New Zealand’s scholarship ecosystem plays a central role in making higher education more affordable for both domestic and international students. By lowering financial barriers, these scholarships enable access to quality education and promote research-driven academic growth. They also support New Zealand’s vision of becoming a leading global education hub by attracting talented students from across the world, including India.Expanding access through financial support Scholarships offered by New Zealand’s universities and government agencies are introduced to encourage diversity and strengthen academic excellence. For international students, they not only provide financial relief but also promote cultural exchange and collaboration in key research areas such as sustainable agriculture, climate science, and technology.

The government’s growing investment in education funding and scholarships is expected to further increase international student enrolment, particularly in postgraduate and research-based programmes, as per a report by University Living. Universities are also expanding their scholarship portfolios to stay competitive and maintain New Zealand’s global standing as an affordable, high-quality study destination.

Scholarships for Indian studentsAccording to a report by University Living, New Zealand has emerged as a popular destination for Indian students, with targeted scholarships helping bridge financial gaps. The New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA), offered by Education New Zealand, grant NZ$10,000 to Indian students with strong academic records. Similarly, the Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship for India offers up to NZ$15,000 (approximately USD 9,000) for undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate academic merit and leadership potential.
Scholarships for international students Among the most recognised programmes is the New Zealand–Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarship (NZ-GRADS), funded by the New Zealand government. It supports PhD students working in areas related to sustainable agriculture, offering NZ$78,000 (around USD 46,645). This initiative reflects the country’s focus on research that contributes to global sustainability goals.

The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is another key offering, providing NZ$18,204 as an annual stipend along with a partial tuition fee waiver. It is open to high-achieving students pursuing a master’s degree by research.

Opportunities for local students For New Zealand citizens, the New Zealand Scholarship NZQA Premier Award supports students from high school through undergraduate studies. Valued at NZ$10,000 per year for three years, the award recognises consistent academic excellence and encourages local students to continue higher education within the country.By linking financial aid to academic excellence and research priorities, New Zealand’s scholarship framework supports both students and institutions. It encourages global collaboration and helps sustain New Zealand’s reputation as a destination known for innovation, inclusivity, and quality education. For Indian students, these scholarships provide a viable pathway to study in a world-class system without excessive financial burden.

With increased government investment and university-led initiatives, New Zealand continues to position itself as an accessible and globally competitive education hub for the next generation of learners.