Scholarships for Indian Students in New Zealand

New Zealand is known for its high-quality education, safe environment, and globally recognized universities. However, international tuition fees can range from NZ$22,000 to NZ$35,000 annually, with living expenses averaging around NZ$15,000–$20,000. Scholarships provide a valuable solution to offset these costs.

Hamlets Education assists Indian students in identifying and applying for scholarships based on merit, need, academic interests, and other specific criteria. Whether it’s government-funded, university-based, or private scholarships, our expert team ensures that students apply to the most relevant and impactful options.

Types of scholarships for Indian students in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a range of scholarships through government bodies, universities, and private organizations. These scholarships can significantly lower the cost of education and living, making your dream of studying abroad more achievable.

1. Government Scholarships

These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and other allowances—making them highly sought after.
Many of these scholarships aim to build skills and leadership in developing countries. Recipients are often required to return to their home country after completing their studies.
Popular options include the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships and New Zealand ASEAN Scholar Awards, which cater to postgraduate and undergraduate students from eligible countries.
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic merit, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing to their home country’s development.

2. University Scholarships

These scholarships are often awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and extracurricular achievements.
Most universities have funding opportunities tailored to each level, whether you’re applying for undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral studies.
Scholarships may offer full or partial tuition fee waivers, and some also include living allowances or accommodation support.
Each university has its own application process and eligibility rules, so it’s important to review individual university websites for details.

3. Research Scholarships

Most research scholarships are for students enrolling in full-time doctoral or thesis-based master’s programs.
These often include full tuition fee waivers, annual living stipends, and allowances for research-related expenses or travel.
Universities like the University of Otago and University of Auckland are globally renowned for their research facilities and supervision.
Many scholarships encourage interdisciplinary or international research projects, allowing students to collaborate with global experts.

4. Field-Specific Scholarships

Students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are highly favored due to global demand in these sectors.
New Zealand prioritizes healthcare, environmental science, and agriculture, offering targeted funding in these areas.
Scholarships are also available for students of arts, design, education, and social sciences—especially those with creative portfolios or teaching goals.
Many of these scholarships are designed to improve employability and real-world skills, including internships or fieldwork opportunities.

5. Government-Funded Agency Scholarships

These scholarships often promote studies in areas critical to New Zealand’s economy or social development, such as conservation, indigenous rights, and international diplomacy.
They may be co-managed by ministries like the Ministry for the Environment or Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Students often engage in research or projects that directly contribute to government policy or national strategy.
Commonly supported disciplines include environmental sustainability, climate science, education reform, and global governance.

6. Māori Scholarships

Scholarships aim to strengthen Māori identity and support students engaged in programs related to Māori language, customs, and history.
Universities and indigenous organizations across New Zealand actively offer scholarships and mentorship to Māori students.
Preference is often given to students who demonstrate a commitment to giving back to Māori communities.
While many are for domestic Māori students, some may be open to international students engaged in indigenous studies or exchange programs.

7. Sports and Art Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded based on talent, portfolio, or achievements in competitive events or artistic endeavors.
Applicants must maintain a good academic record alongside their artistic or sporting commitments.
Recipients often gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, professional coaching, or studio space provided by the university.
Universities encourage scholarship holders to participate in national or international competitions, performances, or exhibitions.

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students in New Zealand

To qualify for scholarships in New Zealand, Indian students must have a strong academic record (minimum GPA of 6.5/10) and a confirmed offer from a New Zealand university. Most scholarships require proof of English proficiency, such as an IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT score of 90+. Some programs also expect 1–2 years of relevant work or research experience. Personal statements, recommendation letters, and demonstrated leadership or community involvement further strengthen applications. Additionally, certain government-funded scholarships may require students to return to India after completing their studies.

Essential Eligibility Factors

1. Academic Record:

Strong academic performance is essential, with most scholarships requiring a first-class undergraduate degree or excellent high school results.
A consistent academic history demonstrates your ability to succeed in rigorous academic environments.

2. University Admission:

A conditional or unconditional offer from a recognized New Zealand university or institution is typically mandatory.
This confirms your acceptance into a full-time, eligible program before applying for most scholarships.

3. English Proficiency:

Applicants must prove language proficiency through tests like IELTS (6.5+ overall) or TOEFL iBT (90+).
Some universities may accept alternatives like PTE or waive the requirement if prior education was in English.

4. Work or Volunteer Experience:

Government-funded or competitive postgraduate scholarships often require 1–2 years of relevant work or volunteer experience.
Demonstrating leadership, professional growth, or community impact can strengthen your profile.

5. Field of Study:

Certain scholarships focus on priority sectors such as agriculture, health, climate science, and engineering.
Your field of study must align with the scholarship’s objectives or the development goals of New Zealand.

6. Financial Need:

Need-based scholarships require evidence of your financial background, including income certificates or supporting documents.
These scholarships aim to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

7. Personal Statement & Essays:

A well-written statement should highlight your academic interests, long-term goals, and how the scholarship supports your aspirations. \
Personal essays help reviewers understand your motivation and future contribution.

8. Recommendation Letters:

References from professors, mentors, or employers are typically required to vouch for your academic and professional abilities.
Strong letters can validate your achievements and enhance your application’s credibility.

9. Return Requirement:

Many government-funded scholarships, like the New Zealand Scholarships (MFAT), require students to return to India after completing their studies.
This ensures that scholars contribute to their home country’s development with their new skills.

Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in New Zealand

From fully funded government programs to university-specific grants, numerous scholarships make studying in New Zealand more affordable for Indian students. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other academic costs, easing the financial burden. Explore the best options available to support your education abroad.

New Zealand Government Offered Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
New Zealand Scholarships (MFAT)	Fully funded – tuition, living allowance, travel, insurance, and establishment allowance.	Indian citizens (under 39), with at least 1 year of work experience, a strong academic record, return to India after study.	Offered for postgraduate programs in priority sectors; focus on leadership and development; administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships	Full tuition, living stipend (NZD 491/week), travel, insurance, and research cost support.	Students of Commonwealth nations, including India, academic excellence, must return home after studies.	For Master's and PhD programs, preference for development-related fields; administered by the NZ Ministry of Education and MFAT.
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)	NZD 10,000 towards tuition fees.	Indian students with an offer from a participating NZ university, academic merit.	Specifically for Indian students, 29 scholarships are annually awarded across UG and PG levels, funded by Education New Zealand and NZ universities.
Short-Term Training Scholarships (Skills for Development)	Covers course fees, travel, accommodation, and living allowance.	Working professionals from developing countries, including India, English proficiency; and relevant work experience	Focused on technical and vocational training; short-term courses (up to 1 year); designed to build skills in sectors like agriculture, education, health, etc.

Indian Government Offered Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
National Overseas Scholarship Scheme	Full tuition fees, living expenses, travel, visa fees, and contingency allowance.	Indian students from SC/ST/OBC/EBC/Minority communities; family income < ₹8,00,000/year; must have admission offer.	For Master's and PhD programs abroad; return to India post-study is mandatory; it aims to uplift underrepresented groups.
JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship	₹1,00,000 to ₹10,00,000 (loan-based, interest-free or low interest).	Indian students with a consistently strong academic record, admission to a reputed foreign university, typically postgraduate.	Selection includes an online test and a personal interview; partial travel grants may also be awarded.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship	Up to USD 100,000 (covers tuition, living costs, and travel).	Indian students under 30; first-class undergrad degree; offer from a top foreign institution; not for Engg/Business/Medicine.	Highly competitive; includes essay and interview rounds; not valid for NZ MBA or Engineering programs; strong creative/artistic or academic excellence key.
MHRD Commonwealth Scholarships	Full tuition fees, airfare, and monthly stipend (~NZD equivalent).	Indian students, academic excellence, and financial need; must pursue Master’s/PhD in select development-focused fields.	Offered under the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, students must return to India after course completion.

University Offered Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship	Up to NZD 10,000 towards tuition fees	- New international students enrolling in undergraduate, PGDip, or master's (taught) programs. - Must have a conditional or unconditional offer of admission. - Not applicable to research master's programs.	- Up to 50 scholarships awarded bi-annually. - Scholarship tenure is one year. - Selection based on academic merit.
Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Scholarship	Partial fee-based scholarships ranging from NZD 5,000 to NZD 10,000.	- International students paying full international fees. - Entering their first year of an undergraduate degree or entering a postgraduate degree program. - Must have received a conditional or unconditional offer of place.	- The number of scholarships varies. - Scholarship applied towards tuition fees for one year of study. - Recipients are guaranteed an offer of a place in the Halls of Residence, provided an accommodation application is received by the required deadline.
University of Otago International Research Master's Scholarship	NZD 17,172 stipend per annum plus a tuition fee waiver for one year (capped at the domestic rate).	- International students undertaking a thesis-based master's program. - Obtaining their first master's qualification. - Selection based predominantly on academic merit and research potential.	- Scholarship supports the thesis component of a research master's degree for up to one year of full-time enrollment. - Applicants require very good grades, typically at A or A+ level, to be successful.
Lincoln University International Taught Master Merit Scholarship	NZD 7,000 or NZD 10,000 towards the overall cost of study in specified 180-credit taught master's programs.	- International students enrolling in specified 180-credit taught master's programs. - Must have a GPA of at least a B+ average in the last year of their bachelor's degree.	- No separate application required; assessed automatically during admission. - Scholarship amount varies by program: NZD 10,000 for programs like Master of Business (Global Management and Marketing), Master of Professional Accounting (CPA), etc.; NZD 7,000 for programs like Master of Applied Computing, Master of Pest Management, etc.

Private or NGOs Offered Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme	- Approved tuition fees - Stipend of £1,378/month (£1,690 for London institutions) - Airfare to and from the UK - Additional allowances for thesis, study travel, and warm clothing where applicable	- Permanent resident in a Commonwealth country - Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard - Available to start studies in the UK by September/October 2025 - Demonstrated financial need	- Jointly funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and participating UK universities - For full-time Master’s study on selected courses. - Jointly funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and participating UK universities - For full-time Master’s study on selected courses.
Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship	- Interest-free loan scholarship up to INR 20 lakh	- Graduated from an accredited Indian university - Planning to pursue a postgraduate degree at top-ranking institutions in India or abroad.	- Covers fields such as Applied Sciences, Pure Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Law, Architecture, and Management - Includes a mentorship program and access to a global scholar network - Repayment begins one year after course completion, in installments over the next four years.
KC Mahindra Education Trust Scholarships	- Up to INR 10 lakh for the top 3 KC Mahindra Fellows - Up to INR 5 lakh for other successful applicants.	- Must possess a First Class degree or equivalent diploma from a recognized university	- Scholarship aims to support postgraduate studies abroad - Selection is based on merit, and shortlisted candidates are called for an interview - Application details and deadlines are announced annually.
Go Global Scholarships	- Varies depending on the specific program and funding organization.	- Eligibility criteria vary based on the specific scholarship program - Generally aimed at students seeking to study abroad for short-term or exchange programs	- Offered by various organizations, including educational institutions and NGOs - Designed to promote international education and cultural exchange - Applicants should consult the specific scholarship's official website for detailed information on application procedures and deadlines.

Apply for Scholarships to study in New Zealand for Indian students

New Zealand is known for its world-class education, diverse culture, and generous scholarship opportunities for international students, including those from India. To increase your chances of securing a scholarship, it’s essential to follow a structured and well-prepared approach.

Let your scholarship application reflect your true potential, commitment, and passion. A well-rounded and authentic profile will always stand out. New Zealand values bright minds—make sure you shine!

1. Research Suitable Scholarships

Identify scholarships that align with your academic background, field of study, and leadership qualities.
Look for government, university, and private-funded scholarships that cater to Indian students.

2. Prepare Required Documentation

Academic Transcripts: Highlighting consistent academic excellence.
Letters of Recommendation: From professors or professionals who can vouch for your potential.
Statement of Purpose: Clearly outline your academic goals, reasons for choosing New Zealand, and how the scholarship supports your vision.
Proof of Identity: Valid passport or national ID.
Proof of Admission: Offer letter from a recognized New Zealand institution.

3. Application Submission

Check if the scholarship requires an online or offline application.
Follow all instructions and ensure all documents are attached.
Some scholarships may include an interview round (in-person, phone, or video call).

4. Respect Deadlines

Always track scholarship timelines and submit before the deadline to avoid disqualification.

5. Improve Academic Performance

Academic excellence is a key selection factor.
Regular revisions, group studies, and additional coaching can help boost scores.

6. Build an Impressive Profile

Participate in extracurricular activities like clubs, sports, or community service.
Take on leadership roles to demonstrate initiative and responsibility.

7. Network Actively

Connect with alumni, current students, and past scholarship winners.
Attend relevant webinars/seminars and engage on platforms like LinkedIn to build strong professional networks.

Conclusion

Hamlets Education is committed to helping students find the right scholarships, perfect their applications, and maximize their chances of success. With thousands of applicants vying for limited opportunities, expert guidance can make all the difference, ensuring a strong application strategy and a competitive edge.

Study in New Zealand – Make Your Global Education Dream Come True with Scholarships