What if you could study abroad in one of the world’s most peaceful and academically respected countries and get paid $615 NZD every single week to do it? That is not a student loan. It is not a partial tuition waiver. It is not a “50% scholarship” that still leaves you struggling to cover expenses. If you missed out on other global scholarships this year, do not panic. The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are opening soon, and this is one of the largest fully funded international scholarship opportunities available in 2026.
This is a fully funded government scholarship that covers your tuition fees, international flights, weekly living costs, and health insurance, and even provides additional settlement money upon arrival.
The application portal opens on March 1, 2026, and closes on March 31, 2026. That gives you exactly one month to submit a complete and competitive application. If you are serious about studying in New Zealand with full funding, this is the opportunity you need to understand properly.
What Is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship?
The New Zealand Government provides fully funded scholarships to eligible citizens from developing countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific. These scholarships are funded through New Zealand’s international development programme and are specifically designed to build capacity in partner nations.
This is not just a study-abroad opportunity. It is a development-focused scholarship programme that invests in individuals who can return home and contribute meaningfully to their country’s social and economic growth.
A key condition of the scholarship is that recipients must return to their home country for at least two years after completing their studies. The goal is that scholars gain global education and skills, then use that knowledge to drive positive change back home.
In other words, this scholarship is about leadership, impact, and long-term transformation, not just earning a foreign degree.
The Full Scholarship Package: What You Actually Receive
One of the biggest reasons the Manaaki Scholarship stands out globally is its robust financial support package. This is what a truly fully funded scholarship looks like in 2026.
- Full Tuition Coverage: Your tuition fees are paid directly to your chosen university or education institution in New Zealand. There are no hidden balances and no partial coverage gaps. From the first semester to the final one, your academic costs are handled.
- Round-Trip International Flights: The scholarship covers your airfare from your home country to New Zealand at the beginning of your programme and your return ticket after you complete your studies.
- Weekly Living Allowance of NZ$615: Scholars receive a living allowance of NZ$615 per week. This stipend is designed to cover accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and general living expenses. Every month, that amounts to more than NZ$2,400, which provides substantial financial stability while you focus on your academic work.
- NZ$3,000 Establishment Allowance: When you first arrive in New Zealand, you receive a one-time payment of NZ$3,000 to help you settle in. This allowance can be used to purchase warm clothing, textbooks, accommodation essentials, and other necessary items.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance is included for the duration of your scholarship. This ensures that you are covered for healthcare needs while studying abroad.
Together, these benefits make the Manaaki Scholarship one of the most generous government-funded scholarships available to international students.
Application Timeline for 2026
If you are considering applying, the timeline is extremely important.
- Portal Opens: March 1, 2026
- Portal Closes: March 31, 2026
Applications are accepted only during this window. Once the portal closes, late submissions will not be accepted. To apply, search for “Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2026” or visit the official government website.
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Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Before you begin preparing documents, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of eligible developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, or the Pacific region. Each country has specific scholarship allocations and priority subject areas.
- Residency Requirement: Applicants must have lived in their home country for at least two years before applying. This ensures that scholars are genuinely connected to the communities they will serve after graduation. Exceptions may apply to those on diplomatic assignments or certain approved overseas engagements.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old at the time your scholarship begins. While there is no strict upper age limit, preference is generally given to applicants under 40.
Work Experience Requirement
For postgraduate applicants, work experience is mandatory. You must demonstrate either:
- One year of full-time work experience (30 hours or more per week), or
- Two years of part-time work experience (up to 29 hours per week).
Work experience can be paid, unpaid, or voluntary, but it must be relevant to your intended field of study. The selection panel gives strong preference to candidates whose proposed academic programme directly aligns with their professional background and future development goals.
What Can You Study Under the Manaaki Scholarship?
Manaaki Scholarships are only awarded for specific priority subject areas that support national development. These fields typically include:
- Climate change and environmental sustainability
- Agriculture and food security
- Public health and medical sciences
- Renewable energy and infrastructure
- Governance, public policy, and development studies
Each eligible country has recommended subjects aligned with its national development priorities. It is crucial to review your country’s scholarship page before selecting a degree programme.
English Language Requirements Explained
Many applicants assume they must submit IELTS or TOEFL scores immediately. That is not the case. English test scores are not required at the initial application stage. Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide proof of English proficiency.
Accepted tests include:
- IELTS
- TOEFL (internet-based)
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge Academic English (Advanced)
For postgraduate study, a general minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) is typically required. For undergraduate programmes, a general minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (with no band below 5.5) is common. However, specific courses may require higher scores.
In some eligible countries, the programme organises and pays for IELTS testing for shortlisted applicants. In other cases, if you pay for the test yourself, your institution may reimburse the cost after you arrive in New Zealand.
Additionally, some preferred candidates who score slightly below the required threshold may qualify for funded English language training before beginning their degree programme.
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Types of Manaaki Scholarships Available
The New Zealand government offers several scholarship categories under the Manaaki programme.
1. Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships
These are full tertiary scholarships for eligible international students to study full-time at a New Zealand or Pacific education institution.
2. Vocational Short-Term Training Scholarships
These short-term scholarships focus on skills training and on-the-job experience for workers from eligible countries.
3. Thematic Short-Term Cohort Training Scholarships
These are specialised training programmes developed to address shared skills gaps across regions and countries.
4. English Language Training for Officials (NZELTO)
These scholarships support government officials from eligible African and Asian countries who wish to undertake English language training in New Zealand.
Among these options, the fully funded undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships remain the most competitive and widely sought after.
Why Study in New Zealand?
Beyond the financial support, studying in New Zealand, also known as Aotearoa, offers an exceptional academic and cultural experience. The country is globally respected for its research-driven universities, inclusive learning environment, and high quality of life.
Scholars not only gain internationally recognised qualifications but also build lifelong networks with peers from around the world. The experience of studying in New Zealand often shapes careers, leadership abilities, and long-term global opportunities.
Most importantly, Manaaki scholars return home equipped with the expertise, confidence, and global perspective needed to drive change within their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Nigeria Eligible for the New Zealand Scholarship?
Nigeria has been included among eligible countries in previous intakes, but eligibility can change. Applicants must check the official country eligibility list on the scholarship website to confirm whether Nigeria is eligible for the 2026 intake.
Many New Zealand universities also offer scholarships and MBA funding opportunities for Nigerian students independently of the Manaaki programme.
Is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Legit?
Yes, the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are fully legitimate and funded through New Zealand’s international aid programme. They are administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to promote sustainable development in partner countries and build lasting international relationships.
How Much Is the Manaaki Scholarship Stipend?
Scholars receive a living allowance (stipend) of NZ$615 per week, in addition to full tuition coverage, travel costs, health insurance, and establishment allowances.
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If your goal is immediate migration with no intention of returning home, this scholarship may not align with your plans. However, if you are passionate about gaining a world-class education and using it to create a measurable impact in your country, the Manaaki Scholarship is one of the best opportunities available in 2026.
With full tuition, free flights, NZ$615 weekly allowance, settlement funds, health insurance, and leadership development support, this programme offers more than funding; it offers transformation.
The portal opens on March 1, 2026, and closes on March 31, 2026. Prepare your documents early, review your country’s eligibility page carefully, and submit your application on time.
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