Full Tuition & NZ$615 Weekly Stipend: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2026 Guide
The Government of New Zealand has officially opened the application portal for the 2026 Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships. As one of the most comprehensive “full-ride” programs in the world, this scholarship is designed to transform the lives of international students from developing countries. By covering everything from airfare to a generous weekly salary, New Zealand is inviting the next generation of global leaders to study at its world-class universities.
Funding Breakdown and Award Value
The Manaaki scholarship is fully funded, meaning there are zero out-of-pocket costs for selected scholars. The financial package is designed to let you focus entirely on your leadership development and research.
| Benefit Category | Award Value / Coverage |
| Full Tuition Fees | 100% Covered for the duration of your degree. |
| Living Allowance (Stipend) | NZ$615 per week (Paid fortnightly for your daily expenses). |
| Establishment Allowance | NZ$3,000 (One-time payment to help with arrival costs). |
| Medical Insurance | Full Coverage while you are in New Zealand. |
| Airfare & Travel | 100% Covered (Initial flight to NZ and return flight home). |
| Research & Thesis Fund | Additional Grants available for postgraduate research. |
| Reintegration Award | NZ$1,000 (Paid upon your return home after graduation). |
| PRO TIP: Family Visits | FREE Flights Home provided if your course is longer than 1.6 years. |
Candidate Requirements
New Zealand looks for “Community Leaders” rather than just “Academic High-Achievers.” To be eligible for 2026, you must meet these core standards:
- Eligible Countries: Open to citizens of selected countries in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and Latin America.
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old at the start of the scholarship. While there is no upper limit, those under 40 are preferred.
- Work Experience: You must have 1 year of full-time (30+ hours/week) or 2 years of part-time work experience. This can be paid, unpaid, or voluntary.
- Commitment: You must agree to return to your home country for at least two years after graduation to contribute to its development.
- Residency: You must have lived in your home country for the last two years prior to applying.
Application Strategy
This scholarship is highly competitive, and the application form is detailed. To stand out:
Your chosen subject must match the “Priority Sectors” for your country (e.g., Climate Change, Renewable Energy, or Food Security).You must complete an online “Eligibility Quiz” before you can access the main application. If you pass, you will receive a unique code.The form asks for examples of problem-solving and relationship-building. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to write these answers.
Application Deadlines and Key Dates
The 2026 application cycle is strictly timed. Mark your calendar for these critical windows:
- Applications Open: 1 March 2026 (Midnight NZDT).
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2026 (Midday NZDT).
- Notification of Shortlist: July – August 2026.
- Academic Start: February 2027 (Semester 1).
Official Source
To take the eligibility quiz and begin your 2026 application, visit the official government portal:
1.https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/
2.https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/how-to-apply-for-a-scholarship