Victoria University of Wellington Scholarships 2026 Overview & Application Guide

Overview of Victoria University of Wellington Scholarship program for International Students 2026.

Victoria University of Wellington also known as Te Herenga Waka is a premier institution in New Zealand which has students from all over the globe. For the 2026 academic year we see that the university has put forth a large number of scholarship options which are for international students. We have a great choice of scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral level study that cover many fields of study. Also we have financial relief with these scholarships which also open the door to what is in fact some of the best in the world at which to get an education in what is also one of the world’s most liveable cities.

Which students qualify for The Victoria University of Wellington 2026 scholarships?

Scholarships are awarded to new international students that are enrolling for the first time in undergraduate, master’s (coursework or research) or doctoral programs at Victoria University of Wellington. Also included are applicants which:

• Be full-fee paying international students.
• Hold an open offer of place from the university.
• Show outstanding academic achievement and leadership skills.
• Not to include students which are from Study Abroad or Exchange programs at the university (except in the case of certain alumni related scholarships).

Fields of Study Covered

Scholarship opportunities at Victoria University of Wellington exist in all fields of study which we offer which include but are not limited to:

• Sciences and Engineering
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Business and Government
• Law
• Education
• Health and Wellbeing
• Environmental and Marine Sciences
• Architecture and Design Innovation

Specific master’s scholarships also include fields such as International Trade, Conservation Biology, and Marine Conservation.

Universities Included in the Program

All scholarships are for Victoria University of Wellington (Te Herenga Waka) in New Zealand. Also some external and partnership based scholarships like the China Scholarship Council (CSC) VUW PhD Program which is a joint effort between VUW and institutions in China.

Selection Process for Applicants

Selection is in based of a results based competition which is run by the university’s scholarship board. We look at such as:

• Academic excellence (GPA or equivalent)
• Leadership qualities and community involvement
• Motivation and clarity of career goals
• Quality and relevance of the personal statement.
• Letters of recommendation (if required)

Some scholarships may require interviews or in depth evaluation based on the award amount and type.

Documents Needed for Application

To apply for the position candidates must submit the following documents:

• Admission (to VUW of) which is Conditional or Unconditional.
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• A well-written 500-word personal statement
• Proof of fluency in English where appropriate.
• Curriculum of Experience (CV) or Resume (for postgraduate scholarships).
• Letters of reference (where requested)

Passport or national ID copy

Eligibility by Country

While there is global access to many scholarships some are reserved for certain regions which include:

• Latin American Academic Achievement Grant -- for students from Latin American countries.
• China’s Scholarship Program at VUW for PhD students from China.
• Manaia New Zealand Scholarship fully funded for students from chosen developing countries.

Students are to check which countries are eligible for each scholarship program at the VUW website or New Zealand government scholarship platforms.

Benefits of the Victoria University of Wellington Scholarships for International Students 2026.

The benefits of a given scholarship may vary but in general they include:

• Tuition grants that range from NZ10,000.
• Full tuition grant and stipends for doctorate students (up to NZ$30,500 per year fees).
• For a term awards we have one time grants for study abroad students (e.g. NZ$1,000).
• Scholarships which include living and accommodation support.
• Support of leadership and academic achievement among international high school graduates.

Duration of the Scholarship

• Undergraduate scholarships: From year to year, it may take between 1 and 3. Also this may vary by program.
• Master’s scholarships: Varies; also available for a full time study period of 1 year.
• Doctoral scholarships: Up to 3 years’ worth of tuition and stipend support.
• Some scholarships are for renewal based on academic performance.

Application Procedure

• Secure Admission: Get into Victoria University of Wellington.
• Identify Eligible Scholarships: Review the universities’ scholarships program and see which one which best fit your program, national origin, and academic level.
• Prepare Application Materials: Collect the required documents as listed above.
• Submit Online Application: Apply at the VUW online scholarship application portal before the deadline.
• Track and Respond: Check your email for reports and also for requests of more info.

How to Apply for The Victoria University of Wellington Scholarships for International Students 2026?

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

Visit the Official VUW Scholarships Website: https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/scholarships

Search for the Specific Scholarship Name: (e.g., “Tongarewa Scholarship” or “Wellington Doctoral Scholarship”)

Create a VUW Student Account here and complete the online scholarship form.

Attach All Supporting Documents before submitting.

Submit Your Application by the appropriate deadline:

Trimester 1, 2026: November 1, 2025

Trimester 2, 2026: May 1, 2026

Trimester 3, 2026: September 1, 2026

Final Thoughts

Victoria University of Wellington presents a wide range of scholarships which we have put together to help international students achieve academic excellence in a supportive, inclusive, and innovative environment. We have options for those that are going after an undergraduate degree as well as for those who are aimed at research doctorate there is a scholarship which will fuel your academic journey in New Zealand. We encourage you to apply early, put together a strong application, and take the next step toward your global education dream in 2026.