🇳🇿 New Zealand Fully Funded PhD / Doctorate

New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarship

Offered by New Zealand Government (Education New Zealand)
Total reward
NZD 27,300/year + tuition
Level
PhD / Doctorate
Duration
Three years (36 months)
Location
New Zealand

About this scholarship

New Zealand universities offer doctoral scholarships to attract outstanding international research students. New Zealand’s world-class research environment in agriculture, marine science, environmental management, and biotechnology makes these scholarships particularly valuable. The stunning natural environment and high quality of life are additional attractions.

Eligibility

  • Students from any country accepted or applying for doctoral study at a New Zealand university
  • Strong master's or honors degree
  • Research proposal aligned with university research strengths
  • English proficiency required (IELTS 6.5+)

Benefits & Coverage

  • Annual stipend of NZD 27,300 (approximately NZD 525/week)
  • Tuition fees waived
  • Health and travel insurance
  • Research costs contribution

Required Documents

  • Valid passport (min 6 months validity)
  • Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates and transcripts
  • Research proposal (2-5 pages)
  • Two academic reference letters
  • English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+)
  • Updated CV/Resume
  • Statement of purpose / Motivation letter
  • Publications list (if any)

How to Apply

  • Be an international student who is not a citizen/PR of New Zealand or Australia, with a strong academic record (around GPA 3.7/4.0 or A to A+ average) and a confirmed unconditional offer of place for a full-time, on-campus PhD at a New Zealand university
  • Submit the NZIDRS application (with required supporting documents and a research proposal aligned with the selection criteria) by the annual deadline
  • Awards are made on academic excellence and the research's value to New Zealand, covering tuition, an annual stipend (about NZ$25,000), and medical insurance for three years

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