If you’re looking for a government-funded scholarship in New Zealand, the good news is that - there are many! Like the NZ Commonwealth Scholarships, which are offered for either master’s or PhD programs. They typically include living allowances with health insurance, travel expenses, and full tuition coverage.
The following section presents an in-depth analysis of prominent government-funded scholarships for the 2025 to 2026 academic year.
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
One Commonwealth Scholarship is offered each year by a number of prestigious New Zealand universities, including the University of Auckland, AUT, Massey University, Victoria University of Wellington, and others; the amount and scope of the scholarship vary by school.
- Offered by: Various Universities
- Courses: Master’s (1 or 2 years) and PhD (up to 3.5 years) programs
- Award: Depending on the university, usually NZD 25,000 (INR 13 Lakhs) - NZD 27,000 (INR 14 Lakhs) yearly
- Eligibility: You must meet academic and English language requirements, be a Commonwealth citizen, be eighteen, have twelve months of full-time (or twenty-four months of part-time) relevant work experience, and pledge to return home for at least two years following the scholarship.
- Application Deadline: Different deadlines (check the official websites of the universities)
New Zealand Short Term Training Scholarship for Pacific and Timor-Leste Citizens
This scholarship provides short-term vocational training and hands-on work experience to professionals from Pacific countries and Timor-Leste. It is not typically available for Indian students, but useful for region-specific candidates.
- Offered by: New Zealand Government
- Courses: Short-term skills training and on-the-job experience
- Award: Covers training costs, living expenses, and travel
- Eligibility: Citizens of eligible Pacific countries and Timor-Leste; currently employed and able to demonstrate training relevance
- Application Deadline: Varies annually (check the MFAT website)
New Zealand Short Term Scholarships for Southeast Asia and Timor-Leste
This scholarship is offered for people from Southeast Asia and Timor-Leste, and supports skill-building through short courses and workshops. Though not specific to Indian students, it shows New Zealand’s broader regional engagement.
- Offered by: New Zealand Government
- Courses: Short-term technical and professional training programs
- Award: Includes tuition, travel, accommodation, and daily allowances
- Eligibility: Citizens of eligible Southeast Asian countries and Timor-Leste with relevant job experience
- Application Deadline: Varies by country and year
New Zealand English Language Training for Officials (NZELTO)
NZELTO targets mid-career government officials from selected African and Asian nations. It offers English language training in New Zealand to enhance diplomatic and administrative communication skills.
- Offered by: New Zealand Government
- Courses: Short-term English language programs
- Award: Full funding including tuition, airfare, and living expenses
- Eligibility: Government officials from eligible African and Asian countries (India may qualify depending on the round)
- Application Deadline: Varies (check with New Zealand embassies or MFAT)
Fulbright New Zealand US Graduate Award
This scholarship allows U.S. citizens to pursue postgraduate study or research at any New Zealand university. While it is U.S.-focused, it highlights New Zealand’s commitment to international education partnerships.
- Offered by: Fulbright New Zealand
- Courses: Postgraduate or research programs in any discipline
- Award: Tuition fees, living allowance, return airfare, and research support
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens with a strong academic background and leadership potential
- Application Deadline: Typically around October each year (check Fulbright NZ)