How to Apply for Scholarships in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, high-quality education can come at a high price. Even after exhausting all your financial aids, you may still find yourself in deep financial trouble. 

Scholarships are a great way to support your education. In New Zealand, the government, universities, and philanthropists award scholarships to students who meet the criteria. 

Apart from the financial reward, a scholarship in New Zealand offers many benefits to foreign students. To get these, you must first obtain a scholarship. 

If you’re still unsure about the scholarship application process in New Zealand, don’t fret. Here’s a quick guide on applying for scholarships in New Zealand:

General Application Process

Every organization that grants scholarships has specific eligibility criteria and requirements. While not every scholarship application is the same, it’s safe to assume that each would be competitive. 

To apply for scholarships, you need ample time to research and evaluate your options. 

Generally, here are the steps in applying for a scholarship:

1. Check Eligibility Requirements

Most scholarships stipulate the terms, criteria, and requirements to apply on their websites. A key thing to remember about these requirements is that they’re non-negotiable. Whatever is required cannot be supplied with an alternative document unless stated. 

Following through with the requirements can be confusing, especially involving the New Zealand equivalent of qualifications. Contact the organization or their representative to clarify your eligibility. 

2. Research and Collect Options

It’s always best to apply for scholarships early. This gives you enough time to collect information and weigh your options. 

If you’re planning to get more than one scholarship, apply for them simultaneously. Waiting to be granted with one before applying for the next wastes valuable time.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Ensuring that you have the correct and complete set of documents will make your application easier. Document requirements vary depending on the scholarship. These typically include proof of financial need, academic qualifications, and identification documents.

Some scholarships also require certified copies of academic documents. Justices of Peace and lawyers are authorized to certify academic documents.  

4. Re-Check Your Application

Don’t make the mistake of sending in your application without proofreading and checking. Some scholarships ask for essays as part of the evaluation. Read through it multiple times until you’re satisfied.

It’s also great to ask your friends to proofread your essays. This ensures that your paper is totally error-free before submission. 

5. Wait for the Result

It takes a while for scholarship providers to assess every application they receive. The waiting period normally ranges from weeks to months. Unwavering patience is definitely needed during this time.

If your application was denied, inquire if you are allowed to re-apply for the same scholarship. You can also check out other scholarship options where you have better chances. 

If approved, you’ll be immediately notified and will receive further instructions from the providers. You can still apply for more scholarships as needed.

Scholarships are a great way to fund your education as an international student in New Zealand. For more tips on financial aid options in New Zealand, read our articles here at MSM Unify. 

You May also Like

New Zealand Unis Positive About International Students’ Return in 2022

Changes in Int’l Border Restrictions Ease Travel to New Zealand

April Reopening of New Zealand Borders Worries Int’l Education Stakeholders

What a Typical Student Life Looks Like in New Zealand