New Zealand Development Scholarships (NZDS) give candidates from selected developing countries an opportunity to gain knowledge and skills through study in specific subject areas which will assist in the development of their home country.
NZDS are funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme, the New Zealand Government’s overseas aid and development programme. They are managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
The purpose of New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships is set out in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (external link), with the following key principles to:
Promote mutual cooperation and share educational experience among all Commonwealth countries
Be available across the Commonwealth and recognize
Promote the highest level of intellectual achievement.
Location of Study: New Zealand
Scholarship Type: Full scholarship
Faculty of study: All faculties
Level of Study: postgraduate
Scholarship Value:
Eligibility
The following Commonwealth countries are eligible to apply:
| Region | Eligible countries |
| Africa | Botswana, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia. |
| Caribbean | Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines. |
| Asia (other) | Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, |
| Pacific | Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu. |
Qualifications
New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships are available for the following postgraduate qualifications:
- Master’s Degree (1 – 2 years)
- PhD (up to 3.5 years)
How to Apply
The application process for a New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarship is different to other New Zealand Scholarships. Please read the below section carefully before you submit an application.
Step 1: Confirm suitability
- Check that meet all eligibility criteria (external link)
- Read about our scholarships – why New Zealand offers scholarships and what you can expect
- Read your country page and ensure your application is aligned with the priority sectors for your country- your choice of study must align to one of these sectors in order to be eligible.
- Understand our selection preferences for scholars
- Understand what we expect from you if you win a scholarship – what you will need to do during your study and after you graduate.
- Do your research about which institution and qualification is right for you and the development needs of your country. For more information, see Where you can study and What you can study, as well as Study in New Zealand (external link). (external link)
- Those who wish to pursue doctoral studies are also recommended to start contacting and securing a potential supervisor for your PhD. You must have a Letter of Support from a supervisor should you be shortlisted.
Step 2: Complete your application form
Download and print the Application Form
Additional copies may also be available at your local nominating agency or at selected New Zealand High Commissions.
Refer to the Application Guidance page on this website for essential information and helpful tips.
Complete all sections of the application form, and make sure you have attached the additional documents required.
Deadline
30 March, 2017