The University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship offers up to $10,000 towards compulsory tuition fees for new international students enrolling in undergraduate, postgraduate diploma (PGDip), or master’s programs of at least one year. It is awarded bi-annually, with up to 50 scholarships available each year.
Established in 2016, the Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship aims to attract high-caliber students to study at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland. The University is ranked 65th in the world by the QS World University Rankings 2025, making it New Zealand’s highest ranked university. Applications open on 30 January 2025 and 11 September 2025, with deadlines on 1 April 2025 and 23 October 2025, depending on the intake.
University/Institution Details:
- Name: University of Auckland
- Location: Auckland, New Zealand
- Ranking: Ranked among the top 100 universities globally
- Programs: Undergraduate degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas (PGDip), and Master’s programs
- Duration: Varies depending on the chosen program
- Number of Scholarships: Up to 50
Study Areas:
The Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship is open to all academic disciplines available at the university. Students can enroll in undergraduate, postgraduate diploma (PGDip), or master’s programs across various faculties, including:
- Arts & Humanities (Literature, History, Philosophy)
- Business & Economics (Finance, Management, Marketing)
- Engineering & Technology (Civil, Mechanical, Computer Science)
- Health & Medical Sciences (Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health)
- Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science)
- Social Sciences & Law (Sociology, Political Science, Law)
Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship Benefits:
- Up to $10,000 towards compulsory tuition fees for one year
- The scholarship will be paid as fee credit towards the first semester of the study program at the University of Auckland.
- Opportunity to study in a top-ranked university
Benefits Not Included:
- Living expenses, accommodation costs, and other non-tuition-related fees
Eligibility Criteria for Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
- Must be an international student.
- Must have received a conditional or unconditional offer for admission.
- Eligible applicants include:
- New students enrolling in an undergraduate degree, Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip), or master’s program.
- English Language Academy (ELA) students with an offer of admission.
- Summer Start International programme students with an offer of admission.
- UoA: Your Way Master of Engineering Project Management or Master of Civil Engineering students.
- Must have a Grade Point Equivalent (GPE) of at least 6.00.
- Must accept the scholarship offer by the given deadline; otherwise, the award is forfeited.
- Must enroll full-time for at least two semesters at the University of Auckland.
- Can be combined with other scholarships if approved by the university.
- The university may choose not to award the scholarship if no suitable candidates meet the criteria.
Ineligible applicants:
- Students already studying at the University of Auckland (except Summer Start International).
- Those who have studied at any tertiary level in New Zealand.
- Students enrolling in Business master’s programs at the Graduate School of Management, except for the Master of Applied Finance, Master of Business Analytics, and Master of Supply Chain Management.
- Cannot be held with:
- University of Auckland India High Achievers Scholarship
- University of Auckland ASEAN High Achievers Scholarship
- University of Auckland International Business Masters Scholarship
- To Know More, visit
Required Documents:
- Proof of citizenship or birth certificate
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language proficiency test scores
- Letter of application
- Letter of recommendation
Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship Application Process:
- Check eligibility by reading the scholarship regulations carefully.
- Click “Apply now” and complete the online application form before the deadline.
- Review the form early to check if a reference or endorsement is required.
- Complete all sections (including requests) before midnight on the deadline date.
- Avoid opening multiple scholarship applications in the same browser.
- Selection committee reviews applications, and outcomes are usually notified within eight weeks after the deadline.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Start your application early to ensure all components are completed on time.
- Highlight academic achievements, awards, community involvement, and volunteering experiences in your motivation letter.
- Demonstrate your knowledge of the University of Auckland and articulate clear reasons for choosing to study there.
- Outline your future career goals and explain how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Obtain a strong letter of recommendation that speaks to your character and qualifications.
Living Expenses in Auckland for International Students:
The estimated monthly cost of living in Auckland varies based on lifestyle and accommodation choices. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Accommodation: NZD 800 – 2,000 (shared apartment vs. university halls)
- Food & Groceries: NZD 400 – 800
- Transportation: NZD 150 – 250 (public transport, student discounts available)
- Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Phone): NZD 100 – 200
- Health Insurance: NZD 50 – 100
- Personal & Miscellaneous: NZD 200 – 500
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: NZD 1,700 – 3,800
Students should budget accordingly, as Auckland is one of the more expensive cities in New Zealand. Part-time work (up to 20 hours per week during study terms) is allowed for student visa holders to help with expenses.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Studying at the University of Auckland provides a world-class education in a diverse and vibrant environment. The scholarship alleviates a portion of the financial burden, allowing you to focus more on your studies and personal development. Additionally, living in Auckland offers a unique cultural experience in one of the world’s most livable cities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I apply for the scholarship if I haven’t received an offer of admission yet?
- No, you must have a conditional or unconditional offer of admission to be eligible.
- Is the scholarship renewable for subsequent years?
- No, the scholarship is a one-time award towards the first year of study.
- Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the University of Auckland?
- Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships if you meet the eligibility criteria for each.
- Are part-time students eligible for this scholarship?
- No, only full-time students are eligible to apply.
- Does the scholarship cover doctoral (Ph.D.) programs?
- No, the scholarship is only available for undergraduate degrees, PGDip, and master’s programs.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official scholarship page:
