Bachelors/Masters/PhD DegreeFully Funded Verified active 298 days left

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students

Last verified 18 May 2026 by the Scholarships for Africans editorial team

The New Zealand Government offers full tertiary scholarships for eligible international students to study fulltime at a New Zealand education institution or a Pacific university.

Provider: Scholars4Dev (Africa)
Host country: New Zealand
Deadline: 31 March 2027

Official source

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students is open to African students applying to study in New Zealand at the Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree level, with fully funded funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree · applicants for New Zealand
Funding: Fully Funded
Study level: Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree
Deadline: 31 March 2027

Key eligibility criteria

The scholarships are open to citizens of selected countries in the Pacific and Asia, who are 18 years or older when their scholarship commences (with an exception for Samoa). Applicants must meet academic and English language proficiency requirements set by their chosen institutions. Postgraduate and mature undergraduate applicants need relevant work experience (one year full-time or two years part-time). Scholars are expected to contribute to their home country's development for two years post-study and must have resided in their home country for two years prior to commencing study. No upper age limit, but applicants under 40 are preferred. Refer to the official website for a complete list of eligible countries and detailed criteria.

What the fully funded award covers

Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Return airfare

About the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students (2026)

# Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students - Comprehensive Brief ## Overview The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are prestigious full tertiary scholarships offered by the New Zealand Government to eligible international students from selected countries in the Pacific and Asia. These scholarships support full-time study at various New Zealand education institutions or Pacific universities, covering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The program specifically targets fields of study that align with the development needs of the applicant's home country, such as renewable energy, agriculture development, disaster risk management, private sector development, and public sector development. The overarching goal is to foster social and economic development in the scholars' home countries by equipping them with relevant skills and knowledge. Applicants are encouraged to identify preferred subjects that are most relevant to their country's specific developmental priorities. ## Benefits The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are fully funded and comprehensive, designed to cover all essential costs associated with studying and living in New Zealand. The scholarship package includes: * **Full Tuition Fees:** All academic fees for the chosen program of study are covered. * **Living Allowance:** A generous weekly stipend of NZ$615 to cover daily living expenses. * **Establishment Allowance:** A one-off payment of NZ$3000 to assist with initial setup costs upon arrival in New Zealand. * **Medical and Travel Insurance:** Comprehensive insurance coverage for health and travel throughout the scholarship duration. * **Travel Costs:** Airfares to and from the scholar's home country and New Zealand at the beginning and end of the scholarship. This also includes travel home during the scholarship period. * **Research and Thesis Costs:** Assistance with expenses related to research and thesis for many postgraduate students. For a complete understanding of all scholarship benefits and entitlements, applicants are strongly advised to refer to the official Policy Handbook. ## Eligibility To be considered for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, applicants must meet several key eligibility criteria: * **Age Requirements:** Applicants must be 18 years old or older when their scholarship commences. An exception is made for scholars from Samoa, who can be 17 years old at the start of their scholarship. There is no upper age limit, though applicants under 40 are preferred for university or tertiary studies. * **Citizenship:** Open to citizens of selected countries in the Pacific and Asia. Eligible Pacific countries include Fiji (postgraduate only), French Pacific (New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis and Futuna), Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, North Pacific (Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Marshall Islands), Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu. Eligible Asian countries include Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Viet Nam. * **Academic Requirements:** Applicants must be likely to meet the minimum academic and English language requirements for their chosen courses and institutions. It is crucial to check specific course entry requirements on the preferred education institution's website. * **English Language Proficiency:** Generally, for postgraduate qualifications, an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (no band less than 6.0), a TOEFL score of 90 (writing score 21), a PTE Academic score of 58 (no communicative skills less than 50), or a Cambridge Academic English (advanced) overall score of 176 (no bands less than 169) is required. For undergraduate qualifications, an overall IELTS score of 6.0 (no band less than 5.5), a TOEFL score of 80 (writing score 21), a PTE Academic score of 50 (no communication skills less than 42), or a Cambridge Academic English (advanced) overall score of 169 (no bands less than 162) is generally required. Specific requirements are set by each institution. * **Contribution to Country's Development (Bond):** Scholars are expected to return to and contribute to their home country's social or economic development for a minimum of two years after completing their scholarship study. Preference is given to applicants who effectively articulate their post-scholarship contribution plan. * **Residency Requirements:** Applicants must have resided in their home country for at least two years immediately prior to commencing their study. Exemptions apply to applicants working for their home country on a diplomatic assignment and their dependants. * **Work Experience:** Postgraduate and mature undergraduate applicants (not recent school leavers) must possess relevant work experience. This can be one year of full-time (30+ hours/week) or two years of part-time (up to 29 hours/week) paid, unpaid, or voluntary experience. Preference is given to applicants whose study aligns with their current work experience and who plan to continue in their current job sector. * **Student Visa Requirements:** Applicants must meet the student visa requirements for New Zealand. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the complete eligibility criteria on the official Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website. ## Required Documents While the detailed list of required documents for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships is not explicitly provided in the truncated text, based on the application process and eligibility criteria, prospective applicants should generally prepare the following: * **Academic Transcripts and Certificates:** Evidence of previous academic qualifications and performance. * **Proof of English Language Proficiency:** Official score reports from IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge Academic English. * **Passport:** A valid passport for identification and travel purposes. * **Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume:** Detailing academic history, work experience, and relevant skills. * **Work Experience Documentation:** Evidence of relevant work experience, if applicable (e.g., employment letters, payslips, volunteer certificates). * **Personal Statement / Essay:** A statement outlining study goals, career aspirations, and how the scholarship will enable contribution to the home country's development. * **PhD Research Proposal (for PhD applicants):** Evidence of communication with potential supervisors and a detailed research proposal. Applicants should carefully review the online application portal and specific country-page instructions for a precise and exhaustive list of all required documents. ## How to Apply Applications for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are currently closed. However, the general application process involves several key steps: * **Check Eligibility:** Before starting, verify that you meet all the eligibility criteria, including country of citizenship, age, academic background, English proficiency, and work experience. * **Identify Preferred Institution and Courses:** Scholarship applicants need to choose their preferred education institution and courses. While admission applications are not required until selection as a preferred candidate, it's essential to ensure you meet their minimum academic and English language entry requirements. * **Research PhD Supervisors (for PhD applicants):** PhD applicants should proactively identify and contact suitable PhD supervisors at New Zealand universities. Evidence of this engagement will be required if shortlisted for an interview. * **Online Application:** For most countries, the application is submitted online through specific regional links. It is crucial to visit the country-specific pages on the official scholarships website to access the correct online application form and detailed instructions. * **Submission:** Complete and submit the online application form and all required supporting documents by the specified deadline. Applicants must refer to the official website and country-specific application pages for the most accurate and up-to-date application instructions and links. ## Key Dates * **Application Deadline:** The current annual application deadline is **31 March 2026** at 12:00 PM (midday). Please note that applications are currently closed. * **Course Start:** The next course for scholarship recipients is scheduled to start in **2026**. It is vital for prospective applicants to regularly check the official scholarship website for any updates or changes to these dates, as information may be subject to alteration without prior notice. ## Selection Criteria The selection process for Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships is highly competitive and considers a range of factors to identify candidates who are most likely to contribute to their home country's development. While not explicitly detailed as a separate section, the following criteria are emphasized throughout the eligibility and application guidelines: * **Academic Merit:** Demonstrated academic achievement and the ability to meet the entry requirements of chosen courses and institutions. * **English Language Proficiency:** Meeting the required IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge Academic English scores. * **Relevance of Study Program:** Preference is given to applicants whose chosen fields of study directly align with the identified development needs of their home country (e.g., renewable energy, agriculture, disaster risk management). * **Contribution to Development:** The applicant's ability to clearly articulate on their application form how they intend to contribute to their country's social and economic development upon their return post-scholarship. This is a significant factor in selection. * **Work Experience Alignment:** For postgraduate and mature undergraduate applicants, the relevance of their work experience to their chosen field of study and their commitment to continuing in that sector after the scholarship is a preferred criterion. * **Supervisor Engagement (for PhD applicants):** PhD applicants who have secured or are actively discussing supervision with a potential PhD supervisor in New Zealand will be looked upon favorably. * **Age and Residency:** Adherence to the age and residency requirements is fundamental. Successful applicants will typically demonstrate strong academic potential, a clear vision for their post-scholarship contribution, and a commitment to their country's development. ## Tips * **Thoroughly Review Eligibility:** Before investing time in the application, carefully read and understand all eligibility criteria, including country, age, academic, English language, residency, and work experience requirements. Do not apply if you do not meet all criteria. * **Choose Relevant Study Field:** Select a program of study that directly aligns with the development needs of your home country and ideally, your current work experience. Articulate this connection clearly in your application. * **Strong Personal Statement:** Craft a compelling personal statement that clearly outlines your academic and career goals, and specifically details how you plan to utilize your New Zealand education to contribute to the social and economic development of your home country for a minimum of two years upon your return. * **Prepare English Language Proof:** Ensure you have achieved the required English language proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge Academic English) and have official documentation ready. * **PhD Applicants - Proactive Supervisor Search:** If applying for a PhD, start looking for and contacting potential supervisors at New Zealand universities well in advance. Evidence of these discussions or secured supervision will be beneficial during the interview stage. * **Gather Work Experience Documentation:** If your application requires work experience, gather official documentation (e.g., employment letters, certificates) to easily demonstrate your relevant experience. * **Check Country-Specific Information:** The application process can vary by country. Always refer to your specific country's page on the official Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website for tailored instructions and links. * **Apply Early:** While the deadline is specific, it is always advisable to prepare your application well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues or stress. * **Review All Documents:** Before submission, meticulously review all sections of your application and supporting documents for accuracy, completeness, and clarity. ## Official Source For the most comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date information regarding the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, prospective applicants must refer to the official scholarship website: **Official Scholarship Website:** [https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/international-tertiary-students/](https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/international-tertiary-students/) This official source provides detailed information on eligibility, application procedures, required documents, key dates, and all scholarship policies through dedicated pages and the Policy Handbook. Any reliance on information from third-party websites should be done with caution, and always cross-referenced with the official scholarship provider's website. The provider for this scholarship is the New Zealand Government (NZAID).

What the Fully Funded Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students covers

The award components below were extracted from the sponsor's published description. Always cross-check the exact figures, ceiling amounts and conditions on the official site before you budget around them.

Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Return airfare

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students eligibility for New Zealand applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

The scholarships are open to citizens of selected countries in the Pacific and Asia, who are 18 years or older when their scholarship commences (with an exception for Samoa). Applicants must meet academic and English language proficiency requirements set by their chosen institutions. Postgraduate and mature undergraduate applicants need relevant work experience (one year full-time or two years part-time). Scholars are expected to contribute to their home country's development for two years post-study and must have resided in their home country for two years prior to commencing study. No upper age limit, but applicants under 40 are preferred. Refer to the official website for a complete list of eligible countries and detailed criteria.

Documents required for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Research proposal or statement of purpose (500–2,000 words for PhD)
Published or unpublished writing sample (PhD and research-led Masters)
Financial-need declaration or family-income statement (sponsor-specific template)
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www.scholars4dev.com/2786/new-zealand-development-scholarships-for-africans-asians-latin-americans-and-pacific-islanders/ and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "The scholarships are open to citizens of selected countries in the Pacific and Asia, who are 18 years or older when their scholarship commences (with an exception for Samoa). Applicants must meet academic and English lan…". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Identify a supervisor whose research aligns with yours, exchange emails, and either obtain a conditional offer or confirmation that they will host your project. Many Scholars4Dev (Africa) awards require this before the funding application opens.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Register for IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (or SAT / GRE where required), request official transcripts, brief two or three referees, and prepare passport and identity documents at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a focused 1,000–2,000-word research proposal and a separate personal statement. Tailor every paragraph to the sponsor's stated priorities — generic recycled essays are the most common reason strong applicants are rejected.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www.scholars4dev.com/2786/new-zealand-development-scholarships-for-africans-asians-latin-americans-and-pacific-islanders/, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Aim to have the full draft complete by 30 Jan 2027. Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by 31 March 2027 (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours before the 31 Mar 2027 deadline. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, Scholars4Dev (Africa) will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students deadline & application timeline

Working backwards from the sponsor's stated deadline (31 March 2027). Dates assume a smooth, single-attempt timeline — start earlier where you can.

12 months out
5 Apr 2026
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
2 Oct 2026
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
31 Dec 2026
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
1 Mar 2027
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
31 Mar 2027
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Editorial verification note

The previous deadline was March 31, 2026, and the scholarship is annual.

Last checked 5/18/2026

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by Scholars4Dev (Africa), and be able to relocate to New Zealand for the duration of the programme.

Is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships for International Students fully funded?+

Funding model: Fully Funded. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is 31 March 2027. Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

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