The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships stand as one of the New Zealand government’s flagship programs for international talent, designed to support promising leaders from developing partner countries while forging enduring connections between scholars and Aotearoa New Zealand. Administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) through Education New Zealand, the initiative emphasizes building capacity in priority sectors that drive sustainable development, economic resilience, and social progress in recipients’ home nations. By investing in high-quality tertiary education at New Zealand’s top universities and institutes, Manaaki aims to create a network of alumni who return home equipped with globally recognized qualifications and a deep appreciation for New Zealand’s innovative, inclusive approach to learning and life.

For the 2026 intake, applications for full tertiary scholarships (undergraduate and postgraduate) open at midnight on March 1, 2026, and close sharply at midday on March 31, 2026 (New Zealand time). This narrow one-month window makes early preparation essential. The program prioritizes fields aligned with each country’s development needs, such as renewable energy, agriculture, public policy, health, climate resilience, engineering, and education, ensuring scholars’ studies directly contribute to national priorities upon return.

Fully Funded Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)

What Makes Manaaki Stand Out

Manaaki offers comprehensive, fully funded support that removes nearly all financial barriers to studying abroad. Beyond academics, it includes cultural orientation, pastoral care, leadership development workshops, and networking events to help scholars thrive personally and professionally. A key commitment is the two-year return requirement: recipients must return to their home country for at least two years after completing their studies to apply their new knowledge. This “return obligation” reinforces the program’s focus on development impact rather than permanent migration.

Core benefits include:

• Full tuition fees paid directly to the institution.
• Living allowance (stipend): Approximately NZ$531–615 per week (varies slightly by source and year; covers accommodation, food, and daily expenses).
• Return economy airfare: Round-trip flights from home country to New Zealand (and back after study).
• Establishment allowance: One-time payment of around NZ$3,000 for initial setup costs like bedding, textbooks, or warm clothing.
• Medical and travel insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the duration of the scholarship.
• Course-related costs: Support for research/thesis expenses (especially for postgraduate research degrees), orientation programs, and some study materials.
• Additional perks: Leadership training, academic mentoring, and alumni networks that extend long after graduation.

The package is generous enough to allow focus on studies without part-time work pressure, though scholars may take limited paid work under visa rules.

Fully Funded Université Paris-Saclay Master’s Scholarships

Eligibility Essentials

Manaaki targets citizens of specific partner countries and regions. Both parents should typically be citizens of the eligible country, and applicants must not hold dual citizenship with New Zealand or Australia in ways that conflict with eligibility.

Key requirements:

• Age: Usually 18–40 at application time.
• Academic record: Strong performance (often equivalent to a good bachelor’s for postgraduate applicants; high school results for undergraduates).
• English proficiency: IELTS (typically 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0) or equivalent; some exemptions or pre-sessional support possible.
• Commitment to return: Clear plan to contribute to the home country’s development post-study.
• Health and character: Fit to study abroad; no serious criminal record.
• Leadership potential: Demonstrated through work experience, community involvement, or extracurriculars.
• No prior New Zealand government scholarship.

Priority goes to applicants whose proposed study aligns with their country’s recommended sectors and who show potential to become influencers or change-makers.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Tracks

• Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees (3–4 years typically) or diplomas/certificates in priority fields. Fewer spots than postgraduate, with emphasis on foundational skills in development-critical areas.
• Postgraduate: Master’s (1–2 years) and PhD (3–4 years) programs, including taught and research-based options. Postgraduate dominates the quota, reflecting the focus on advanced expertise.

Scholars study at one of New Zealand’s eight universities (e.g., University of Auckland, Otago, Victoria Wellington, Canterbury, Massey, Waikato, Lincoln, AUT) or approved institutes of technology/polytechnics. Course selection must match country-specific priorities and be approved during the application.

Application Process

1. Check eligibility — Use the online questionnaire on the official site to confirm qualification and receive an eligibility code.
2. Register an account — Create a profile on the Manaaki application portal.
3. Prepare documents — Academic transcripts, proof of citizenship, passport copy, English test results (if available), CV/resume, references, and a compelling personal statement outlining study goals, leadership experience, and post-study plans.
4. Submit online — Complete the form during the March window, upload everything, and submit before midday on March 31, 2026.
5. Here is the official site for the program
6. Choose your specific region and submit your application HERE

The process is competitive, with only a limited number of awards per country, so a strong alignment between personal background, proposed study, and national needs is crucial.

Timeline for 2026 Intake

• March 1, 2026 (midnight NZ time): Applications open.
• March 31, 2026 (midday NZ time): Applications close.
• April–May: Shortlisting and assessments.
• June–July: Interviews and English testing (if needed).
• August–September: Final results announced.
• Late 2026/early 2027: Pre-departure preparations and arrival for the February semester start.

Tips for a Standout Application

• Tailor your personal statement to show genuine motivation, clear career vision, and how the study will benefit your country.
• Secure strong references from academics or employers who can speak to your potential.
• Research priority sectors for your country on the official site.
• Prepare English proof early; many applicants improve their scores before submission.
• Be honest about return plans; the program values long-term impact.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships offer more than funding; they provide a transformative experience in a welcoming, high-quality education system known for innovation, sustainability, and student support. Graduates join a global alumni network that continues to collaborate on development projects long after graduation.

This opportunity rewards preparation and purpose. Start gathering your materials now for a chance to study in one of the world’s most scenic and forward-thinking countries. Good luck!