If you want to study in one of the world’s most beautiful countries, then the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) might be the way to study in New Zealand. This scholarship is only for Indian students, it offers a fair opportunity to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degree at top-ranked New Zealand universities.
This scholarship is one of the most prestigious and targeted scholarships for Indian nationals. Whether you want to study science, business, creative arts, or environmental studies, this scholarship opens doors to world-class education. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the New Zealand Excellence Awards 2025.
About New Zealand Excellence Awards 2025
New Zealand Excellence Awards started in 2025, by New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon to promote academic and cultural exchanges between India and New Zealand. It offers funds for the Indian students to study at the top University of New Zealand, ranging from NZD 5,000 to NZD 20,000.
New Zealand Excellence Awards at Glance
| Feature | Details |
| 🎯 Scholarship Name | New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) |
| 🌍 Offered By | Education New Zealand (ENZ) + 8 NZ Universities |
| 🇮🇳 Eligibility | Exclusively for Indian citizens |
| 🎓 Level of Study | Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Taught Masters) |
| 💰 Scholarship Amount | NZD 5,000 to NZD 20,000 |
| 📚 Eligible Fields | STEM, Business, Creative Arts, Social Sciences, Environmental Studies |
| 🏫 Participating Universities | 8 Leading NZ Universities (listed below) |
| 📅 Application Deadline | 11:59 PM IST on April 30, 2025. |
| 📝 Application Requirement | University offer letter, SOP, academic transcripts, resume. |
| 🌐 Official Website | studywithnewzealand(govt)nz |
New Zealand Excellence Awards Requirements
- Be at least 18 years at the time of application.
- Hold current citizenship of India (and not be a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia).
- Must meet Immigration New Zealand’s requirements for a student visa.
- Applicants should be residing in India at the time of application.
- Hold an unconditional offer for one of the NZEA eligible courses.
Top Participating Institutions and No of Scholarships Offered
- AUT University: UG – 1, PG – 2
- The University of Auckland: UG – 2, PG – 2
- Lincoln University: UG – 1, PG – 4
- Massey University: UG – 2, PG – 2
- University of Canterbury: UG – 1, PG – 1
- University of Otago: PG – 4
- The University of Waikato Victoria: UG – 1, PG – 2
- University of Wellington: UG – 2, PG – 2
*UG – Under Graduate, *PG – Post Graduate
Why New Zealand Universities
- New Zealand was the first country in the world to adopt a code of practice for the care of international students.
- Very high standard of teaching and learning with a robust and multi-layered quality assurance system
- New Zealand qualifications are recognised and globally respected.
- Opportunities for internships and work experience
- Simple admission requirements only dependent on academics and English language
- Flexible degrees with dual specialization
- Work 20 hours a week during semester
- Three year post study work visa bachelor’s degree onwards
- Minimum wage rate $23.50 per hour (1 April 2025 onwards)
- Unbeatable lifestyle & explore outdoors
- Recreational facilities & varied sports
More: Beinecke Scholarship 2025
Required Documents
- Evidence of offer of place at a New Zealand university
- Curriculum Vitae
- All academic transcripts
- Proof of Indian Citizenship and every other country for which you hold citizenship
- You will also need to provide the names and emails of two referees to request references.
Application Process of New Zealand Excellence Awards 2025
Step 1: Find the programme, course and institution that’s right for you here.
Step 2: Submit your application directly to the university or our agent offices.
Step 3: Apply for student visa.
Step 4: Decide where you would like to live and the type of accommodation that’s right for you
General Timeline – New Zealand Excellence Awards
The application deadline for the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) 2025 is 11:59 PM IST on April 30, 2025. This timing aligns with 6:29 AM NZT on May 1, 2025, as per the official scholarship portal.
FAQ
1. Can I apply for the NZEA without an offer letter from a New Zealand university?
No. You must have an unconditional or conditional offer letter from one of the participating New Zealand universities before applying for the NZEA scholarship.
2. What are the chances of getting selected for the NZEA?
Selection is highly competitive and based on academic excellence, a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP), and your potential to contribute to New Zealand–India relations. Only a limited number of awards are granted each year.
3. Is the NZEA scholarship renewable for multiple years?
No. The NZEA is a one-time scholarship awarded for the first year of study only. However, students may apply for additional scholarships offered by their respective universities in subsequent years.
4. Can I apply if I’m already studying in New Zealand?
No. The scholarship is intended for new Indian students beginning their studies in New Zealand. Current students enrolled in NZ universities are not eligible.
Conclusion
The New Zealand Excellence Awards is a golden opportunity for Indian students to pursue quality education in eight top-ranked universities in New Zealand. If you’re an aspiring student with big dreams and a strong academic background, don’t miss this chance. Apply before April 30, 2025, and make your New Zealand dream a reality.
