New Delhi: Strengthening educational ties between India and New Zealand, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced the launch of the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) 2025. This initiative offers 29 scholarships to Indian students aspiring to study at New Zealand’s top universities, reinforcing the country’s commitment to academic exchange and cultural collaboration.
The NZ$260,000 scholarship package will provide financial assistance ranging from NZD 5,000 to NZD 20,000 for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Applications opened on March 18, 2025, and will close on April 30, 2025.
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
The NZEA 2025 is a joint initiative by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao and eight of the country’s leading universities. It aims to reduce financial barriers for Indian students and provide them with access to world-class education in a safe, sustainable, and innovative learning environment.
Beyond financial support, the program offers students the opportunity to work part-time while studying and gain international work experience through a three-year post-study work visa after graduation.
Eligibility Criteria for NZEA 2025
To apply for the New Zealand Excellence Awards, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be an Indian citizen (not a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia)
- Meet Immigration New Zealand’s student visa requirements
- Be residing in India at the time of application
- Hold an unconditional offer for an eligible course at one of the participating universities
NZEA 2025 Scholarship: How to Apply?
Indian students meeting the eligibility requirements can follow these steps to apply:
- Explore Programs & Universities – Visit studywithnewzealand.govt.nz to research available courses.
- Submit Your Application – Apply directly to the university or through an authorized education agent.
- Apply for a Student Visa – Complete your visa application at immigration.govt.nz.
- Submit Your NZEA Scholarship Application – Apply before April 30, 2025.
Participating Universities in NZEA 2025
The NZEA scholarships are available at the following eight globally recognized universities:
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) – Top 1% globally, known for industry-driven education.
University of Auckland – Ranked 65th in the world, excelling in research and sustainability.
Lincoln University – Specializing in agriculture, environmental management, and sustainability.
Massey University – Offers programs in agriculture, design, and veterinary sciences.
University of Waikato – Home to a triple-crown accredited management school.
University of Otago – New Zealand’s first university, famous for research excellence.
Victoria University of Wellington – Leading in creativity, policy studies, and sustainability.
University of Canterbury – Renowned for engineering, business, and hands-on learning.
Work & Life in New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand comes with several benefits beyond academics:
Work While Studying – Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays.
Post-Study Work Visa – Graduates can apply for a three-year post-study work visa to gain international industry experience.
Competitive Wages – With New Zealand’s minimum wage increasing to NZD 23.50 per hour in April 2025, students can support themselves financially.
Quality of Life – New Zealand offers stunning landscapes, adventure opportunities, and a welcoming multicultural environment, making it an ideal place to live and study.
With the New Zealand Excellence Awards 2025, Indian students now have an exciting opportunity to study in a world-class education system while experiencing global career prospects. The scholarship not only provides financial relief but also ensures that students can build a future in an innovation-driven economy.
