The Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 provide a fully funded opportunity for international students from developing countries to pursue higher education in New Zealand. Funded by the Government of New Zealand, this highly respected scholarship programme is designed to develop future global leaders by equipping them with advanced academic knowledge, professional skills, and international exposure.
New Zealand is widely recognised for its high-quality education system, strong research culture, and inclusive society. Through the Manaaki Scholarships, selected candidates are given the chance to study at leading universities and institutes while experiencing a multicultural academic environment that promotes innovation, sustainability, and leadership. The programme supports students at undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and doctoral levels, ensuring broad access to world-class education.
Beyond academic training, the Manaaki Scholarships place strong emphasis on leadership development and long-term impact. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies, where they can contribute meaningfully to national development, policy-making, education, and economic growth. This makes the scholarship not just an educational opportunity, but a strategic investment in human capital across partner countries.
Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 – Key Details
Host Country: New Zealand
Funded By: Government of New Zealand
Study Levels: Undergraduate, Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s Degree, PhD
Eligibility: International students from selected developing countries
Benefits of the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026
The Manaaki Scholarships are fully funded and cover all major costs associated with studying and living in New Zealand. These benefits allow scholars to focus entirely on their academic and professional development without financial stress.
Scholarship benefits include full tuition fee coverage for the approved programme, a weekly living allowance of NZ$491 to cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses, and an establishment allowance of NZ$3,000 to assist with initial settlement costs. Scholars also receive comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of their studies, return airfare between their home country and New Zealand, and travel insurance for approved international travel.
Postgraduate students may receive additional support such as research and thesis allowances. Depending on the length of the programme, scholars may also be entitled to one or two funded visits back to their home country during their studies.
Eligible Countries for Manaaki Scholarships
The Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships are open to applicants from selected countries across the Pacific, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Pacific Countries
Eligible applicants may apply mainly for undergraduate and postgraduate study, depending on country-specific arrangements. Countries include Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji (postgraduate only), Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Asian Countries
Applicants from Asia are eligible for postgraduate certificates, diplomas, master’s, and PhD programmes. Eligible countries include Cambodia, Indonesia, Jordan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Maldives.
African Countries
The scholarship is open to applicants from many African nations for postgraduate-level study. Eligible countries include Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Djibouti, Eswatini, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Caribbean Countries
Eligible countries include Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname.
Latin American Countries
Applicants from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela are eligible for postgraduate studies.
Host Universities and Institutions in New Zealand
Manaaki scholars can study at a wide range of accredited institutions in New Zealand, including leading universities and institutes of technology. These institutions are known for academic excellence, strong industry connections, and advanced research facilities.
Host institutions include the 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, and Waikato Institute of Technology.
Eligibility Criteria for Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2026
To be eligible for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships, applicants must be citizens of an eligible country and be between 18 and 40 years old at the start of their studies. Candidates must meet the academic entry requirements for their chosen programme and institution.
Postgraduate applicants are generally required to have relevant work experience related to their field of study. All applicants must meet New Zealand student visa requirements and be willing to return to their home country for a minimum period after completing their studies. English language proficiency must be demonstrated if the scholarship is awarded.
PhD applicants are required to submit a research proposal and provide evidence of supervisor support from a New Zealand institution.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit certified academic degree certificates and transcripts, proof of citizenship, a birth certificate, and a detailed curriculum vitae. Referee reports from academic and professional referees are mandatory. English language test results must be provided where applicable.
PhD applicants must also submit a research proposal and a supervisor support letter. Medical or health certificates may be requested during the selection process.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 is 31 March 2026. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
How to Apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026
Applicants should first confirm their eligibility based on nationality, age, academic background, and work experience. The next step is to choose an approved programme and institution in New Zealand that aligns with their academic and career goals.
Candidates must prepare all required documents carefully, ensuring they are certified and complete. Applications are submitted online through the official Manaaki scholarship application system. After submission, applicants should regularly monitor their email for updates, additional document requests, or interview invitations.
Apply Here: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/apply-online/
