Author: Michael l Updated: July 19, 2026 l Estimated Read Time: 3 Minutes
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About the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship
The Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). It provides full financial support for students from developing regions to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in New Zealand. The program emphasizes academic excellence and requires graduates to return home for at least two years to contribute to local development.
Responsibilities of Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship Scholars
- Enroll in full-time, on-campus study at an approved New Zealand institution.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
- Follow visa and university regulations.
- Commit to returning to your home country for two years after graduation.
What to Expect and Benefits of Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship
- Full tuition and registration fees.
- Monthly living stipend of NZ$615.
- One-time settlement allowance upon arrival.
- Fully funded flights to and from New Zealand.
- Comprehensive health and travel insurance.
Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
- Minimum age: 18; preference for applicants under 40.
- Postgraduate applicants: at least one year of full-time or two years of part-time work experience.
- Must have lived in home country for at least two years before applying.
- Proof of English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (undergraduate) or 6.5 (postgraduate).
- Cannot apply for a qualification at the same level already held.
Safety Application Measures and Helpful Tips
- Apply only through the official government portal.
- Application is free; avoid third-party agents.
- Protect personal data by using secure websites.
- Choose a subject that addresses a key issue in your country.
- Use the online eligibility checker before registering.
- Ensure academic requirements match your chosen program.
- Reference letters for postgraduate applicants must state weekly work hours.
Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship Required Documents
- Passport or national ID copy.
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- Proof of English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Verified work experience documents (for postgraduate applicants).
- Personal statement linking chosen course to home country’s development goals.
Key Application Timeline
- Opening Date: March 1, 2027
- Closing Date: April 10, 2027 (midday NZT)
- Interviews: June–August (online via Teams or Zoom)
Steps: How to Apply
- Visit the official Manaaki scholarship website.
- Run the eligibility checker tool.
- Register a new account with your email.
- Complete the online application form in English.
- Write personal statements explaining how your studies will benefit your country.
- Upload transcripts, certificates, ID, and language test results.
- Review carefully and submit before the deadline.
Visit the Official Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships Portal Scholarship Homepage and New Zealand Scholarships Login Webpage for more details.
You can also see Rutherford Foundation PhD Fellowship in New Zealand, IRC Postdoctoral Fellowship and British Academic Postdoctoral Fellowships detailed guides for other Funded opportunities.
DISCLAIMER: Suretripacademia is an independent education platform. Scholarship rules, deadlines, and university lists change annually. Always confirm requirements directly on the official Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarships Portal before submitting.