AK Travels Limited

Applications are now open for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2026-2027, a prestigious fully funded scholarship programme funded by the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

The scholarship is designed to support talented students from eligible developing countries who wish to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies at leading institutions in New Zealand. The programme aims to equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to the social and economic development of their home countries after graduation.

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is widely recognized as one of the most comprehensive government-funded scholarship programmes available to international students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and several additional benefits.

Summary

• Scholarship Name: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2026-2027
• Host Country: New Zealand
• Funded By: New Zealand Government (MFAT)
• Study Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Selected Postgraduate Programmes
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
• Eligible Applicants: Citizens of Eligible Developing Countries
• Funding Coverage: Tuition Fees, Living Allowance, Travel Costs, Medical Insurance, Establishment Allowance, Research Support
• Participating Institutions: Approved New Zealand Universities and Education Institutions
• Application Mode: Online
• Official Website: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/

About the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Programme invests in the education and development of individuals who have the potential to contribute meaningfully to the future growth of their countries.

The scholarship places strong emphasis on development impact. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their proposed studies align with the development priorities of their home country and how they intend to contribute to national development after completing their education. Scholars are generally expected to return home and contribute to their country’s social and economic progress for at least two years after graduation.

The programme supports studies in approved subject areas that are relevant to the development needs of participating countries.

Scholarship Benefits

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is fully funded and may provide:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Living allowance (stipend)
• Establishment allowance upon arrival
• Return airfare to New Zealand
• Medical and travel insurance support
• Research and thesis support for eligible postgraduate students
• Academic support services
• Opportunity to study at world-class institutions
• Networking opportunities with international scholars

The scholarship is structured to reduce financial barriers and allow students to focus on their academic and professional development.

Eligible Levels of Study

Depending on country eligibility and scholarship availability, applicants may pursue:

• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Postgraduate Diplomas
• Master’s Degrees
• Doctoral (PhD) Programmes

Available study options vary by country and programme requirements. Applicants should check the country-specific eligibility information before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, applicants generally must:

• Be a citizen of an eligible country
• Be at least 18 years old at the time of scholarship commencement
• Have lived in their home country for at least two years before applying
• Meet academic entry requirements for their intended programme
• Demonstrate commitment to contributing to their country’s development
• Meet English language requirements if selected
• Not currently be serving in the military
• Meet all visa and immigration requirements

There is generally no upper age limit, although preference may be given to younger applicants with strong long-term development potential.

Work Experience Requirements

For postgraduate applicants, relevant work experience is usually required.

Applicants typically need:

• One year of full-time work experience

OR

• Two years of part-time work experience

Work experience may be paid, unpaid, voluntary, or professional, provided it is relevant to the applicant’s field of study and development goals.

English Language Requirements

Shortlisted candidates may be required to provide evidence of English proficiency through recognized tests such as:

• IELTS
• TOEFL
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge Academic English

The exact score requirements depend on the chosen institution and programme. Applicants generally do not need to submit English test results during the initial application stage, but shortlisted candidates may be required to do so later.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are assessed based on:

• Academic achievement
• Leadership potential
• Work experience
• Development impact
• Community involvement
• Alignment between study plans and national development priorities
• Commitment to returning home after studies

Preference is often given to candidates who can clearly demonstrate how their education will contribute to sustainable development in their home country.

Required Documents

Applicants may need:

• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Passport or identification documents
• Employment records
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Development impact statements
• Reference letters
• Additional supporting documents

Document requirements may vary depending on country and study level.

How To Apply for Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships

Step 1: Check Country Eligibility

Visit the official Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website and verify that your country is eligible.

Step 2: Complete the Eligibility Test

Use the online eligibility assessment tool to determine whether you qualify to apply. Eligible applicants receive an eligibility code.

Step 3: Create an Application Account

Register through the official scholarship application portal.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents

Gather academic records, employment documents, identification documents, and supporting materials.

Step 5: Complete the Online Application

Fill in all required sections and submit your application before the deadline.

Step 6: Await Shortlisting and Further Instructions

Shortlisted candidates may later be asked to provide certified documents, English language test results, and participate in interviews.

Why Apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship?

Successful applicants benefit from:

• Fully funded education
• Internationally recognized qualifications
• Access to top New Zealand institutions
• Leadership development opportunities
• Professional networking
• Research and innovation exposure
• Long-term career advancement
• Contribution to national development goals

The scholarship is particularly valuable for students committed to creating positive change in their communities after graduation.

Important Notes for Applicants

• Country-specific eligibility rules apply.
• Available courses differ by country.
• Postgraduate applicants usually require work experience.
• Applicants must be committed to returning home after studies.
• Scholarship applications are highly competitive.
• Early preparation is strongly recommended.

Application Deadline

Application dates vary by country and scholarship category.

For most eligible countries, applications generally open during the first quarter of the year. Applicants should regularly check the official Manaaki Scholarships website for country-specific opening and closing dates.

Official Application Link

Official Scholarship Website:

Related Opportunities

• Wellington Scholarship Program in New Zealand 2026 | Fully Funded
• University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship 2026-27
• Australian National University RTP Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded
• McCall MacBain Scholarships in Canada 2027 (Fully Funded)
• Knight-Hennessy Scholarship Program 2027 in the USA (Fully Funded)

Final Note from AK Travels LTD

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 2026-2027 provide an exceptional opportunity for students from developing countries to access world-class education while building the skills needed to contribute to their nations’ development.

At AK Travels LTD (www.aktravelsltd.com), we encourage applicants to begin preparing early by researching eligible courses, strengthening their academic profiles, documenting relevant work experience, and clearly demonstrating how their studies will create long-term impact in their communities.

Because the scholarship is highly competitive and development-focused, applicants who present a strong vision for national development and community impact often have a significant advantage during the selection process.