The Freemasons University Scholarships 2026 are now open for applications from eligible students in New Zealand.
Funded and administered by The Freemasons Charity, these impressive scholarships are awarded annually to high-achieving students who demonstrate strong academic ability and are actively involved in their communities.
This year, the Freemasons Charity is offering a total of 28 scholarships, including 20 Graduate Scholarships valued at $6,000 each and 8 Postgraduate Scholarships worth $10,000 each.
The awards are designed to support students in completing their university studies in their chosen field while recognizing their leadership, citizenship, and service.
Freemasons University Scholarships 2026 – Summary Table
| Category | Details |
| Scholarship Name | Freemasons University Scholarships 2026 |
| Funded by | The Freemasons Charity |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Universities Covered | Auckland, AUT, Waikato, Massey, Victoria, Canterbury, Lincoln, Otago |
| Number of Scholarships | 20 Graduate, 8 Postgraduate |
| Value | $6,000 (Graduate), $10,000 (Postgraduate) |
| Duration | One academic year |
| Applications Open | July 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | October 1, 2025 (Midnight) |
| Eligibility | NZ citizens/permanent residents, community involvement, and academic merit |
| Interview Period | February–March 2026 |
| Outcome Notification | By mid-April 2026 |
| Award Presentation | May 2026 (Parliament, TBC) |
About the Freemasons Scholarships
For over four decades, the Freemasons Charity has supported tertiary education in New Zealand, awarding millions of dollars in scholarships to deserving students.
These scholarships are open to all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or age, and are granted based on a combination of academic excellence, leadership qualities, and active community involvement.
Participating Universities:
- University of Auckland
- Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
- University of Waikato
- Massey University
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- University of Otago
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the 2026 Freemasons Scholarships:
- Be a New Zealand citizen or hold permanent residency
- Currently enrolled or intending to enrol at one of the eight participating universities
- Have a strong academic record
- Show proven involvement in the community or university life (cultural/sports/volunteer activities)
- Demonstrate leadership potential and good character
- Graduate scholarship applicants must be entering the final year of their undergraduate degree in 2026
- Submit a complete application before the deadline
Note: No association with Freemasonry is required to apply.
Selection Process
Each university district appoints a Selection Committee that evaluates all eligible applications. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in February or March 2026, which are mandatory for those selected. Selection is based on:
- Academic achievement
- References and supporting documents
- Leadership and community involvement
- Personal character and citizenship
Applicants will be notified of the outcome by mid-April 2026.
Scholarship Award and Payment
All successful candidates will be formally recognized at the Scholarship Presentation Event held in May 2026 at New Zealand’s Parliament (date to be confirmed).
Awardees are expected to attend, and travel assistance is available for out-of-town students. Scholarship funds will be deposited into recipients’ bank accounts within one week after the presentation event.
Application Instructions
The application form is designed to be user-friendly with easy navigation and saving options. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Features:
- Use the Form Navigation box to jump between pages
- Save your progress using the ‘save and close’ option
- Resume drafts by logging in and accessing ‘My Submissions’
- Download your draft or completed application as a PDF
Submitting the Application
- Use the ‘Review and Submit’ button at the bottom
- After reviewing, click ‘Submit’ to finalize your application
- A confirmation email with a copy of your submission will be sent
- If no email is received, your application was likely not submitted—check your spam folder just in case
Required Attachments
Applicants must upload the following documents (PDF or supported formats, ideally under 5MB):
- Academic transcript(s)
- Curriculum vitae or résumé
- Proof of New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency
- Letter(s) of reference
- Evidence of community service or leadership (if applicable)
How to Apply
Click the link below to access the official application portal: Apply for the Freemasons University Scholarships 2026
Deadline: Submit your complete application by midnight, October 1, 2025
For more details, visit the official website here.
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