Scholarships to study in New Zealand 2026

Scholarships to Study in New Zealand: Eligibility, Scholarship Amounts, Scholarship Types, Required Documents

One key New Zealand scholarship eligibility criterion is securing an admission offer from a recognised New Zealand study institution. The average scholarship amount granted to Indian students applying for scholarships in New Zealand ranges from NZD 5,000 to NZD 25,000 (depending on the program). Leading scholarships to study in New Zealand include the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, the International Student Excellence Scholarship by the University of Auckland, and Commonwealth Scholarships. Submitting official and verified academic records is one of the essential New Zealand scholarship requirements. You can boost your scholarship prospects for New Zealand by focusing heavily on proving your academic worth and submitting the required documents in order and on time.

What are the Criteria to Apply for Scholarships to Study in New Zealand for Indian Students?

One key New Zealand scholarship eligibility criterion is securing an admission offer from a recognised New Zealand study institution. Different scholarship providers may have different eligibility criteria, so always check the specific program requirements before applying.

A high academic score at the high school or university level, depending on the study level for which the scholarship is applied for
A high English proficiency score, such as 6.5 overall
At least 18 years of age at the time of applying for the scholarship
1-2 years of prior work experience
Enrollment in certain high-priority fields of study aligned with the scholarship goals

_{Related source: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/check-eligibility-criteria/}

How Much Money is Available Through Scholarships?

The average scholarship amount granted to Indian students applying for scholarships in New Zealand ranges from NZD 5,000 to NZD 25,000 (depending on the program). The actual amount may vary by provider and by whether the scholarship is government-funded or private/university-specific.

_Source:https://www.idp.com/india/study-abroad/study-in-new-zealand/

Scholarships to Study in New Zealand

Some leading scholarships to study in New Zealand include Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, the International Student Excellence Scholarship by the University of Auckland, and Commonwealth Scholarships.

Scholarship	Benefits
New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)	NZD 25,000 per year for 3 years
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)	NZD 260,000 overall
SEG Scholarship	NZD 5,000 per year
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships	Full tuition fees, living allowance, and establishment allowance
International Student Excellence Scholarship (University of Auckland)	25% of the value of one-year tuition fee

_{Related sources: https://studyspy.ac.nz/scholarships/10768/new-zealand-international-doctoral-research-scholarships
https://www.studywithnewzealand.govt.nz/en/new-zealand-excellence-awards
https://www.ipu.ac.nz/international-students/enrolments-and-assistance/scholarships-1
https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/scholars-get-ready-to-start-your-scholarship/}https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/scholarships-and-awards/find-a-scholarship/university-of-auckland-international-student-excellence-scholarship-844-all.html_{*This is an indicative list. Speak with your counsellor for details and the best available options for your profile.}

Essential Documents Required to Apply for New Zealand Scholarships

Submitting official and verified academic records is one of the essential New Zealand scholarship requirements. Some other documents are required too, which include:

Proof of English language proficiency, such as an IELTS test score (overall 6.5)
Tailored Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Proof of identity
Employment details
Letter of Recommendation

_{Related source: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/check-eligibility-criteria}

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a New Zealand Scholarship

You can boost your scholarship prospects for New Zealand by focusing heavily on proving your academic worth and submitting the required documents in order and on time. Here are some more ways to improve scholarship chances for studying in New Zealand:

Align the study program you apply for with critical social and economic skills gaps in India.
Start early, especially for highly competitive scholarship programs, such as prestigious government awards.
Highlight your commitment to local progress by showcasing volunteer work, professional projects, or community initiatives.

How IDP Education Can Help You Apply for Scholarships

IDP Education, one of the best study abroad consultants, helps Indian students apply for scholarships in New Zealand. We offer complete professional guidance and assistance to assess individual student profiles and align them with relevant study abroad scholarship programs in New Zealand.

FAQs on Scholarships to Study in New Zealand for Indian Students

1. Do NZ scholarships include health insurance for Indian students?

Yes, most fully-funded NZ scholarship programs cover health insurance for Indian students. Examples include Commonwealth Scholarships and New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS).

2. Are there scholarships for Indian students with low family income?

Yes, several government, private, and university scholarship programs in New Zealand support Indian students with a low family income by offering need-based aid.

_{Updated on 27 October, 2026}