The University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships 2025–2026 offer an excellent opportunity for high-achieving international students to pursue undergraduate or master’s (taught) degrees in New Zealand. Valued at up to NZD $10,000, this merit-based scholarship is awarded to up to 50 students annually and is intended to support their tuition fees for the first semester of study. The scholarship is open to new international students enrolling in a full-time program for at least one year.
Established in 2016, the scholarship aims to attract talented students from around the globe and enhance the University of Auckland’s international profile. As New Zealand’s top-ranked university, the institution provides students with a world-class education and a welcoming academic environment. With global recognition for academic excellence and employer reputation, the University of Auckland ranks 81st worldwide in the QS World University Rankings and is the highest-ranked university in New Zealand.
This scholarship reinforces the university’s commitment to welcoming exceptional international students to campus and fostering a diverse and dynamic learning community.
Summary
Host Institution: University of Auckland
Scholarship Location: New Zealand
Category: Undergraduate / Master’s (Taught) / PG Diploma
Eligible Countries: All nationalities
Details of the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships 2025
The University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship is awarded to new international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and intend to study full-time in either undergraduate or postgraduate (taught master’s) programs. The goal is to support high-calibre students from abroad and help integrate them into the University’s vibrant learning environment.
Up to 50 scholarships are offered annually. Each award is valued at up to NZD $10,000 and paid as a tuition fee credit toward the student’s first semester of study. The scholarship applies only to compulsory tuition and student services fees directly related to the enrolled academic program.
The program does not support Research Masters students, distance education students, or domestic students (including New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, and Australian residents). It is strictly for international students with no prior qualifications from New Zealand’s foundation or secondary education providers.
Benefits of the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships 2025
Successful applicants of the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship will receive:
- Up to NZD $10,000 for tuition fees
- Payment is applied as a compulsory fee credit for the first semester
- Opportunity to study at New Zealand’s top-ranked university
- Access to academic, cultural, and professional development resources
- Scholarship may be held concurrently with other awards
Eligibility for the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships 2025
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Language Requirement: Proficiency in English
- Nationality: Open to all countries except citizens/permanent residents of New Zealand or Australia
- Academic Level: Applicants must be enrolling in a Master’s (taught) program of 120 points or more, or a full undergraduate degree
- Status: Must be new to the University of Auckland and enrolled as an “on-campus” student
- Not Eligible:
- Students in Research master’s programs
- Students from the University of Auckland Foundation Providers (e.g., UP Education, Taylors College)
- Students enrolled in distance education or online study
- New Zealand secondary school leavers
- The scholarship cannot be deferred; a new application must be submitted if studies are delayed.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents and information before applying:
- Evidence of application or admission to the University of Auckland
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of intent or motivation
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Any other documents required by the university or program of study
How to Apply for the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarships 2025
Step 1: Apply for Admission to the University of Auckland
You must either be a current student or have recently applied for admission to a full-time undergraduate or taught master’s program at the University of Auckland.
Step 2: Review the Scholarship Regulations
Before applying, carefully read the official regulations of the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship. This ensures that you understand all eligibility criteria, obligations, and terms of the award.
Step 3: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Gather all necessary documents, which may include your academic transcripts, curriculum vitae (CV), statement of intent, proof of English language proficiency, and admission offer (if available). Make sure they meet the university’s formatting and submission standards.
Step 4: Access the Online Scholarship Application Portal
Visit the University of Auckland’s scholarship application portal. You can access it via the official scholarship page.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application Form
Log in or create an account, then carefully fill out the online application form. Provide accurate personal information, details about your chosen program, and upload your supporting documents.
Step 6: Submit the Application Before the Deadline
Ensure your scholarship application is submitted during the relevant application window:
- Semester One Intake: 11 September 2025 – 23 October 2025
- Semester Two Intake: 01 February 2025 – 01 April 2025
Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Step 7: Monitor Your Email for Updates
After submission, regularly check your email inbox (and spam folder) for any communication from the University of Auckland. You may be contacted for further information or notified of the scholarship decision.
Application Deadlines
- 1 April 2025 (Semester 2 2025/Quarter 3 2025/Quarter 4 2025 intake) and 23 October 2025 (Semester One 2026/Quarter 1 2026/Quarter 2 2026 intake)
Applications must be submitted before the closing date of each intake period. Late applications will not be accepted.
For complete details and to access the scholarship portal, visit the link below.
