Embark on an educational journey in New Zealand, where Indonesian students can explore a range of scholarship opportunities in world-renowned universities. All eight New Zealand universities rank within the top 500 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2024, offering not only high-quality education but also intimate class sizes for enhanced learning experiences. Students are drawn to New Zealand for its perfect blend of affordable costs, exceptional education standards, and rich travel opportunities across the country.

Numerous scholarships are available from both universities and the New Zealand government. A notable option for international students is the New Zealand Government Scholarship, a fully funded programme that comprehensively covers tuition fees, living expenses, and accommodation, paving the way for an enriching academic adventure.

Wondering how to get a scholarship in New Zealand? Dive deeper into the myriad of scholarship options that New Zealand offers to foster your academic and professional aspirations.

Common types of international student scholarships in New Zealand

  • Merit-Based scholarships: Merit-based scholarships celebrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and distinctive talents. Students demonstrating exceptional academic achievements, coupled with a well-rounded portfolio of extracurricular activities, may find themselves apt candidates for these scholarships, easing their journey through New Zealand’s distinguished education system.

  • Departmental scholarships: These scholarships are extended by specific departments within a university, targeting students pursuing particular fields of study. Eligibility is often determined by the prospective student's intended major, with a focus on their academic prowess and commitment to their chosen discipline.

  • Diversity scholarships: Diversity scholarships aim to enrich the campus community by supporting students from varied backgrounds and cultures. A well-rounded application showcasing experiences affiliated with their background, ethnicity, culture, or other aspects of diversity, as well as academic accomplishments can be the gateway to securing this scholarship in New Zealand.

  • Research scholarships: Research scholarships like the New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) are granted to students who demonstrate exceptional academic or research potential. These scholarships enable recipients to focus on their research projects without the financial burden of tuition fees.

  • Government scholarships: With offerings like the New Zealand ASEAN Scholarships (NZAS) and New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships, the government provides avenues for international students to experience New Zealand's undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, fostering the exchange of knowledge and cultures.

How to get a scholarship in New Zealand

Eligibility criteria for Indonesian students

Eligibility criteria for undergraduate courses:

  • Students must have completed their higher secondary education, which is deemed equivalent to New Zealand year 13.

  • A score of 50-60% or above is required as per the cut-off range set by a college/university.

  • Language proficiency test scores such as IELTS (Check with the university for the minimum IELTS score).

 Eligibility criteria for postgraduate courses:

  • A minimum score of 50-60% in undergraduate studies.

  • GMAT or GRE grades for students aiming for management studies.

  • Some universities consider internships and work experience in the concerned field of study.

  • English proficiency test such as IELTS (Check with the university for the minimum IELTS score).

Eligibility criteria for MBA courses:

  • A bachelor’s degree with a score of 70% or above.

  • A minimum score in your IELTS test is necessary for each module (Check with the university for the minimum IELTS score.

  • A minimum of four to five years of work and internship experience in your related field.

Basic requirements for studying in New Zealand:

  • Proof of funding to claim that you will be able to afford all the educational expenses incurred during the course, including food and accommodation.

  • Prepare a promising Statement of Purpose (SOP) to send to your target universities for approval. You will only be able to apply for a student visa if your SOP is accepted.

  • A passport from the native country valid for at least three months post-completion of the desired degree in the country.

  • Students who are going to study in New Zealand on a scholarship or government funding must provide all the related documents and certificates.

Application process and timeline

In New Zealand, students generally have two primary intake options: January and July. The January intake commences at the start of the year, with application deadlines typically scheduled between August and September. Conversely, the July intake occurs midway through the year, necessitating prospective students to submit their applications by the deadline, usually falling between February and March.

Understanding the application process and timeline, and meticulously fulfilling every requirement is crucial for prospective students from Indonesia. Detailed attention to application guidelines ensures a seamless process, elevating the chances of securing a scholarship in New Zealand.

 Craft a compelling scholarship application

Constructing an impactful personal statement, spotlighting significant academic and extracurricular achievements, and acquiring persuasive recommendations are essential elements in creating a compelling scholarship application.

At IDP, we provide comprehensive guidance to students, assisting them in navigating through the application intricacies to fulfil their dream of studying abroad in New Zealand on a scholarship. Chat with us today.

Quality scholarships & benefits of studying in New Zealand 

Apart from a variety of scholarships, studying in New Zealand brings many benefits that go beyond financial aid. These include:

  • Obtain internationally recognised degrees that will allow you to access better job opportunities and career advancements.

  • The ability to study and work up in part-time jobs and internships for work experience. Students can work up to 20 hours per week.

  • Upon graduation from a New Zealand university, students can stay and work in the country for up to three years with a post-study work visa.

  • New Zealand is a safe and peaceful country, ranking the second out of 163 countries in the 2023 Global Peace Index.

  • Improve your English language skills, experience a unique culture and enjoy many travelling opportunities in various cities and amidst nature.

Disclaimer for Reading Partial Scholarship Information from Educational Institutions

* Partial Scholarship Information from IDP’s Educational Institutions Partners may change at any time without notice and it is possible that this article has not been updated in accordance with these changes. Please contact the IDP Education office for more information by filling out the form on this page!

* IDP is not a scholarship provider. IDP is an overseas educational consulting agency. IDP Education counselors can guide you to get a Letter of Acceptance from Educational Institutions and Universities in Australia, United Kingdom, Ireland, United States, Canada, and New Zealand as your first step to study abroad.

List of scholarships for Indonesians looking to study in New Zealand

Below is a list of some of the scholarships offered in New Zealand universities.

University of Canterbury, NZ

University of Canterbury, NZ

Scholarship Name

Amount

UC International First Year Scholarship

NZ $15K for 1st year Undergraduate students

UC College of Engineering International scholarship

NZ $15k for 1st Year Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)

Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington

Scholarship Name

Amount

Tongarewa Scholarship

NZ$5,000 or NZ$10,000 available to undergraduate and postgraduate students

University of Otago

University of Otago

Scholarship Name

Amount

Vice-Chancellor’s scholarship for International students(Undergraduate)

NZD$ 10,000 for tuition fees

This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible international students who are offered a place in an eligible programme and will be starting full-time, full-year, undergraduate study

University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship

NZD$ 10,000 towards fees in the first instance

The University of Waikato

The University of Waikato

Scholarship Name

Amount

Fee Discount

20% discount available to international students

International Excellence Scholarship

Up to $20,000 (NZD)

Apart from university-specific scholarships, the New Zealand Government also offers scholarships that Indonesian students can apply for based on merit.

New Zealand Government Scholarship for Indonesians

The New Zealand Government Scholarship stands as a beacon of opportunity for Indonesian students, providing a comprehensive package to support their academic journey. This prestigious scholarship is tailored for high-performing students, covering the full duration of their study programme in New Zealand. Recipients benefit from a full tuition fee waiver, alongside a living allowance, accommodation allowances, medical insurance, and even travel costs.

Applicable to both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, this scholarship represents a significant investment in the future of promising international students. Additionally, the scholarship extends its support beyond financial aid, as the recipient's university in New Zealand takes an active role in arranging both travel and accommodation. This holistic approach ensures that students can focus entirely on their academic and cultural experiences in New Zealand.

Wondering which scholarships in New Zealand to apply for? We can help! Let us guide you through the entire process including your course selection and visa application. Speak to our education specialist at no cost today.