New Zealand is renowned for its high-quality education system, cutting-edge research opportunities, and breathtaking natural landscapes. For international students, studying in New Zealand can be a life-changing experience. However, tuition fees and living costs can be significant barriers. Fully funded scholarships provide comprehensive financial support, covering tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs. In 2025, several prestigious scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies, allowing students to pursue their academic goals without financial concerns.
Benefits of Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand
Opting for fully funded scholarships in New Zealand offers multiple advantages:
- Financial Security: Complete coverage of tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, and health insurance.
- High-Quality Education: Access to top universities with world-class faculty and research facilities.
- Global Exposure: Opportunity to study alongside students from diverse backgrounds.
- Research and Career Opportunities: Many scholarships include mentorship, internships, and networking programs.
- Professional Growth: Strengthens your academic and professional profile for future global opportunities.
Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand
| Scholarship Name | Level | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) | PhD | Full tuition + living allowance | International PhD students in research programs | Varies by university |
| New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships | Masters/PhD | Tuition, travel, living allowance | Students from Commonwealth countries | Feb 28, 2025 |
| University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship | Undergraduate | Full tuition + living support | High-achieving international students | Dec 15, 2025 |
| New Zealand ASEAN Scholars Awards | Undergraduate/Masters | Tuition + travel + living expenses | Students from ASEAN countries | Mar 31, 2025 |
| Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | Undergraduate | Full tuition | Exceptional academic performance | Jan 31, 2025 |
| Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship | Undergraduate/Masters | Tuition + living allowance | Academic merit and leadership | Feb 15, 2025 |
| Massey University International Excellence Scholarship | Undergraduate/Masters | Tuition + living expenses | High-achieving international students | Feb 1, 2025 |
| University of Otago International Leadership Scholarship | Undergraduate/Masters | Tuition + living support | Academic excellence and leadership potential | Jan 31, 2025 |
| University of Waikato International Merit Scholarship | Undergraduate/Masters | Full tuition + living expenses | Strong academic record | Feb 28, 2025 |
| Canterbury University International Doctoral Scholarship | PhD | Tuition + living allowance | Outstanding research-focused PhD students | Varies |
Detailed Overview of Selected Scholarships
1. New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
The NZIDRS supports international doctoral students pursuing research in New Zealand. It provides full tuition, a living allowance, and research-related expenses. Selection is based on research excellence, leadership, and academic achievements.
2. New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
These scholarships are available for students from Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s or PhD programs. They cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses. Candidates are selected based on academic excellence and the potential to contribute to their home countries.
3. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
Targeting outstanding undergraduate students, this scholarship covers full tuition and provides support for living expenses. Selection criteria include academic performance, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
4. New Zealand ASEAN Scholars Awards
Available for students from ASEAN countries pursuing undergraduate or master’s programs, these scholarships cover tuition fees, travel allowances, and living expenses. Selection emphasizes academic excellence and leadership potential.
5. Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
Lincoln University awards full tuition scholarships to exceptional international undergraduate students. Applicants are selected based on academic performance and leadership achievements.
6. Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship
This scholarship provides tuition and living support to high-achieving undergraduate and master’s students. Candidates are selected based on academic merit, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.
7. Massey University International Excellence Scholarship
Massey University offers scholarships for undergraduate and master’s students, covering tuition and living expenses. Selection focuses on academic excellence and leadership qualities.
8. University of Otago International Leadership Scholarship
This scholarship supports undergraduate and master’s students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential. It covers tuition and living costs, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies.
9. University of Waikato International Merit Scholarship
Targeting students with strong academic records, this scholarship covers full tuition and living expenses for undergraduate and master’s students. Selection is based on merit and leadership potential.
10. Canterbury University International Doctoral Scholarship
This scholarship supports PhD students with research-focused programs, covering tuition and living allowance. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Maintain High Academic Performance: Excellent grades are essential.
- Prepare a Strong Statement of Purpose: Highlight your goals, achievements, and motivation.
- Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Obtain references from professors or mentors familiar with your work.
- Demonstrate Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement: Participation in community or research projects strengthens your application.
- Apply Early: Meeting deadlines and preparing all documents in advance increases your chances.
Overview Table
| Scholarship | Level | Coverage | Duration | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NZIDRS | PhD | Tuition + living allowance | 3–4 years | Varies |
| New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships | Masters/PhD | Tuition + travel + living | 1–2 years | Feb 28, 2025 |
| University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship | Undergraduate | Tuition + living | 3–4 years | Dec 15, 2025 |
| New Zealand ASEAN Scholars Awards | Undergraduate/Masters | Tuition + travel + living | 1–2 years | Mar 31, 2025 |
| Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | Undergraduate | Tuition | 3–4 years | Jan 31, 2025 |
| Victoria University of Wellington International Excellence Scholarship | Undergraduate/Masters | Tuition + living | 1–2 years | Feb 15, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are these scholarships open to all international students?
Yes, most scholarships are available to international students worldwide, though some target specific countries or regions.
Q2: Do these scholarships cover living expenses along with tuition?
Yes, most of the top fully funded scholarships provide both tuition and living allowances.
Q3: Are scholarships available for all levels of study?
Yes, New Zealand offers fully funded scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Conclusion
Fully funded scholarships in New Zealand provide international students with the chance to pursue higher education without financial stress. By maintaining excellent academics, preparing strong applications, and applying early, students can secure scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and additional costs. These opportunities not only provide financial support but also enhance academic, research, and professional growth, making New Zealand an ideal destination for ambitious students in 2025.