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Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Programme

Fully funded study and the chance to help your country in meaningful ways.

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About the scholarship

With a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, you can study programmes which will best benefit the needs of your home country. You’ll have ongoing support from a dedicated team, ensuring you’re comfortable and able to fully embrace your international studies.

The scholarships are funded through the New Zealand Aid Programme and administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) with the goal of building prosperity, security, and sustainable growth in partner countries.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website

As a Manaaki scholar, you are not just a student; you are a future leader. You'll gain a world-class education, lifelong friendships, and vital skills to strengthen your career. 

Students from eligible partner countries across the Asia and Pacific regions are welcome to apply.

Please check whether your country is listed as an eligible partner country on the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website:

Check eligible countries

Cherrisse Adlawan | Manaaki Scholar

Why Choose Lincoln University? 

Lincoln University is New Zealand’s only specialist land-based university. We’re experts in agriculture, food security, climate resilience and environmental management. We’re in a unique position to deliver on the goals of the Manaaki programme.

Our education is grounded in practicality. You’ll gain hands-on experience and learn from leading academics in the field.

Our campus is located in the growing town of Lincoln, just 20 minutes away from Christchurch. We have a friendly, tight-knit community of students regularly hosting clubs and events. 

What does the scholarship cover? 

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers so you can focus on your academic success. 

Benefit Value and details
Full tuition fees 100% covered, including all student services and laboratory fees.
Living allowance Approx. NZ$615 per week (paid fortnightly). This is calculated to cover the basic living expenses for one person*.
Establishment allowance NZ$3,000 (one-off payment). Paid upon arrival to help you set up (e.g. buying winter clothes, textbooks, and accommodation bonds).
Travel and insurance  Includes return economy airfares at the start and end of your scholarship, plus comprehensive medical and travel insurance (StudentSafe). 
Research costs  Postgraduate students can apply for additional funding to cover thesis research costs (e.g., field trips, data collection). 
Reintegration allowance  NZ$1,000 paid upon your return home to assist with your transition back into the workforce. 
Tutoring support Access to up to NZ$1,000 for private tutoring if you need extra academic help. 

*The Living Allowance is designed to support the scholar only. The scholarship does not provide additional funding for spouses or children. If you intend to bring family, you must provide evidence of independent financial means to support them.

Recommended subjects (priority sectors) 

To be eligible for a Manaaki Scholarship, your choice of study must align with a priority sector identified for your country. Each partner country has different subject and sector priorities, so it's important to check the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website for the most up-to-date, country-specific requirements.

Lincoln University offers specific degrees that directly match these priorities.

1. Climate Change & Resilience

Food Security and Agriculture

Climate Change and the Environment

Disaster Management

2. Good Governance

Governance

Accommodation

We highly recommend Manaaki scholars live on campus to fully experience the community.

Accommodation at Lincoln is significantly more affordable than in larger cities.

  • Catered Halls (Meals included): No cooking or bills to worry about.
  • Self-Catered Flats: Cook your own meals and live independently. 

Please visit Accommodation Options for more information

International support

Postgraduate research support
If you’re pursuing a Research Master’s or PhD, our Postgraduate Research Office is here to help you thrive. Led by the Director of Postgraduate Research, the team ensures you’re supported throughout your academic journey, from enrolment to graduation. They’ll guide your progress and help you make the most of your research opportunities.

Professional development
We offer a range of activities to help you grow as a researcher and future leader. You’ll be invited to postgraduate conferences, academic writing workshops, and career development seminars. These are designed to build your confidence in presenting research, publishing papers, and preparing for your next steps after study.

International research networks
These networks provide opportunities for collaboration, shared learning, and global impact.

  • Euroleague for Life Sciences (ELLS)

  • Global Challenges University Alliance (GCUA 2030)

Interdisciplinary research opportunities and designated support staff
Lincoln’s research environment encourages interdisciplinary work, bringing together knowledge from multiple fields to solve real-world problems. You’ll also have access to dedicated support staff who can guide you through your research and academic development.

Find out more about support for international students

Am I eligble?

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are available to students in more than 80 partner countries around the world. New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) administers the Scholarship and gives priority to students who study in sectors or subjects that best meet their country’s economic and social needs.

You may be eligible to apply if:

  • your country is eligible
  • your chosen study path matches the recommended subjects for your country
  • you meet the Scholarship's citizenship and work experience criteria.

Visit the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website to check if your country is eligible for a New Zealand Scholarship:

Check if your country is an eligible partner country – Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website

How to apply

Applying for a Manaaki Scholarship is different from a standard university application. You must apply for the scholarship first.

Step 1: The scholarship application (February – March) 

  • Where: Apply online via the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship website 
  • When: Applications typically open in February and close in March for study beginning the following year. (e.g., Apply Feb 2026 to start Feb 2027).
  • What to do: You must nominate Lincoln University as your preferred institution on this application. You do not need an Offer of Place from us at this stage.
  • Tip: Check the "Eligibility Checker" on the government website before you start. 

Step 2: The university application (August – October) 

  • Notification: If you are shortlisted, MFAT will notify you that you are a "Preferred Candidate."
  • Action: MFAT will invite you to apply formally to Lincoln University.
  • Our Support: The Lincoln International Office will fast-track your application. You will need to provide your academic transcripts and English language results.
  • Final Step: Once we issue your Offer of Place, you submit this to MFAT to sign your scholarship contract. 

For information about the application process, visit the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship website:

Application process: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships 

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International Scholarships