How to Get a Scholarship in New Zealand

Pursuing further education in New Zealand can be exciting, but it often comes with a financial commitment. Scholarships are a great way to ease that burden—if you know where to look and how to apply effectively.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the scholarship process and increase your chances of success.

Step 1: Find Scholarships That Match You

Scholarships in New Zealand are diverse. While many are merit-based, others focus on factors such as:

Country of origin
Area of study
Leadership potential
Ethnic background
Financial need

To improve your chances, target scholarships aligned with your background and goals. Some excellent places to start your search include:

Online Scholarship Databases

StudySpy – Search by study level, ethnicity, provider, and more.
Generosity New Zealand’s givME database – Available through public libraries, Citizens Advice Bureaux, schools, and tertiary institutions.

Education Providers’ Websites

Universities and polytechnics often offer their own scholarships. Their websites list what’s available and how to apply. The Courses Database includes links to providers and sample scholarships.

Step 2: Understand the Requirements

Each scholarship has its own criteria and documentation needs. Common requirements include:

Completed application forms
Academic records or approval letters
Identification documents (e.g. birth certificate or passport)
References or a list of referees
Submission by a specific deadline

Step 3: Request References Early

If your application needs references, contact potential referees (like teachers, employers, or community leaders) early. Let them know:

Which scholarships you’re applying for
The deadline for their reference
Why you chose them

This gives them time to write a strong, thoughtful letter.

Step 4: Get Your Documents Certified

Many scholarships require certified copies of key documents. This means someone officially verifies that your copies match the originals. Certification is free.

Common certifiers include:

Teachers
Police officers
Ministers of religion
Registered medical professionals
Solicitors or Justices of the Peace

Step 5: Submit a Strong Application

Make your application stand out by:

Customising it for the organisation awarding the scholarship
Following instructions carefully
Proofreading for spelling and grammar errors
Attaching documents in the order requested
Having someone else review your application before submitting

Submit everything before the deadline, and keep a copy for your records. If you’re mailing your application, allow extra delivery time—especially if you’re in a rural area.

Special Scholarships

If you’re Māori or Pacific, there are dedicated scholarships available for you. These aim to support learners from these communities in achieving higher education. Be sure to explore:

Scholarships for Māori learners
Scholarships for Pacific learners

Also, if you’re eligible for New Zealand’s Fees Free scheme, check how it may impact your scholarship. Talk directly with the scholarship provider to understand how the two may work together.

Need Help With Your Student Visa?

Applying for scholarships is just one part of your study journey. If you also need assistance with your New Zealand student visa, our team is here to help.