Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying in New Zealand. While the New Zealand government's primary scholarship programmes target Pacific Island nations and do not extend to Nepal, most New Zealand universities offer merit-based international scholarships that Nepali students can compete for. This 2026 guide covers the most valuable awards available, their amounts, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.
Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying in New Zealand. While the New Zealand government’s primary scholarship programmes target Pacific Island nations and do not extend to Nepal, most New Zealand universities offer merit-based international scholarships that Nepali students can compete for. This 2026 guide covers the most valuable awards available, their amounts, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.
Can Nepali Students Get New Zealand Government Scholarships?
It is important to clarify a common point of confusion: the New Zealand government’s main international scholarship programme — the New Zealand Pacific Scholarships and New Zealand ASEAN Scholarships — is not open to Nepali citizens. These programmes are targeted specifically at students from Pacific Island nations and selected ASEAN countries. Nepal is not included in either programme as of 2026.
However, this does not mean scholarships are unavailable. New Zealand’s eight universities each offer their own international merit scholarships, and several of these are genuinely competitive and accessible to Nepali students with strong academic records.
Top University Scholarships for Nepali Students
| Scholarship | Amount (NZD) | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Auckland International Excellence Award | NZD 10,000 (first year) | High GPA, full-time undergrad/postgrad | December / June intakes |
| Victoria University International Excellence Award | NZD 10,000 | Academic merit, all international students | Rolling — apply with admission |
| Canterbury International Excellence Scholarship | NZD 10,000 | Undergraduate students with high academic achievement | November for February intake |
| AUT International Undergraduate Scholarship | NZD 5,000–10,000 | GPA equivalent of B+ or above | Ongoing, assessed on application |
| Massey Vice-Chancellor’s International Excellence Award | NZD 10,000 | All programmes, merit-based | Ongoing — assessed automatically |
| Otago International Excellence Scholarship | NZD 10,000 | All international students, merit-based | Multiple rounds annually |
How to Maximise Your Scholarship Chances
New Zealand university scholarships are competitive but realistic for well-prepared students. Here are key strategies to improve your chances:
- Apply for admission early — many scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis among eligible applicants
- Maintain a strong GPA from your +2 or bachelor’s studies (typically a B+ equivalent or above is required)
- Write a compelling personal statement that links your academic background to your study goals in New Zealand
- Apply to multiple universities simultaneously to increase your scholarship chances
- Ask your EVEC counsellor to highlight your scholarship eligibility in the application — some universities automatically assess all international applicants for their merit awards
Research Scholarships at Postgraduate Level
Students pursuing master’s by research or PhD programmes should also explore university-specific research scholarships, which can cover both tuition fees and provide a living stipend. The University of Auckland, Victoria University of Wellington, and the University of Otago offer funded research positions in various fields. Contact your intended supervisor directly about funding opportunities before applying.
Application Tips
- Start researching scholarships at least six months before your intended intake
- Most NZ university scholarships do not require a separate application — they are assessed as part of your admission application
- Ensure your academic transcripts are officially translated and certified
- Some universities require a portfolio or research proposal — check individual scholarship requirements carefully
Are there New Zealand government scholarships for Nepali students?
Unfortunately, the main New Zealand government scholarship programmes (Pacific Scholarships and ASEAN Scholarships) are not open to Nepali citizens. However, all eight New Zealand universities offer their own international merit scholarships that Nepali students can apply for, typically worth NZD 5,000–10,000.
How much can Nepali students receive through NZ university scholarships?
Most NZ university international excellence scholarships are worth NZD 10,000 for the first year of study. While this does not cover full tuition, it represents a meaningful reduction — approximately 25–40% of annual fees at many universities.
Do I need to apply separately for NZ university scholarships?
Most New Zealand universities automatically assess all international applicants for their merit scholarships as part of the admission process. However, some specific scholarships require a separate application or additional documents such as a personal statement or reference letters.
What GPA do I need to get a scholarship at a New Zealand university?
Most NZ university international excellence scholarships require an academic record equivalent to a B+ average or above (approximately 75–80% in the Nepali grading system). Some universities such as the University of Auckland set higher thresholds for their top scholarship tiers.
- NZ Excellence Awards (ENZ) (www.studywithnewzealand.govt.nz)
- NZ scholarships (immigration.govt.nz) (www.immigration.govt.nz)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there New Zealand government scholarships for Nepali students?
Unfortunately, the main New Zealand government scholarship programmes (Pacific Scholarships and ASEAN Scholarships) are not open to Nepali citizens. However, all eight New Zealand universities offer their own international merit scholarships that Nepali students can apply for, typically worth NZD 5,000–10,000.
How much can Nepali students receive through NZ university scholarships?
Most NZ university international excellence scholarships are worth NZD 10,000 for the first year of study. While this does not cover full tuition, it represents a meaningful reduction — approximately 25–40% of annual fees at many universities.
Do I need to apply separately for NZ university scholarships?
Most New Zealand universities automatically assess all international applicants for their merit scholarships as part of the admission process. However, some specific scholarships require a separate application or additional documents such as a personal statement or reference letters.
What GPA do I need to get a scholarship at a New Zealand university?
Most NZ university international excellence scholarships require an academic record equivalent to a B+ average or above (approximately 75–80% in the Nepali grading system). Some universities such as the University of Auckland set higher thresholds for their top scholarship tiers.
Get Expert Guidance from EVEC
EVEC has helped thousands of Nepali students successfully study abroad since 2005. Our AIRC-certified counsellors provide personalised guidance at every step — from choosing the right university to visa lodgement. Book your free consultation today.