Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2026 Fully Funded
About the Scholarship
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is a fully funded program supported by the Government of New Zealand. It helps students from developing countries study in New Zealand or in selected Pacific institutions. The goal of this scholarship is to build strong leaders who can return home and help their country grow. Students can study at top universities and gain high-quality education in English. After graduation, scholars must return to their home country and work for at least two years. This scholarship covers tuition fees and other main costs. It also supports short training programs for professionals and English language courses for government officials. It is a life-changing chance for students who want to improve their future and serve their community.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: New Zealand
- Host Institution: Universities and Institutes of Technology in New Zealand
- Scholarship Name: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship
- Degree Levels: Bachelor, Master, PhD, Short Training
- Gender: Male and Female
- English Language Certificate: Required
- Application Deadline: 31 March (Applications usually open 1 March)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Degree Levels Included
- Bachelor Degree – 3 to 4 years
- Master Degree – 1 to 2 years
- PhD Degree – 3 to 4 years
- Short Term Training – Few months
Fields of Study Included
Fields depend on country needs. Common areas include:
Bachelor Degree Majors
- Education
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Environmental Studies
- Business
Master Degree Majors
- Public Health
- Disaster Management
- Climate Change
- Agriculture Development
- Economics
- Information Technology
PhD Degree Majors
- Environmental Science
- Engineering
- Public Policy
- Health Research
- Agriculture Science
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Travel tickets
- Medical insurance
- Establishment allowance
- Research support (for PhD)
Not Included in the Scholarship
- Family expenses
- Extra personal travel
- Luxury costs
- Visa costs for family
Who Can Apply
- Citizens from eligible countries
- Age 18 or older
- Good academic record
- Relevant work experience (for postgraduate)
- Meet English requirement
- Lived in home country for last 2 years
Who Cannot Apply
- Not from eligible country
- Under 18 years old
- Already received this scholarship before
- Currently serving in the military
- Not meeting English requirement
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Passport copy
- Work experience proof (if needed)
- English test result (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
- Personal statement
- Reference letters
How to Be Successful
- Choose a course related to your job
- Show strong plan to help your country
- Write a clear motivation letter
- Prepare well for interview
- Apply early
Living Costs in New Zealand
| Item | Monthly Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $800 – $1,200 |
| Food | $300 – $500 |
| Transport | $100 – $150 |
| Internet & Phone | $50 – $80 |
| Other Expenses | $150 – $250 |
| Total | $1,400 – $2,000 |
How to Apply
- Check if your country is eligible.
- Complete the online eligibility test.
- Choose your course and institution.
- Prepare required documents.
- Apply online between 1 March and 31 March.
- Wait for email updates.
- Attend interview if selected.
FAQ
What is the age limit?
You must be at least 18 years old. There is no strict upper age limit, but applicants under 40 are preferred.
Is work experience required?
Yes, for Master and PhD applicants. Not required for fresh high school students.
Do I need IELTS?
Yes, you must meet the English language requirement of the university.
Is this scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, living costs, travel, and insurance.
Must I return home after study?
Yes, you must return to your home country for at least two years.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check eligible country
- Check eligibility rules
- Choose recommended subject
- Prepare documents
- Apply online
- Complete English proof
- Attend interview
- Wait for final result
For more information, visit the Manaaki scholarships official website
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