New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships are prestigious scholarships that recognise New Zealand’s history and ties to the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Scholarships are part of theCommonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) – an international programme under which Commonwealth countries offer scholarships and fellowships to citizens of other Commwealth states. The purpose of the scholarships is set out in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (external link), with the following key principles to:
- promote mutual cooperation and share educational experience among all Commonwealth countries
- be available across the Commonwealth
- recognise and promote the highest level of intellectual achievement.
NZ Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme, the New Zealand Government’s overseas aid and development programme. They are managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
Course Level:
You can study these qualifications at one of eleven New Zealand universities and education institutions:
- Postgraduate Certificate (6 months)
- Postgraduate Diploma (1 year)
- Master’s Degree (1-2 years)
- PhD (up to 3.5 years)
Financial benefits
Our scholarships provide the following financial support:
- full tuition fees
- living allowance (stipend) – NZ$480 per week. This is  a contribution to basic living expenses
- an establishment allowance – NZ$3000. This is a contribution to assist with set up costs in New Zealand – for example it can be used towards accommodation expenses, text books, study materials
- medical and travel insurance
- travel to and from your home country – this is for travel from your home country at the start of the scholarship, and for you to return to your home country at the end of your scholarship. Note that we offer our scholarships for the shortest amount of time needed for you to complete the academic programme.
- home leave or reunion travel for some scholars
- assistance with research and thesis costs for many postgraduate research students
Method of Application:
The application process for a New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship is different to other New Zealand Scholarships. Applicants must submit their applications to their country’s ‘Nominating Agency’ first. The Nominating Agency then ‘nominates’ two applicants from the submitted applications to send to the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Read the Commonwealth section of the How to Apply page carefully before you submit an application.
Application Process:
The application process for a New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship is different to other New Zealand Scholarships. Applicants must submit their paper applications to their country’s ‘Nominating Agency’ first. The Nominating Agency then ‘nominates’ two applicants from the submitted applications to send to the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Read the below information carefully before you submit an application.
Note: Applications are open, and will close on 28 March. Applications must arrive at your country’s Commonwealth Nominating Agency by 28 march 2019 at 12:00 pm NZ Time.
Follow these four steps:
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility
Complete the Online Eligibility Test to see if you are eligible to apply. If the Online Eligibility Test confirms that you are eligible, you will get an eligibility code (number).
This eligibility code displays on your screen at the end of the test. You need this eligibility code in Step 3. Please write down your eligibility code.
Step 2: Create a login to access New Zealand government forms online
To access any online form for a New Zealand government department, first you need to register online. This registration system is called RealMe. You will need a RealMe login (username and password) to access the online New Zealand Scholarship application form. You also need the same RealMe login to apply for a student visa if you get a scholarship.
Please remember your RealMe username and password. You need this login to view, edit and submit your New Zealand Scholarship application form.
Note: You will not need to verify your RealMe account with a post office. This is only necessary for New Zealanders.
Step 3: Register with New Zealand Scholarships online application system
Use your eligibility code from Step 1 to register online with the New Zealand Scholarships online application system.
Note: Steps 2 and 3 require you to register with two different IT systems.
Step 4: Complete and submit your application before the closing date
Use your RealMe login to access the New Zealand Scholarship online application system anytime between the opening and closing dates for your country.
Check the opening and closing dates for your country
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships 2019/2020
Scholarship Application Deadline: 28 march 2019 at 12:00 pm NZ Time.
