The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship program that allows international students from developing countries to study in New Zealand. The scholarship is funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and supports students who want to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees at leading universities in New Zealand.
This prestigious scholarship aims to help talented students gain quality education and develop skills that can contribute to the social and economic development of their home countries.
Each year, hundreds of international students receive this scholarship to study in different fields such as science, engineering, agriculture, business, and public policy.
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is part of the international development program managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The scholarship focuses on building leadership capacity and strengthening partnerships between New Zealand and developing nations.
Students selected for this program will study at top universities across the country and gain valuable academic and professional experience.
Scholarship Benefits
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 is fully funded and covers most of the expenses required to study abroad.
Successful applicants may receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Living allowance of approximately NZD $531 per week
- Establishment allowance for study materials and accommodation
- Round-trip airfare to New Zealand
- Medical and travel insurance
- Research and thesis support for postgraduate students
- Assistance with accommodation and settling in
These benefits allow scholars to focus on their education without financial stress.
Duration of the Scholarship
The scholarship duration depends on the level of study:
- Bachelor’s degree: 3 to 4 years
- Master’s degree: 1 to 2 years
- PhD degree: Up to 3.5 years
Students must complete their studies within the approved scholarship period.
Fields of Study
Students can study a wide range of programs depending on the development priorities of their home country. Common fields include:
- Agriculture and Environmental Science
- Engineering and Technology
- Business and Economics
- Health and Medical Sciences
- Education and Social Development
- Climate Change and Sustainability
The available courses are offered by universities across New Zealand.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an eligible developing country
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Meet the academic requirements for admission to a university in New Zealand
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to community development
- Meet English language requirements such as IELTS or TOEFL
- Agree to return to their home country for at least two years after completing the scholarship
Applicants with work experience and strong academic records are usually more competitive.
Required Documents
Applicants will typically need the following documents:
- Completed online scholarship application
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Valid passport copy
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- English language test result
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
Applicants should ensure that all documents are properly prepared before submission.
Application Deadline
- 31 March 2026
Students are encouraged to apply early once the application portal opens.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Visit the official Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website.
- Check whether your country is eligible.
- Choose a suitable study program in New Zealand.
- Create an account on the scholarship portal.
- Complete the online application form and upload required documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews during the selection process.
Why Study in New Zealand?
Studying in New Zealand offers many benefits for international students:
- Globally recognized universities
- High-quality research and teaching standards
- Safe and welcoming environment
- Multicultural student community
- Opportunities to gain international work experience
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