The University of Waikato Excellence Scholarship offers international students an opportunity to study in New Zealand with a partial fee waiver for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. The University welcomes applications for the Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship from international students who are new to studying at the University of Waikato, and who will be coming to study here for face-to-face study. These scholarships are worth up to $15,000 for undergraduate students and $10,000 for postgraduate students. The University of Waikato awards Excellence Scholarships to applicants with excellent academic performance.
The QS World University Rankings place the University of Waikato in the top 1.5% of universities worldwide. Successful applicants may also be asked to serve as global ambassadors for the university. The University of Waikato Excellence Scholarship is available for both new and returning international students. Application deadline: 31 Dec 2025
University/Institution Details
- Name: University of Waikato
- Place: Hamilton, New Zealand
- Ranking: QS World University Rankings: Ranked 266-270 (2023)
- Programs: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including business, engineering, social sciences, health, and more.
- Duration: Scholarships are typically valid for the duration of the program, up to three years (undergraduate) or two years (postgraduate).
Study Areas
- Arts,
- Business / Management,
- Computer Science,
- Mathematics,
- Education,
- Health,
- Engineering,
- Law,
- Māori & Indigenous Studies,
- Science,
- Social Sciences
University of Waikato Excellence Scholarship Benefits
- The Scholarships have a value of up to NZD$15,000
- The scholarship will be applied directly to the recipient’s tuition fees for their chosen program(s) of study.
- The Selection Panel and Scholarships Committee decide the number of scholarships, the amount awarded, and the disbursement details. These decisions depend on factors such as GPA, available funding, chosen program, and its duration. Undergraduate students may receive up to $15,000, while postgraduate students can receive up to $10,000.
- The scholarship provides between $2,500 and $15,000, depending on eligibility. The University of Waikato pays this amount over the first 12 months of study, splitting it across two trimesters.
Benefits Not Included
- Travel costs, living expenses, health insurance, and other personal expenses are not covered by the scholarship.
Eligibilities of University of Waikato Excellence Scholarship
- Must be an international student (not from New Zealand or Australia).
- Be applying to enroll full-time in an undergraduate or postgraduate program, as a new international student at the University of Waikato.
- Have received a conditional or unconditional offer of place
- Have a minimum GPA equivalency of B+ in the qualification used to gain entrance to the University of Waikato.
- Students who study online with the University are not eligible to apply for the Vice-Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship.
- All applicants will be advised of the result of their application through their MyWaikato portal.
- Successful applicants will receive a scholarship offer which is valid for 14 days.
Applicants will be deemed ineligible if any of the following apply:
- Currently enrolled in the University of Waikato
- Have paid tuition fees or applied for a visa at the time of application
- coming to the University of Waikato via a sponsoring body
Selection is based on:
- Academic merit.
- Potential to become global ambassadors for the University of Waikato
Required Documents
- Upload your conditional or unconditional offer of admission from the University of Waikato.
- Clearly explain why you want to study at the University of Waikato and how you will represent the university as a global ambassador.
- Proof of academic qualifications and transcripts.
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Personal statement or motivation letter.
- A valid passport copy.
University of Waikato Excellence Scholarship Application Process
- Please ensure you read the regulations before you commence the application process.
- Apply for admission to an eligible program at the University of Waikato.
- Log into MyWaikato and click on the ‘Scholarships’ tab to see the list of available scholarships
- Complete the scholarship application form, usually available on the university website.
- Submit all required documents, including academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
- Wait for the scholarship decision after the application deadline.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your academic records are outstanding and align with the scholarship’s requirements.
- Submit a well-crafted personal statement highlighting your achievements, aspirations, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Double-check all documentation for completeness and accuracy before submission.
- Make sure to meet all application deadlines well in advance.
Living Expenses for International Students
The living expenses for international students at the University of Waikato can range between NZD 1,200 to NZD 1,500 per month. These costs typically cover:
- Accommodation: NZD 400 to NZD 800 per month (varies depending on shared or private accommodation)
- Food: NZD 300 to NZD 500 per month
- Transport: NZD 100 to NZD 150 per month (public transport is available, and many students also use bicycles)
- Miscellaneous: NZD 100 to NZD 200 for personal expenses, entertainment, and other items.
Why Choose this Opportunity?
The University of Waikato provides world-class education, a diverse student environment, and the chance to experience life in New Zealand, which is known for its natural beauty and high-quality living standards. The Excellence Scholarship helps make studying at this prestigious institution more affordable, enabling you to focus on your studies while gaining international exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I apply for the University of Waikato Excellence Scholarship?
- You must first apply for admission to the University of Waikato, then complete the scholarship application form through their website.
- Can I apply for this scholarship if I am already enrolled at the university?
- Yes, returning international students are also eligible to apply.
- What is the GPA requirement for the scholarship?
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 or an equivalent academic performance is required.
- Can the scholarship be used for a Master’s program?
- Yes, the scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate (Master’s) programs.
- Are there any age restrictions for this scholarship?
- No, there are no specific age restrictions; however, applicants must meet academic eligibility criteria for their program.