Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are prestigious, fully funded awards offered by the New Zealand government to international students. These scholarships support study across a wide range of academic disciplines and are available in select countries. Priority is given to applicants pursuing programmes aligned with the development goals of New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

The scholarship covers:

• Full tuition fees
• Living expenses and accommodation
• Establishment allowance of NZD $1,000
• Round-trip travel between your home country and New Zealand
• For online learners, a living stipend based on local cost of living

Beyond financial support, Manaaki scholars benefit from:

• Access to New Zealand’s world-class education system
• Opportunities to build international networks and career connections
• Exposure to a multicultural society that fosters personal and professional growth

This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students to gain advanced skills, broaden their global perspective, and enhance their career prospects. Learn more below, and to begin your application to study in New Zealand, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today.

Types of Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are fully funded awards offered by the New Zealand government to support international students from eligible countries. These scholarships promote global development, skills training, and educational exchange across the Pacific, Asia, Africa, and other regions.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships

These are full tertiary scholarships for eligible students who wish to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees at a New Zealand university or a Pacific education institution. They cover tuition, living costs, travel, and other study-related expenses.

Vocational Short-Term Training Scholarships (Pacific & Timor-Leste)

Designed for citizens of Pacific nations and Timor-Leste, these scholarships support short-term skills training and on-the-job work experience. Programmes typically last from one week to 12 months and focus on practical, employment-ready skills.

Thematic Short-Term Cohort Training Scholarships (Southeast Asia & Timor-Leste)

These scholarships are tailored for groups of workers from eligible Southeast Asian countries and Timor-Leste. They fund bespoke training programmes that address shared skills gaps across sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.

English Language Training for Officials (NZELTO)

These short-term scholarships are for government officials from eligible countries in Asia and Africa. They provide intensive English language training in New Zealand to support professional development and international collaboration.

Universities offering Manaaki Scholarships

Several leading universities in New Zealand partner with the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships programme, offering fully funded opportunities for eligible international students. Participating institutions include:

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

These universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes aligned with New Zealand’s development goals and global education standards.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Eligibility

To apply for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, applicants must meet the following core criteria:

Age Requirement

• You must be at least 18 years old at the time your scholarship begins.
• There is no official upper age limit, but preference is often given to applicants under 40 years old.

Academic Record

• You must have a strong academic background that meets the entry requirements of your chosen New Zealand university.
• A minimum GPA or equivalent is typically required, depending on the programme and institution.

English Language Proficiency

• You must meet the English language requirements of your chosen programme.
• Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or equivalent qualifications.

Work Experience (for postgraduate applicants)

• Some scholarships require at least one year of full-time work experience or two years of part-time experience in a relevant field.

Leadership and Development Potential

• Applicants are assessed on their leadership qualities, community involvement, and potential to contribute to the development of their home country after graduation.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships: Eligible Countries

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are available to citizens from selected countries across the Pacific, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. These scholarships aim to support global development and foster long-term partnerships through education.

Here’s a region-wise breakdown of eligible countries:

Apply for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship

Contact StudyIn today to help discover if you are eligible for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship.