New Zealand Development Scholarships (NZDS)

A New Zealand development scholarship is a scholarship scheme that enables those from target countries to undertake development-related studies. The scholarship is highly applauded and aimed at individuals from developing countries to study in New Zealand and the Pacific . It is funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme and the New Zealand Government’s Overseas Aid and Development Programme , and managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Scholarship Overview:

The New Zealand Development Scholarships are for candidates from selected developing countries the opportunity to conduct studies specified subject areas, which will help them to return to home county and use their knowledge and skills in the development of their country. Upon completion of the scholarship, awardees are obligated to return to their home country for no less than two years. While in the country by applying the gained skills and knowledge to the government, civil society, or private business organizations . The scholarships are important, empowering, fulfilling, and enable to harness potential and leadership to provide an attitude and improve on potential in the home country.

Host School(s):

The New Zealand Development Scholarships (NZDS) are hosted by various universities in New Zealand and participating Pacific universities, including:

New Zealand:

1. Auckland University of Technology
2. Lincoln University
3. Massey University
4. Unitec Institute of Technology
5. University of Auckland
6. University of Canterbury
7. University of Otago
8. Victoria University of Wellington
9. Manukau Institute of Technology

Pacific:

1. University of South Pacific
2. Fiji National University
3. University of Papua New Guinea
4. Pacific Adventist University

Fields of Study

Preference is given to subjects in priority sectors that are relevant to the development needs of your country, as listed below:

• Agricultural development (flagship priority)
• Renewable energy (flagship priority)
• Private sector development
• Health
• Fisheries
• Disaster risk management
• Education
• Engineering and Infrastructure (including construction)

Scholarships are available for postgraduate certificate courses (6 months), Postgraduate Diploma (9 months), Master’s programs (1-2 years), and PhD programs (3-4 years).

Scholarship Coverage

These Scholarships provide the following financial support:

• Full tuition fees
• A living allowance of NZ$480 per week
• An establishment allowance of NZ$3000 to help with set up costs in New Zealand, e.g. textbooks, accommodation, and study materials
• Medical and travel insurance
• Travel to and from one’s home country at the start and end of the scholarship
• Home leave or reunion travel for some scholars
• Assistance with research and thesis costs for many postgraduate research students.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a New Zealand Development Scholarship, applicants from all eligible countries must meet the following conditions:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of starting the scholarship
• Be a resident in a country that is on the list of eligible countries
• Be a citizen of the country they are living in
• Have lived in this country for at least the last two years (unless a member of the diplomatic corps or a dependent of a member of the diplomatic corps)
• Not currently serving in the military
• Want to study in New Zealand or the Pacific and meet immigration requirements for a student visa
• Meet the academic entry requirements for the preferred program of study
• Have not been previously terminated from a New Zealand Government Scholarship
• Demonstrate a commitment to returning to one’s country for a minimum of two years at the end of the scholarship
• Have at least two years of work experience (unless applying straight from school or in the first year of tertiary study)
• Not have permanent residence or citizenship of certain specified countries
• Demonstrate strong academic ability and leadership qualities
• Be committed to the development of one’s home country
• Be 39 years or younger when the scholarship starts

How to Apply

Application processes and timelines can vary depending on the country. Applicants should:

• Confirm eligibility
• Create a Real Me Login for online applications or get a copy of an application form for paper applications
• Register with New Zealand Development Scholarships online
• Complete the application, ensuring all required documents are attached
• Submit the application before the country deadline

For online applications, applicants should take the online eligibility test and create a Real Me Login. For paper applications, applicants should obtain an application form from the New Zealand embassy or High Commission in their country and submit the completed application along with required documents.

Closing Date

The closing date for online applications varies.

How to Get More Information

For more information, visit the official website: New Zealand Government Scholarships