For ambitious students around the globe, securing funding is one of the biggest hurdles in pursuing higher education abroad. The University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students aim to ease that burden by offering a wide array of scholarships and financial support to attract and empower talented individuals from all over the world. As one of New Zealand’s flagship universities, the University of Auckland has developed a robust scholarship program to make study more accessible and foster academic excellence. In this article, we will explore the types, eligibility, benefits, and strategies for applying to the University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students.
What Are the Auckland University Scholarships?
The University of Auckland is known to offer over 190 scholarships specifically for international students. These University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students encompass undergraduate, postgraduate taught and research, and doctoral levels. The total amount awarded in 2025 includes NZD 15 million designated for international students alone. These scholarships aim not only to lessen tuition costs, but also to support living expenses, accommodation, and sometimes additional mentorship or research opportunities. Many of these University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students are merit-based, while others are targeted at specific countries, faculties, or disciplines.
What Are the Types of Auckland University Scholarships?
Here are some of the major scholarship categories available under University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students:
1. Undergraduate Scholarships
These are designed for international students seeking to begin their bachelor’s degree. Examples include:
- University of Auckland International School Leaver Scholarship
Up to NZD 20,000 toward compulsory tuition fees for international students who have attended secondary school in New Zealand and are enrolling in their first undergraduate year. - University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
Up to NZD 10,000 toward tuition fees for new international students enrolling in undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, or master’s programs. - University of Auckland India High Achievers Scholarship
Up to NZD 20,000 for new international students from India enrolling full-time in undergraduate, PGDip, or master’s courses. - University of Auckland ASEAN High Achievers Scholarship
Up to NZD 10,000 toward tuition for international students from ASEAN countries. - Faculty or subject specific scholarships
For example, the Dean’s Asia Scholarship in the Business Faculty or engineering-specific awards. - Summer Research Scholarships
Available to international students who have completed certain undergraduate years, facilitating research experience.
2. Postgraduate and Master’s Level Scholarships
International students pursuing taught postgraduate (Master’s) or postgraduate diploma programs can also benefit from University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students:
•Many of the same scholarships listed above such as International Student Excellence Scholarship, India High Achievers, ASEAN High Achievers are open to master’s-level students as well.
•International Business Masters Scholarship
Up to NZD 32,000 tuition credit for international students entering a master’s in the Business School.
•School of Medical Sciences International Masters Scholarship
Tuition credit up to NZD 20,000 per annum for eligible international medical science master’s students.
3. Doctoral and Research Scholarships
At the doctoral level, University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students are especially significant:
•University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship
Covers up to 36 months of full-time study, providing a tax free stipend for example, NZD 34,569 per annum in 2025 and international student tuition fees if eligible under domestic fees policy, plus health insurance.
•Eligibility is considered at the time of application to the doctoral program; applicants do not usually submit a separate scholarship application, as many departments automatically consider suitable candidates.
•External collaboration scholarships
For example, the China Scholarship Council (CSC) scheme in partnership with the University offers opportunities for Chinese doctoral students.
What Are the Eligibility & Key Requirements?
To qualify for University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students, candidates generally need to meet several criteria:
1.Be a new international student (not already enrolled at University of Auckland).
2.Have received a conditional or unconditional offer of admission, or be enrolled in the English Language Academy (ELA) or Summer Start International program.
3.Enrol full time in a qualifying undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, or master’s program.
4. Academic merit is a key factor, many scholarships require a high Grade Point Equivalent (GPE) or equivalent academic record.
5.Submit supporting documents: motivation letter, referee endorsements, evidence of achievements, and where relevant, demonstration of leadership, community involvement, or research potential.
6.Some scholarships are country-specific such as for ASEAN students and have additional eligibility criteria.
Because University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students are highly competitive, meeting minimum eligibility does not guarantee an award, selection typically depends on the overall strength of the application.
What Are the Benefits & Coverage?
What kinds of support do University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students provide?
- Tuition fee credits
Most scholarships reduce or offset all or part of your compulsory tuition fees. - Living stipend / allowance
Particularly at the doctoral level, the scholarship provides a living allowance such as NZD 34,569 per year in 2025 to help meet day to day expenses. - Health insurance
Some doctoral scholarships include coverage for mandatory student health insurance. - One-year duration for many scholarships
Many of the taught study scholarships are only valid for one year; renewal is not guaranteed. - Mentorship and networking opportunities
Some scholarships may offer extra support beyond finances, such as pairing with faculty or access to research groups.
What Are the Application Strategy & Tips?
To increase your chances of obtaining University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students, consider the following strategic tips:
1.Start early
Scholarship deadlines often close well before course enrolment, so begin preparing your application at least several months ahead.
2.Secure your admission offer first
Often scholarships require you to already hold a conditional or unconditional offer to the University.
3.Prepare a compelling application
Focus on academic excellence, leadership, community engagement, and your vision for how studying at Auckland will advance your goals.
4.Apply to multiple scholarships
You can submit a single application and be considered for several scholarships, per the rules.
5.Understand renewal conditions
Some scholarships cannot be renewed; plan finances accordingly.
6.Engage faculty or prospective supervisors (especially for postgraduate or doctoral applications)
Strong endorsements or alignment with research interests can boost your case.
7.Check country specific and external funding options
Sometimes your government or external organizations may have scholarships you can combine with those from the University.
8.Follow scholarship rules carefully
Some scholarships limit holding multiple awards or have conditions about the length of study, performance, or continuation.
What Are the Challenges & Considerations?
While the University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students offer excellent opportunities, there are some challenges and caveats to be aware of:
- Highly competitive
Because many international applicants compete for a limited number, even excellent candidates may not receive an award. - Duration limitations
Many scholarships are for one year only; continuation or renewal may depend on achieving high marks or reapplying. - Partial coverage
Some awards cover only tuition fees and do not include living costs, travel, or other expenses. - Work restrictions
As an international student, you may be limited in how many hours per week you can work, so you can’t always rely on part-time work to bridge funding gaps. - Eligibility constraints
Some scholarships exclude students who have studied previously in New Zealand, or those pursuing specific degrees.
Thus, the University of Auckland Scholarships of International Students are a powerful mechanism for opening doors to world class education in New Zealand. They support students at every stage, from undergraduate to doctorate and aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and research potential. If you are an international student dreaming of studying at Auckland, these scholarships could make a critical difference in your journey. Prepare early, present your best credentials, and apply strategically to increase your chances.
Other than University of Auckland Scholarships, you can also explore Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
FAQs
1. Who is eligible to apply for Auckland University Scholarships?
Eligibility generally requires that you be a new international student with a conditional or unconditional offer at the University of Auckland, enroll full time in an eligible program (undergraduate, PGDip, master’s, or doctoral), and meet academic merit criteria. Some scholarships also have country specific or subject specific eligibility.
2. Do University of Auckland Scholarships cover living costs?
It depends. Many scholarships cover only tuition fee credits, especially for taught programs. However, doctoral-level scholarships typically include a living stipend, health insurance, and tuition. Always check the specific terms of each scholarship.
3. Can I renew my Scholarship after the first year?
Some scholarships might be renewed based on performance or reapplication, but many are valid for only one year and do not guarantee continuation. Be sure to check renewal conditions in the scholarship regulations.