The University of Auckland Scholarship is one of the most sought after funding opportunities for international students planning to study in New Zealand. Offered by Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, the University of Auckland Scholarship officially known as the International Student Excellence Scholarship provides up to NZ$10,000 toward compulsory tuition fees for new international students entering undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, or taught master’s programmes. It was established in 2016 to attract high calibre students from around the world to one of New Zealand’s top ranked universities.
For the 2027 intake, the University of Auckland Scholarship is awarded twice a year, giving applicants flexibility depending on when they plan to begin their studies. Selection is based on academic merit, the strength of the application letter, and a referee’s endorsement, with the university also considering how an applicant’s chosen programme aligns with its strategic goals. Because the scholarship only reduces tuition costs and does not cover living expenses, insurance, or travel, students are encouraged to plan a full study budget alongside their application.
University of Auckland Scholarship Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship |
| Host Institution | University of Auckland, New Zealand |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s (taught) |
| Scholarship Value | Up to NZ$10,000 toward tuition fees |
| Number of Awards | Up to 50 |
| Funding Type | Partial (tuition contribution only) |
| Eligible Applicants | New international students |
| Application Frequency | Twice a year |
| Deadline (2027 intake) | 21 October 2026 |
Eligibility for University of Auckland Scholarship
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Auckland Scholarship, applicants must be new international students enrolling full time in an eligible undergraduate degree, postgraduate diploma, or master’s programme of 120 points or more. Students who have already started study at the University of Auckland, apart from those in the Summer Start International programme, are not eligible. Applicants must also hold an unconditional offer of admission, or a conditional offer if enrolled through the English Language Academy.
Age and Academic Requirements
There is no strict age limit for the University of Auckland Scholarship, but applicants must meet the university’s standard entry requirements for their chosen programme. A grade point equivalent of at least 6.00 is generally required for scholarship consideration, and applications are assessed on overall academic merit rather than age alone.
Benefits of University of Auckland Scholarship
Financial Benefits
The University of Auckland Scholarship provides up to NZ$10,000 toward compulsory tuition fees, directly reducing the overall cost of studying at the university. This financial contribution can ease the burden of one of the largest expenses international students face when planning to study in New Zealand.
Academic and Personal Benefits
Beyond the financial support, recipients of the University of Auckland Scholarship gain recognition as high-achieving students at a globally ranked institution. The scholarship can strengthen a student’s academic profile, open doors to networking with faculty and peers, and provide added motivation to maintain strong academic performance throughout their degree.
Documents Required for University of Auckland Scholarship
- Confirmation of unconditional (or conditional, for ELA students) admission offer
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- A personal statement or letter of application
- A letter of endorsement from a referee
- Passport or identification document
- Proof of English language proficiency, where applicable
How to Apply for University of Auckland Scholarship
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, or master’s programme at the University of Auckland.
- Wait to receive an unconditional (or conditional, for ELA pathway) offer of admission.
- Access the University of Auckland Scholarship application form once it opens on the official scholarships and awards page.
- Complete the application, including your personal statement and referee details.
- Upload all required documents, including transcripts and proof of admission.
- Submit the application before the closing date and monitor your student email for updates.
Application Tips for University of Auckland Scholarship
Apply for admission well before the scholarship deadline, since the University of Auckland Scholarship form typically closes weeks ahead of the general admissions deadline. Write a clear, well-structured personal statement that highlights academic achievements and career goals, and choose a referee who can speak directly to your academic ability. Read the official scholarship regulations carefully before submitting your application.
Deadline for the University of Auckland Scholarship
Applications for the University of Auckland Scholarship are accepted twice a year. For students targeting the Semester One 2027 intake, the application round opens on 9 September 2026 and closes on 21 October 2026. For the Semester Two 2027 intake, the round opens on 18 February 2027 and closes on 1 April 2027. Applicants are strongly advised to set an internal deadline at least one week before the official closing date to allow time for document preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the University of Auckland Scholarship open to all international students?
Yes, it is open to new international students enrolling in eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.
How much funding does the University of Auckland Scholarship provide?
This Scholarship offers up to NZ$10,000 toward compulsory tuition fees.
When does the University of Auckland Scholarship open for 2027?
This Scholarship for the Semester One 2027 intake opens on 9 September 2026.
Can current University of Auckland students apply for this scholarship?
No, this Scholarship is reserved for new international students, not continuing ones.
Does the University of Auckland Scholarship cover living costs?
No, this Scholarship only contributes toward tuition fees, not accommodation or living expenses.
How many awards does the University of Auckland Scholarship offer each round?
This Scholarship offers up to 50 awards per application round.
What GPA is needed for the University of Auckland Scholarship?
Applicants generally need a grade point equivalent of at least 6.00 for the University of Auckland Scholarship.
