The New Zealand Excellence Awards, a special scholarship program created for Indian students, offers qualifying candidates a chance to fulfil their dreams in the 2023-2024 academic year. These scholarships are exclusively designed for Indian students who aspire to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in New Zealand and are a joint initiative of Education New Zealand and New Zealand’s eight universities.

Interested candidates' application deadline is October 15, 2023, with studies commencing in 2024. There are 29 scholarships and New Zealand Excellence awards for Indian student winners ranging from NZD 10,000 to NZD 20,000 per student.

This scholarship provides a golden opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the beauty of New Zealand while receiving a world-class education. Apply now by visiting the official website — studywithnewzealand.govt.nz.

What is the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) Award?

The New Zealand Excellence Awards for Indian students is a collaborative effort between Education New Zealand and the top eight universities in New Zealand, which are globally recognized for their excellence. According to the QS World Rankings 2024, all these universities are ranked in the top 3% worldwide.

The NZEA 2023-24 awards offer an overall package worth NZ$ 320,000, providing eligible Indian students with the chance to pursue their studies at renowned universities in New Zealand and immerse themselves in a vibrant and inclusive multicultural community.

Why Apply to New Zealand Universities?

• It is the first country that has adopted a code of practice for the care of international students.
• Quality of education is excellent at New Zealand universities, and the qualifications are recognised and globally respected. 
• Admission requirements are simple.
• Flexible degrees with dual specialisations are available.

New Zealand Excellence Awards For Indian Students Eligibility

Candidates must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the New Zealand Excellence Awards:

• Applicants should be 18 years of age or older at the time of application. 
• Aspirants must have Indian citizenship.
• Applicant must be in India at the time of application.
• Students must meet Immigration New Zealand’s requirements for a student visa.
• Hold an unconditional offer for at least one of the NZEA-eligible courses.

According to the official statement, "The purpose of these awards is to motivate high calibre students from India to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees at prestigious universities in New Zealand. These universities have all been ranked among the top 500 in the 2023 QS World Rankings," 

Ben Burrowes, the Asia regional director of Education New Zealand, says, “New Zealand Excellence Awards have assisted more than 200 Indian students since its inception in 2016. These awards have allowed these students to embark on a global education journey at one of our esteemed eight universities. These awardees' presence has greatly enhanced our campuses' educational environment, and we recognize the immense value they bring. This year, we have announced a substantial increase in funding for these awards, aiming to support the aspirations of even more deserving individuals.”      

Documents Required

To complete this application, you will need to upload the following documents:

• Proof of offer of a place at a New Zealand university
• Curriculum Vitae
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of Indian Citizenship
• You will also need to provide the names and emails of two referees to request references.

Participating Universities

The New Zealand Excellence Awards for Indian Students 2023 provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience world-class education, explore stunning landscapes, and embrace a vibrant cultural heritage. Apply now and embark on a transformative journey that will shape your future and broaden your horizons.