Are you seeking a life-changing opportunity to study abroad without financial limitations? The Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 present a fully funded pathway for talented international students to pursue higher education in one of the world’s most progressive and student-friendly countries.
Through this flagship initiative, future leaders from developing nations are supported with world-class academic training, leadership development, and cultural immersion, while long-term development impact is deliberately emphasized.
Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026
The Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 are fully sponsored by the Government of New Zealand and are designed to strengthen global partnerships through education. The program has been structured to empower students who demonstrate strong academic ability, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to contributing to their home countries after graduation.
Through this scholarship, international students are enabled to study at leading New Zealand universities and institutes of technology, where innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge research are prioritized.
At the same time, scholars are exposed to New Zealand’s values of inclusiveness, sustainability, and collaboration. Consequently, graduates are expected to return home well-equipped to support economic growth, social development, and institutional strengthening.
Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 – Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | New Zealand |
| Funded By | Government of New Zealand |
| Study Levels | Undergraduate, Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, PhD |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students from Selected Developing Countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded |
| IELTS/English Test | Required (after award) |
| Application Deadline | 31 March 2026 |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2026 Intake |
What Are the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships All About?
The Manaaki Scholarship Program is New Zealand’s primary international development scholarship initiative. It has been strategically created to support individuals who are expected to become change-makers in their communities, industries, and public institutions. Rather than focusing solely on academic excellence, the program emphasizes leadership capacity, development relevance, and long-term national impact.
Under this scheme, scholars are selected from eligible countries across Africa, Asia, the Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean. They are then supported to study qualifications that align with their countries’ development priorities. As a result, education is not viewed in isolation but as a tool for sustainable transformation.
In addition, scholars are encouraged to engage in leadership activities, professional networking, and intercultural learning throughout their studies. Therefore, the Manaaki Scholarship is not merely financial assistance but a holistic development program.
Benefits of Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026
One of the strongest attractions of the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 is the extensive financial support provided. All major study-related expenses are covered, ensuring that scholars can concentrate fully on their academic and professional growth.
The benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of study
- Weekly living allowance of NZ$491, paid to support accommodation, food, and daily expenses
- Establishment allowance of NZ$3,000 to assist with initial settlement costs
- Comprehensive medical insurance throughout the study period
- Return economy airfare between the home country and New Zealand
- Travel insurance for international journeys
- Research and thesis allowance for postgraduate and PhD students
- One or two funded return visits to the home country, depending on program length
Through these benefits, financial stress is effectively removed, while academic focus and personal development are strongly encouraged.
Eligible Countries for Manaaki Scholarships
Eligibility for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 is determined by nationality. Applicants must be citizens of approved developing countries, grouped by region.
Pacific Countries
Eligible applicants may apply for undergraduate and postgraduate programs (levels vary by country). These include nations such as Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Kiribati, and others.
Asian Countries
Countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Nepal, Cambodia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines are included. Generally, postgraduate-level study is supported within this region.
African Countries
A wide range of African nations are eligible, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Available levels typically include postgraduate certificates, diplomas, master’s, and PhD programs.
Caribbean and Latin American Countries
Applicants from countries such as Jamaica, Haiti, Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Argentina are also eligible, primarily at postgraduate levels.
Because eligibility rules may vary slightly by country and level of study, applicants are advised to confirm their country’s status before applying.
Host Universities in New Zealand
Scholars under the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 may study at some of New Zealand’s most reputable institutions, known globally for academic excellence and research impact.
Participating institutions include:
- University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- University of Canterbury
- Victoria University of Wellington
- Massey University
- University of Waikato
- Lincoln University
- Auckland University of Technology
- Southern Institute of Technology
- Unitec Institute of Technology
- Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec)
Each institution offers a supportive learning environment, modern facilities, and strong industry connections, thereby enhancing employability and practical competence.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026, applicants must satisfy several academic, professional, and personal requirements.
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country
- Be between 18 and 40 years old at the start of the study program
- Meet the academic entry requirements of the chosen New Zealand institution
- Have relevant work experience (particularly for postgraduate applicants)
- Meet New Zealand student visa requirements
- Secure admission into an approved course and institution
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to national development
- Provide proof of English language proficiency if awarded
- Submit a research proposal and supervisor endorsement (for PhD applicants only)
Importantly, applicants must also show a strong intention to return to their home country after completing their studies.
Required Documents
All applicants are required to submit a complete and well-organized application. Documents must be certified and uploaded during the online application process.
Required documents include:
- Certified academic degree certificates
- Certified academic transcripts
- Proof of citizenship (passport or national ID)
- Birth certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic and professional referee reports
- English language test results (if available)
- PhD supervisor support letter (for doctoral applicants)
- Research proposal (PhD only)
- Medical or health certificate
Incomplete or inaccurate documentation may lead to disqualification; therefore, careful preparation is essential.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Applying for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 involves a structured process that must be followed carefully.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Applicants should first confirm that their country, age, and academic background meet the eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Choose a Study Program
An approved course and institution aligned with development priorities must be selected.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
All required documents should be gathered, certified, and reviewed for accuracy.
Step 4: Submit Online Application
The Manaaki scholarship application form must be completed online before the deadline.
Step 5: Await Selection Results
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or further assessments, after which final decisions are communicated.
Because of the competitive nature of the program, early preparation is strongly recommended.
Why Study in New Zealand Under the Manaaki Scholarship?
Studying in New Zealand offers more than academic qualifications. Scholars benefit from a globally respected education system, safe living conditions, and a multicultural society. Moreover, New Zealand institutions emphasize critical thinking, innovation, and applied research.
Through the Manaaki Scholarship, students also gain exposure to leadership training, community engagement, and global networking. As a result, graduates return home not only with degrees but with confidence, skills, and global perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel, insurance, and additional academic support.
Can undergraduate students apply?
Yes, but undergraduate eligibility is limited to specific countries, mainly in the Pacific region.
Do I need IELTS before applying?
IELTS is not always required at the application stage, but must be provided if the scholarship is awarded.
Can I choose any course in New Zealand?
No. Courses must be approved and aligned with your country’s development priorities.
Is work experience mandatory?
Work experience is strongly required for postgraduate applicants and may strengthen undergraduate applications.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 is 31 March 2026.
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