The Tongarewa Scholarship celebrates Victoria University of Wellington’s commitment to international students. It offers partial tuition fee support for outstanding international candidates enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate programs. The Tongarewa International Scholarships reflect Victoria University of Wellington’s support for international students by offering partial tuition fee support for one year. These scholarships are available to new international students beginning their first year of undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
Available for the academic year 2025–26, this merit-based scholarship is highly competitive and aims to welcome global talent to New Zealand. Awarded on the basis of academic excellence, the Tongarewa Scholarship are competitive and apply to the academic year following the application, with funds credited directly to tuition fees.
Application Deadlines:
- Trimester 3, 2025: 1 August 2025
- Trimester 2, 2025: 1 May 2025
- Trimester 1, 2026: 30 November 2025
University/Institution Overview
- Name: Victoria University of Wellington
- Location: Wellington, New Zealand
- QS World Ranking: #241 (2025 QS Rankings)
- Scholarship level: Master’s Research; Master’s by coursework; All postgraduate; First year students; School leaver
- Tenure: One year
- Value: up to $10,000
Study Areas
The university offers a broad range of disciplines, including:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Science and Engineering
- Business and Government
- Law
- Education
- Architecture and Design Innovation
Purpose
- Recognizes and supports new international students.
- Partial tuition fee scholarship for first-year undergraduate or postgraduate study.
- Awarded based on academic excellence and personal statement.
Tongarewa Scholarship Benefits
- Partial tuition fee waiver of NZD $2,500, $5,000, $7,500, or $10,000.
- Credited to tuition account 2 weeks after the start of the program.
- Cannot be deducted upfront from tuition; fees must be paid in full first.
- Cannot be appealed once awarded.
- Access to a vibrant international student network
- Opportunity to join extracurricular activities and leadership programs
Benefits Not Included
- Full tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Travel costs
- Insurance
- Accommodation
Charles Darwin University RTP Scholarship 2026 in Australia
Eligibilities for Tongarewa Scholarship
Applicants must be:
- Full-fee-paying international students.
- Holders of a conditional or unconditional Offer of Place.
- New to Victoria University of Wellington.
Applicants are not eligible if they:
- Completed high school in New Zealand.
- Completed EAP or Foundation Studies at Victoria University.
- Are Study Abroad, Exchange, or Twinning students.
- Are returning students (already in their 2nd trimester/year of same degree).
Conditions
- Must be enrolled full-time (minimum 45 points).
- Deferral allowed only within the same calendar year.
- Can be held alongside other scholarships.
- May be withdrawn if student changes to domestic fee status.
- Recipients may need to represent the university in events or promotions.
- Withdrawal or poor progress may require partial repayment.
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Offer of Place letter from the university
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Personal statement (500 words max)
- Why you chose the university
- Academic goals
- Scholarship merit
- Leadership and community involvement
- Reference letter (preferably academic or professional)
Tongarewa Scholarship Application Process
Applying for the Tongarewa Scholarship is straightforward:
- Apply for admission to Victoria University of Wellington
- Receive an offer (conditional or unconditional)
- Complete the scholarship application via the online portal
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before the deadline
Applications are assessed based on academic merit, personal statement quality, and potential contribution to the university.
Selection Process
- Competitive selection based on academic merit and personal statement.
- Applications reviewed by a university panel.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early to avoid deadline pressure
- Tailor your personal statement to reflect your goals and how they align with VUW’s values
- Highlight leadership, volunteer work, and global engagement
- Proofread thoroughly to avoid grammatical errors
- Seek a strong reference from someone who knows your capabilities well
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
International students in Wellington should budget around NZD $1,500–$2,000 per month, which includes:
- Rent: NZD $800–$1,000
- Food: NZD $300–$500
- Transport: NZD $100–$150
- Utilities and Internet: NZD $100–$200
- Miscellaneous: NZD $100–$150
Why Should You Choose This Opportunity?
This scholarship opens the door to world-class education in a safe, welcoming, and innovative country. Studying at Victoria University of Wellington will not only boost your academic profile but also connect you to global thought leaders and researchers. The Tongarewa Scholarship eases the financial burden, making quality education more accessible for future changemakers like you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the scholarship before receiving my offer letter?
No, you must have an offer of place (conditional or unconditional) to apply.
2. Is the scholarship renewable?
No, it is a one-time award applied to the first year of study.
3. Can I apply if I’m already studying at Victoria University?
No, the scholarship is only for new incoming students.
4. Can I combine this scholarship with other awards?
You may receive other awards, but the Tongarewa Scholarship will be applied only to tuition fees.
5. Do I need to apply separately for university admission and the scholarship?
Yes, the application processes are separate, and both must be completed on time.
Official Link for More Details and Application
🔗 Victoria University of Wellington – Tongarewa Scholarship
