If you’re a high-achieving student planning to begin your undergraduate studies in New Zealand, the Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship is a golden opportunity. This fully funded masters scholarship is designed to support students with excellent academic records, financial need, or extraordinary personal circumstances. Offered by the University of Waikato, this scholarship empowers students to pursue higher education without financial stress.
About Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship
The Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship, which translates to “for the people,” reflects the University of Waikato’s commitment to accessibility and excellence in education. Situated in New Zealand, this scholarship is available for students enrolling in undergraduate programs in 2026. While it’s specifically for domestic students, its emphasis on academic merit and personal resilience makes it a standout choice among fully funded masters scholarships.
The University of Waikato is renowned for its inclusive learning environment and support for indigenous studies, further cementing the scholarship’s significance in nurturing talent across diverse backgrounds.
Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship Summary
| Key Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Host Country | New Zealand |
| Host Institution | University of Waikato |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate (for school leavers) |
| Eligible Degrees / Fields | All subject areas including Arts, Law, Health, Engineering, and more |
| Scholarship Coverage | NZD $5,000 |
| IELTS Requirement | Not required for domestic students |
| Eligible Regions / Nationalities | Domestic students with NZ fee status |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2025 |
| Destination Country | New Zealand |
| Category | Fully Funded, Merit-Based, Needs-Based |
Benefits of the Ko Te Tangata Scholarship
Recipients of the Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship receive both financial assistance and institutional support, making it one of the best options for school leavers in New Zealand.
Financial Benefits:
- NZD $5,000 contribution towards tuition fees or course-related costs
Non-Financial Benefits:
- Access to student support services
- Priority for academic mentoring
- Recognition and validation of academic and personal achievements
- Opportunity to build a strong academic foundation at a top-tier university
Eligibility Criteria for Ko Te Tangata Scholarship
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a school leaver (students completing secondary school in 2024 or taking a gap year in 2025)
- Must have domestic fee status
- Must plan to enrol full-time (120 points) in an undergraduate program in 2026
- Must have achieved Merit or Excellence endorsement in NCEA Level 2 (or equivalent)
- May be experiencing financial hardship or personal challenges
- Must not have previously enrolled in an undergraduate degree at any tertiary institution
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Required Documents for Ko Te Tangata Application
To complete your application, prepare the following documents:
- Verified academic transcripts (NCEA Level 2 or equivalent)
- Proof of domestic fee status
- Personal statement (detailing achievements, financial needs, or special circumstances)
- Recommendation letter (from school principal or teacher) – optional but recommended
- Any supporting documents for hardship claims (scanned and certified)
Application Timeline for Ko Te Tangata Scholarship
- Opening Date: Currently open
- Closing Date: 31 August 2025
- Application Basis: Strict deadline (no rolling admissions)
How to Apply for the Ko Te Tangata Scholarship
Follow these steps to submit a complete and competitive application:
- Create a MyWaikato Account
- Visit the University of Waikato website and create a MyWaikato student account.
- Apply to Enrol
- Submit an application for an undergraduate program starting in 2026.
- Access the Scholarships Tab
- After enrolment application, log in to MyWaikato and navigate to the ‘Scholarships’ tab.
- Select the Ko Te Tangata Scholarship
- Choose the Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship from the list.
- Submit Application with Required Documents
- Upload your documents and double-check the information before submission.
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Don’t wait till the last day
- Tailor your personal statement to reflect merit and need
- Double-check all attachments for completeness and certification
FAQs about Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship
Who is eligible?
School leavers with domestic fee status, planning to start an undergraduate degree at the University of Waikato in 2026.
Is IELTS required?
No, it is not required for domestic students.
Can I apply from [Country]?
Only students with New Zealand domestic fee status are eligible.
When will results be announced?
Shortlisted applicants are generally notified within a few weeks after the closing date.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, you may apply for other scholarships offered by the University of Waikato concurrently.
Final Thoughts on the Ko Te Tangata Scholarship
The Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship is a stepping stone to academic success, offering a generous financial grant and institutional support. Whether you’re a top achiever or someone who has overcome challenges, this scholarship recognises potential beyond grades.
Don’t miss this opportunity to begin your journey at one of New Zealand’s premier universities. Apply now and take the first step toward your dream career.
📌Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in New Zealand.
Application Deadline: 31st August 2025
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