignment with national development goals. It is important to demonstrate not only your grades but also your extracurricular contributions, internships and any experience relevant to your field. Always check the programme’s country‑specific fact sheets and FAQs for detailed requirements.
Timeline
| Stage | When | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Applications open | 11 Sep 2025 | Online portal opens for Semester One/Quarter 1 and 2 2026 intakes. |
| Application deadline | 23 Oct 2025 | Submit applications and documents before the portal closes at midday NZ time. |
| Interviews | Nov–Dec 2025 | Shortlisted candidates participate in virtual interviews and assessments. |
| Offers released | Jan 2026 | Scholarship offers sent to successful candidates and acceptance required. |
| Courses commence | Feb–Jul 2026 | Scholars begin their programmes at New Zealand universities. |
Understanding the timeline helps you plan your preparations. From gathering documents and securing recommendation letters to scheduling standardised tests, you need ample time to assemble a strong application. Mark each deadline in your calendar and submit materials early to avoid last‑minute technical issues. Note that some programmes operate on rolling admissions and may close once they reach capacity.
Required documents
- Proof of identity (passport)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English language test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Curriculum Vitae highlighting leadership and community involvement
- Two references (professional and academic)
Quality documentation is vital. Ensure transcripts are clear and certified, reference letters are signed and sealed, and your research proposals or personal statements are original and well‑structured. Use file naming conventions (e.g. Lastname_Firstname_Document.pdf) to make it easy for reviewers to identify your submissions. Where translations are required, provide both the original and certified translation.
FAQs
Are dependants covered?
The scholarship does not cover dependants; however, scholars studying longer than 1.6 years may receive one or two travel trips home.
Can I work while studying?
International students in New Zealand may work up to 20 hours per week during term and full‑time during breaks, subject to visa conditions.
What fields are eligible?
Priority is given to subjects that support sustainable development; check the approved programme list for your country.
Insights & preparation tips
Securing a place on the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 is a competitive process. Beyond meeting the basic eligibility criteria, you must present a holistic application that showcases your academic excellence, leadership potential and personal story. Take time to research the host country’s culture, cost of living and academic environment. Understanding these factors will help you articulate why Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 is the right fit for you. In your motivation letter, refer to specific features of the programme—courses, faculty, research facilities or community initiatives—that resonate with your goals. Use the high‑value keywords such as Manaaki scholarship, New Zealand fully funded, NZ$531 allowance, study in New Zealand, Manaaki 2026 deadlines strategically: not to manipulate search engines, but to emphasise relevant themes like fully funded scholarships, living stipends and international study opportunities.
Start preparing early. Reach out to potential supervisors or faculty mentors to discuss your research interests; attend virtual open days and information sessions. Join forums and social media groups where current scholars share their experiences and advice. When writing your personal statement, focus on a clear narrative: the challenge or problem that motivates you, the skills and achievements you have gained, and the impact you aim to create after completing your studies. Quantify your achievements where possible—mention projects you led, the number of people you impacted, and any awards or scholarships previously received. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who demonstrate both intellectual rigour and a commitment to giving back.
Another key element is choosing the right referees. Select recommenders who know your work intimately and can speak to your academic abilities, character and potential. Provide them with ample time and a concise briefing on the scholarship’s objectives. High‑quality recommendation letters can elevate your application from good to outstanding. Make sure all documents, from transcripts to portfolios, are professionally presented and error‑free. If translations are needed, use certified translators and include both the original and translated versions. For digital uploads, ensure scans are clear and within the size limits set by the application portal. File names should be logical and consistent, using your surname and document type.
Finally, prepare for interviews by practising common scholarship questions: why you chose the field of study, how you plan to contribute to your home country after graduation, and how you have demonstrated leadership or community engagement. Research current events related to your subject area and be ready to discuss them thoughtfully. Confidence comes from preparation—mock interviews with mentors or peers can help calm nerves and refine your responses. During the interview, speak clearly, maintain eye contact and convey enthusiasm for both the scholarship and the opportunity to act as an ambassador for your country. Remember that scholarships like the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 not only invest in your education but also expect you to contribute positively to global knowledge and cross‑cultural understanding.
While funding and eligibility are the tangible aspects of a scholarship, the intangible rewards are equally important. Living in a new country challenges you to adapt and grow. You will meet peers from across the globe, learn new languages and customs, and develop resilience. Take advantage of on‑campus clubs, volunteer opportunities and cultural excursions organised by the programme. These activities enrich your academic journey and help you build a network of lifelong friends and professional contacts. Be mindful of your responsibilities as a scholar: maintain satisfactory progress, act as a cultural ambassador and adhere to the regulations of both your host institution and scholarship provider. Your experience will shape your worldview and provide you with skills that extend far beyond the classroom—skills in leadership, communication and intercultural cooperation that will serve you throughout your career.
The benefits of an international scholarship extend beyond personal development. As a grantee, you become part of a global community of alumni committed to positive change. During and after your studies, you may be invited to participate in conferences, alumni associations and mentorship programmes that promote collaboration across borders. Use these networks to share knowledge, partner on research or community projects, and inspire prospective applicants from your home country. Engaging in these opportunities not only enhances your professional profile but also reinforces the core mission of scholarships: to foster mutual understanding, strengthen institutions and contribute to sustainable development. Many past recipients attest that the connections they make through scholarship networks are as valuable as the academic degree itself. By staying active in alumni circles, you can access job leads, funding calls and invitations to policy discussions that might otherwise remain out of reach. Take the initiative to organise webinars, career talks or outreach events in your home community to multiply the programme’s impact.
Finally, reflect on how you will pay forward the investment made in your education. Scholarship programmes often expect recipients to return home with new skills and perspectives to drive progress in their societies. Think about specific areas where you can contribute: perhaps by teaching at local universities, launching social enterprises, advising policymakers or mentoring future applicants. Your lived experience abroad equips you with fresh ideas and a global outlook; harness these assets to tackle challenges such as climate change, public health, education inequality or technological innovation. Through thoughtful leadership and a commitment to service, you honour the trust placed in you by your scholarship sponsors. In turn, your work will inspire the next generation of scholars, completing a virtuous cycle of learning and giving back.
Information in this article is based on publicly available sources at the time of writing. Scholarship terms can change annually; always verify deadlines, benefits and eligibility on the official programme websites before applying. Thoughtful preparation and adherence to guidelines will enhance your chances of securing one of these prestigious scholarships.
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