1. Program Overview

The New Zealand ASEAN Scholarship (NZAS) is a fully funded postgraduate scholarship provided by the New Zealand Government’s International Aid and Development Programme and managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

NZAS (now primarily delivered through the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships) reflects New Zealand’s strong cultural, economic, and geographic ties with Southeast Asia. The program aims to equip future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications needed to contribute to the economic, social, and political development of their home countries.

2. Eligible Countries (ASEAN)

Citizens from the following countries are eligible to apply:

• Brunei Darussalam
• Cambodia
• Indonesia
• Laos
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• Philippines
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Viet Nam

3. Levels of Study Supported

Scholarships are available for full-time postgraduate study at participating New Zealand institutions:

• 🎓 Postgraduate Certificate (6 months)
• 🎓 Postgraduate Diploma (1 year)
• 🎓 Master’s Degree (1–2 years)
• 🎓 PhD (3–4 years)

📌 Note: For Brunei and Singapore, support is generally limited to PhD programs only.

4. Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded)

The NZAS / Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship typically covers:

✅ Full tuition fees
✅ Living allowance (approximately NZ$615 per week, subject to updates)
✅ Establishment allowance upon arrival in New Zealand
✅ Medical and travel insurance
✅ Return airfare between the home country and New Zealand
✅ Research and thesis costs (for most research-based postgraduate programs)
✅ Partner work visa eligibility for the duration of the scholar’s study

5. Priority Fields of Study

Priority is given to study areas aligned with national development needs, including:

• Agriculture and Renewable Energy
• Disaster Risk Management & Environmental Studies
• Public Policy, Governance & Economic Growth
• Tourism and Education

6. Eligibility Criteria (General)

Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old at the start of the scholarship
• Be a citizen of an eligible ASEAN country and currently living in that country
• Have lived in their home country for at least two years prior to application
• Have at least two years of work experience (paid or voluntary), unless exempted by country-specific rules
• Meet academic and English language requirements for their chosen program
• Be able to meet New Zealand student visa requirements
• Not be currently serving in the military
• Not have previously had a New Zealand Government Scholarship terminated due to misconduct or poor academic performance
• Demonstrate that their proposed study will contribute to the sustainable development of their home country
• Commit to returning to their home country for a minimum of two years after completing the scholarship

7. How to Apply

1. Check Dates: Applications typically open in February and close in March/April each year for the following academic year.

2. Online Portal: Applicants from eligible Asian countries can apply online through the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships portal (https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/)

📌 Important notes:

• Some countries may close applications early due to a high volume of submissions
• Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible
• Country-specific deadlines, eligibility rules, and priority sectors may vary

👉 Always check the official Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website for the most up-to-date information.

8. Student Visa Information

⚠️ Do NOT apply for a student visa unless you have been offered and accepted a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship.

• Once accepted, scholars must apply for a student visa immediately
• Visa processing may take 2–3 months and includes medical examinations
• Failure to obtain a student visa will result in withdrawal of the scholarship

The New Zealand ASEAN Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity to pursue postgraduate study in New Zealand, develop leadership capacity, and make a meaningful contribution to your country’s development.