Education New Zealand / New Zealand Government • New Zealand
About This Scholarship
The New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) are merit-based scholarships that recognize outstanding international students who wish to pursue postgraduate study (Master's or PhD) at a New Zealand university. The awards are a partnership between Education New Zealand and participating universities.
New Zealand's universities consistently rank in the global top 500, with the University of Auckland in the global top 100. The country is renowned for its quality of life, safety, innovation culture, and natural beauty.
Award benefits include:
- NZD 10,000 toward the first year of tuition fees
- Possible top-up awards from participating universities
- Access to a vibrant international student community
- Engagement with the Education New Zealand alumni network
Participating universities include:
- University of Auckland
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Canterbury
- Massey University
- University of Otago
- Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
- Lincoln University
- University of Waikato
Eligibility Requirements
- International student (non-New Zealand citizen or permanent resident)
- Applying to an eligible Master's or PhD program at a participating New Zealand university
- Exceptional academic record (first-class honors or equivalent GPA)
- Demonstrated potential for research excellence or professional leadership
- Application submitted through the university (not directly to Education New Zealand)
- Some universities have additional criteria — check individual institution guidelines
- Must not already be enrolled at a New Zealand institution at time of application
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official scholarship page for detailed application instructions.