Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2025 – Fully Funded Opportunity

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2025 is an exciting fully-funded program for international students from eligible developing countries. Imagine studying at a world-class New Zealand university – with tuition, flights and living expenses all covered! – while gaining skills to benefit your home country. This NZ Government scholarship (through MFAT’s NZ Aid Programme) aims to “build prosperity, security, and sustainable growth” in partner nations. In this friendly guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the scholarship’s purpose and highlights, who can apply, what’s covered, how to apply, important deadlines, and tips to make your application shine.

What is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship?

The Manaaki Scholarship is a fully funded tertiary scholarship (for bachelor’s, master’s, PhD or short-course training) offered by the New Zealand Government. Recipients become part of a global community of scholars and gain a “globally recognised education” in an “authentically New Zealand experience”. In practical terms, this means the scholarship pays your full university fees, return economy airfare, medical and travel insurance, plus a living allowance and even a settling-in (establishment) allowance. It’s a chance to earn top-quality qualifications in fields that can help your country – such as climate resilience, agriculture, renewable energy or governance – while building a network of fellow leaders.

According to NZ officials, the goal is to invest in students who will return home and contribute. Scholars commit to using their new skills for at least two years after graduating to boost social or economic development back home. In fact, the program’s philosophy is to foster “lifetime connections” with New Zealand and prepare the “leaders of tomorrow” in partner countries. For example, one alumna says studying in NZ empowered her to tackle environmental issues at home: “Once we take care of nature, nature will take care of us,” reflecting how Manaaki connects personal growth with global service.

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, you must meet all criteria. In general, you should:

• Be a citizen of an eligible developing country. The program targets students from partner nations (over 80 countries, mostly in Asia, the Pacific and Africa). (Check the official site for the full country list.)
• Age: At least 18 years old when studies begin. (There is no upper age limit, but candidates are generally preferred under 40.) Samoa applicants have a special rule allowing 17-year-olds on the Samoa Foundation intake.
• Education & English: Meet the entry requirements of your chosen NZ university – typically a strong high-school or bachelor’s record – and the required English level (for example, IELTS usually 6.0–6.5 overall).
• Work experience: For postgraduate study (Masters/PhD), you need relevant work experience: typically one year full-time or two years part-time. (If you are applying immediately after school, work experience is not required.) This experience should ideally align with your study plans, and you’ll explain how your career and country will benefit from your scholarship.
• Residency: You must have lived in your home country for at least two years prior to applying (with exceptions only for diplomatic service or students studying abroad).
• Commitment to return: You agree to return home for at least two years after finishing your NZ studies and use your skills to help your country’s development. This is a condition of the scholarship.
• No prior Manaaki scholarship: You should not have already received a Manaaki Scholarship in the past.

Before applying, you must complete the online eligibility questionnaire on the Manaaki NZ website. It checks all the basic criteria (citizenship, work experience, residence, etc.) and issues you an eligibility code if you qualify. This code is needed when you register to apply (see below). If the quiz says you’re not eligible, you cannot submit an application this round.

Scholarship Benefits: What’s Fully Funded?

If you win a Manaaki Scholarship, you get a comprehensive funding package. In short, it covers almost every cost of studying and living in New Zealand:

• Full tuition and fees at the NZ university or institute you choose.
• Return economy-class airfare from your home country to New Zealand (and back at the end). Some additional travel allowances (e.g. for reunion with family, or research travel) may also be included for eligible scholars.
• Medical and travel insurance while in New Zealand. You’ll be covered by health insurance so you don’t have to pay for medical emergencies.
• Living allowance (stipend). A fortnightly (or monthly) stipend is provided to cover basic living costs like food and accommodation. This amount varies by level of study and location, but it ensures you can focus on your studies without working.
• Establishment allowance. A one-time payment to help with initial costs when you arrive in NZ (like buying bedding, kitchenware, etc.).
• Thesis/research allowance. If you’re a postgraduate student, you may receive extra funds to cover research or thesis expenses.
• Reintegration allowance. To ease your return home after study, some scholars get a small allowance to help settle back (covered by the scholarship).

Altogether, this means the Manaaki Scholarship is truly fully funded – your tuition, travel, insurance, and daily needs are paid for. Partners of scholars (spouses) can often apply for open work visas too, so they may work in NZ for the same period (although work visas are processed separately).

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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Ready to apply? The process has several key steps. Follow them in order:

1. Check eligibility and complete the online quiz. Go to the official Manaaki NZ Scholarships site and find the eligibility questionnaire. This short quiz will ask about your citizenship, residence, work experience, etc., and will tell you if you can apply. If you are eligible, you will receive an eligibility code. Note: you cannot apply without this code.
2. Register for an account. When applications open, click the “Register” button on the Manaaki Scholarships portal. You will provide your email and create a password for your scholarship account. Enter the eligibility code you got from the quiz. After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email to set your password.
3. Log in and start your application. Once logged in, fill in the online form carefully. You will need to:
   • Provide personal details (ID/passport, contact info, etc.).
   • Choose up to 3 New Zealand universities and specific courses for your study. (You don’t need formal acceptance yet, but you should research programs in advance.)
   • Write answers to essays about your goals, leadership, and how your study will benefit your country. (Keep answers concise and within the word limits.)
   • Upload required documents: academic transcripts, certificates, CV, reference letters, English test scores (if any), and any other evidence needed. Make sure everything is translated into English.
4. Submit before the deadline. Once your form is complete, submit it through the portal. You can save progress and return before the closing date. Be sure to hit “Submit” by midnight (NZ time) on the deadline day. Late or incomplete applications cannot be accepted.
5. Selection process. After submission, MFAT reviews applications and may shortlist candidates for interviews. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview (in person or online) to discuss your plans. Final scholarship offers come later via the New Zealand Foreign Affairs network.

Throughout this process, remember to write clearly in English and be honest. Proofread your answers carefully for grammar and clarity Do not copy others’ essays – the scholarship checks for originality (plagiarism will disqualify you). Demonstrate your passion and commitment: explain why you chose your study field and how it links to your country’s needs. Above all, tell your own story and vision for change.

Ready to start? Apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship now!

Important Deadlines

Application dates vary by country and by intake (undergraduate vs postgraduate). In general:

• Most countries (general intake): Applications for the next academic year usually open in late winter/early spring (NZ time). Traditionally, the window has been in February–March for study starting the following year. However, check the official site for the latest schedule. For 2026 entry, applications are expected in early 2026.
• Samoa Foundation intake: Samoa has a special round. For example, the 2025 Samoa intake opens on 1 August 2025 and closes 31 August 2025 (for study starting in 2026).
• Country-specific dates: Exact deadlines depend on your country of citizenship. Some countries with many applicants may close the portal early when quotas fill up. Always apply well before the closing date.

Key tip: Visit the Manaaki Scholarships website and look up the “Application opening and closing dates for your country” link. Mark the relevant dates in your calendar. Set reminders, because once the window closes, you can’t apply until the next year.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight impact: Emphasize how your study will benefit your country. The committee wants candidates who will make a difference back home.
• Follow instructions: Stick to word/character limits and answer every question fully but concisely. Use short paragraphs or bullet points when helpful.
• Be genuine: Use a friendly yet professional tone. Show enthusiasm for your chosen field and for New Zealand as a study destination.
• Proofread: Poor grammar or spelling can hurt your chances. Read your essays aloud or ask someone to check your English.
• Prepare documents early: Get transcripts, references and any tests (IELTS/TOEFL) done months in advance. Reference letters should come from professors or employers who know your work ethic.
• Learn about NZ: Show that you’ve researched life in New Zealand. Mention aspects like NZ’s high-quality education, multicultural environment and safety – things international scholars appreciate.
• Connect with alumni: If possible, talk to past Manaaki scholars (via social media or scholarship forums). Their stories and advice can guide you.

Finally, stay positive and confident. Thousands have applied and succeeded before – with careful preparation, you could be next!

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Conclusion

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 2025 is an incredible chance to grow academically and personally, while making a real difference for your home country. It offers a truly fully funded path to top-tier education in a supportive environment. If you meet the criteria and have a passion to contribute, don’t hesitate to apply. Check your eligibility, get your documents in order, and prepare a thoughtful application. Share this opportunity with friends and teachers who might also benefit.

Start your global journey – apply for the Manaaki Scholarship today! Believe in yourself and your potential to become a leader. Your future (and your country) will thank you. Good luck!

“Education is the passport to your future.”