Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship

Manaaki (the te reo Māori word for hospitality, care, and support) is the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade's flagship scholarship programme. It replaced the earlier New Zealand Scholarships Programme in 2021.

Nepal is one of about 50 eligible developing countries. Each year, a small but meaningful number of Nepali students are awarded Manaaki scholarships to study at New Zealand universities and ITPs.

Full tuition at the approved New Zealand institution, a living allowance of NZD 491 per week (reviewed annually), a one-off NZD 3,000 establishment allowance, return economy airfare, and comprehensive medical and travel insurance.

For Master's and PhD students, an additional research/thesis allowance is available. Family members are not funded — partners and children must be supported separately or remain in Nepal.

You must be a Nepali citizen residing in Nepal at the time of application, with at least 2 years of relevant work experience for postgraduate study (1 year for undergraduate).

You must demonstrate intent to use your degree to contribute to Nepal's development — the application asks how your studies will support Nepal's progress. A written commitment to return to Nepal for at least 2 years after graduation is mandatory.

IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) is the standard English requirement. The age limit is generally 18–39 for postgraduate applicants.

Applications open in February–March each year via the MFAT Manaaki portal. You apply directly to MFAT — not to a New Zealand university first.

Shortlisted candidates undergo interviews (typically virtual) with the New Zealand High Commission. Selected scholars are then placed at a New Zealand institution based on their study plan and the institution's capacity.

Tip: Manaaki is competitive. Nepali applicants from rural districts, women in STEM, and applicants from underrepresented communities are encouraged.