The Tongarewa Scholarship, offered by Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand, provides partial financial support to exceptional international students. The Tongarewa International Scholarships support outstanding new international students entering their first year of undergraduate or postgraduate studies. These partial scholarships, awarded based on academic excellence, help cover tuition fees for one year.
The Tongarewa Scholarship values either $2,500; $5,000; $7,500 or $10,000, applied directly toward tuition fees for one academic year. They are competitive and apply to studies beginning in the year following the application. The application deadline for Trimester 2 is May 1, 2025.
University/Institution Details:
- Name: Victoria University of Wellington
- Location: Wellington, New Zealand
- Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide
- Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees
- Duration: Varies depending on the chosen program
Study Areas:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Science and Engineering
- Business and Management
- Law and Government
- Health and Environmental Studies
- Architecture and Design
Tongarewa Scholarship Benefits:
- Partial tuition fee coverage
- Students will receive a stipend of $2,500, $5,000, $7,500, or $10,000.
- The university will credit the scholarship amount to their accounts approximately two weeks after the program begins.
- Opportunity to study in an internationally known institution.
Benefits Not Included:
- The scholarship does not cover living expenses, accommodation costs, or other ancillary fees.
Eligibility Criteria for Tongarewa Scholarship:
Applicants must:
- Be international students paying full international fees.
- Hold a conditional or unconditional offer for an eligible program at Victoria University of Wellington.
- Be new students at the university.
- Be selected by the scholarship award panel.
Not eligible if they:
- Completed secondary education in New Zealand.
- Finished the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or Foundation Studies program at the university.
- Are Study Abroad, Exchange, or Twinning students from partner universities.
- Are returning students in their second trimester or year of the same degree program.
Additional Information:
- Scholarship amounts: NZD 2,500, 5,000, 7,500, or 10,000
- The university credits funds two weeks after the program starts (after the withdrawal period).
- Students must pay the full tuition fees upfront, as the university does not deduct the scholarship beforehand.
- The selection committee makes final decisions, and applicants cannot appeal them.
Regulations & Conditions:
- Applicants must submit all applications and documents by 4:30 PM on the closing date; the university will not accept late or incomplete submissions.
- Eligibility: Recipients must be fully enrolled in a full-time, full-year programme (at least 45 points)
- Deferral: Possible only within the same calendar year (not beyond)
- Combining Scholarships: Can be held with other awards
- Withdrawal & Progress:
- If a student withdraws or fails to make progress, they may need to repay part of the scholarship
- Must inform the Scholarships Office if planning to withdraw
- International Status:
- If a recipient’s fee status changes to domestic, the scholarship will be withdrawn
- Ambassador Role:
- Recipients may be asked to represent the university at events or marketing activities
- Special Cases:
- The university may adjust terms in special circumstances or to prevent hardship
Required Documents:
- Personal statement (up to 500 words) explaining:
- Why you want to study at Victoria University of Wellington
- Your academic goals and why you deserve the scholarship
- Any leadership roles and community involvement
- Offer of Place or Conditional Offer of Place (must be uploaded, or the application will be rejected)
- Full academic transcripts and other relevant educational documents.
- Offer of place from Victoria University of Wellington (conditional or unconditional)
Tongarewa Scholarship Application Process:
- Complete the online scholarship application.
- Ensure all required documents are submitted by the application deadline.
- A selection panel reviews applications and awards scholarships based on academic excellence and the quality of the personal statement.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Highlight academic achievements and leadership experiences in your personal statement.
- Clearly articulate your reasons for choosing Victoria University of Wellington and your future aspirations.
- Submit all required documents before the application deadline.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students:
- Accommodation: NZD 800–1,500
- Food: NZD 300–600
- Transport: NZD 100–200
- Utilities & Internet: NZD 100–200
- Personal & Entertainment: NZD 200–400
- Total Estimated Cost: NZD 1,500–2,000 per month
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The Tongarewa Scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also offers the chance to study at a globally recognized institution known for its research excellence and vibrant campus life. Living in Wellington, the capital city, enriches the student experience with its cultural diversity and dynamic environment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I apply for the Tongarewa Scholarship if I have already started my degree at Victoria University of Wellington? No, the scholarship is only available to students entering their first year of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
- Is the Tongarewa Scholarship renewable for subsequent years? No, the scholarship is a one-time award applicable only for the first year of study.
- Can I apply for the scholarship if I have a conditional offer from the university? Yes, applicants with either conditional or unconditional offers are eligible to apply.
- Are there other scholarships available for international students at Victoria University of Wellington? Yes, the university offers various scholarships for international students. Details can be found on their scholarships page.
- How will I know if my scholarship application is successful? Successful applicants will be notified by the university after the selection process is completed.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official scholarship page:
