Tongareva International Scholarship 2025 | Study in New Zealand


Looking for a chance to study at a world-class university in New Zealand? The Tongareva International Scholarship at Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington is here to support international students like you! This partial-fee scholarship celebrates academic excellence and helps new students kickstart their undergraduate or postgraduate journey. Below, we’ve simplified everything you need to know to apply and shine.

What is the Tongareva International Scholarship?

The Tongareva International Scholarship reflects Victoria University of Wellington’s commitment to its global student community. It’s a partially funded scholarship for new international students entering their first year of an undergraduate degree or any postgraduate program, including Master’s by research or coursework.

Key Benefits

  • Tuition Fee Support: Up to NZD 10,000 credited toward your tuition fees for one year.
  • One-Year Tenure: Covers your first year of study, easing financial stress.
  • Global Recognition: Being a Tongareva scholar highlights your academic and leadership potential.
  • Ambassador Opportunities: Represent the university at events, boosting your networking and leadership skills.

Also Check: FAPESP Masters Scholarship in Brazil 2025-2026

Who Can Apply?

This competitive scholarship is open to international students worldwide who meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Requirements

  • International Fee Status: You must be paying full international tuition fees.
  • New Students: Entering your first year of an undergraduate degree or any postgraduate program (e.g., Master’s by coursework or research).
  • Offer of Place: Hold a conditional or unconditional Offer of Place from Victoria University of Wellington.
  • First-Time at VUW: You must be new to Victoria University of Wellington.

Who Cannot Apply?

You are not eligible if you:

  • Completed secondary education at a New Zealand school.
  • Completed the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or Foundation Studies Program at Victoria University of Wellington.
  • Are a Study Abroad, Exchange, or Twinning student from a partner university.
  • Are in your second trimester or later of the same degree program at the university.

Scholarship Value and Number

  • Value: Awards are NZD 2,500, 5,000, 7,500, or 10,000, credited to tuition fees approximately two weeks after your program starts (post-withdrawal period).
  • Number Offered: Varies annually, with multiple scholarships awarded.
  • Duration: One year only, non-renewable.
  • Payment: You must pay tuition fees upfront; the scholarship cannot be deducted in advance.

Note: If you withdraw or fail to maintain satisfactory progress, you may need to repay part of the scholarship. If your fee status changes to domestic before the scholarship is credited, it will be withdrawn.

Application Deadlines

The scholarship is available for three trimesters in 2025. Apply by the deadline for your intended start date:

  • Trimester 1, 2025: November 1, 2024
  • Trimester 2, 2025: May 1, 2025
  • Trimester 3, 2025: August 1, 2025

Important: Applications close at 4:30 PM New Zealand Time. Late or incomplete submissions are not accepted.

See Also: AAUW International Fellowships for Women 2026-2027 (MS and PHD)

How to Apply

Applying is simple but requires attention to detail. Follow these steps for a successful application:

Application Process

  1. Get an Offer: Apply for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program at Victoria University of Wellington and receive a conditional or unconditional Offer of Place.
  2. Gather Documents:
    • Personal Statement (500 words max): Explain why you want to study at Victoria University of Wellington, your academic goals, why you deserve the scholarship, and highlight leadership roles or community involvement.
    • Offer of Place: Upload your conditional or unconditional Offer of Place.
    • Supporting Documents: Include academic transcripts or certificates as required.
  3. Submit Online: Complete the scholarship application via the Victoria University of Wellington scholarship portal by 4:30 PM (NZT) on the deadline.
  4. Ensure Completeness: Upload all required documents by the deadline, or your application will be dismissed.

Application Tips

  • Highlight Achievements: Showcase your academic excellence and leadership experience.
  • Write a Strong Statement: Be clear, passionate, and specific about your goals and connection to the university.
  • Check Everything: Proofread for errors and confirm all documents are included.
  • Apply Early: Avoid last-minute issues with the online portal.

Selection Process

A panel of Wellington University International staff reviews applications based on:

  • Academic Excellence: Your grades and academic achievements.
  • Personal Statement: The quality of your goals, motivation, and leadership/community contributions.

Decisions are final and cannot be appealed. Successful applicants will be notified after the review process.

Important Conditions

  • Enrollment Requirement: You must be fully enrolled in a full-year program (at least 45 points) to receive the scholarship.
  • Deferral: You may request to defer the scholarship to another trimester in the same calendar year, but not to a later year.
  • Concurrent Awards: The scholarship can be held with other awards.
  • Ambassador Role: Recipients may be asked to participate in university events or marketing activities.
  • Special Circumstances: Terms may be modified to avoid hardship, at the discretion of the deciding authority.

Why Study at Victoria University of Wellington?

Located in New Zealand’s vibrant capital, Victoria University of Wellington is a globally ranked institution (#241 in QS World University Rankings 2024) known for:

  • Research-driven programs and academic excellence.
  • A welcoming international student community.
  • A lively campus in Wellington, a hub of culture and innovation.

The Tongareva Scholarship is your gateway to this dynamic academic environment.

Contact Information

Have questions? Reach out to the Scholarships Office:

Apply Now

Take the First Step Toward Your Future!

The Tongareva International Scholarship is a golden opportunity to study in New Zealand with financial support and global prestige. Don’t wait—apply now and start your journey at Victoria University of Wellington!

Explore more scholarship opportunities on our website!



Discover more from Fellowships Guide

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Photo of author

Muhammad Umar

As the founder of Fellowships Guide, my name is Muhammad Umar. I completed my higher education from GIK Institute. I am an alumnus of the TWAS-TUBITAK, Turkiye and have participated in the Young Leaders Fellowship in the Maldives. I have also been part of various international academic and research programs. Since 2017, I have explored and benefited from multiple fully funded opportunities. Based on my journey, I launched Fellowships Guide to help students access scholarships, fellowships, and exchange programs worldwide. I actively mentor those passionate about studying abroad and professional development. Read our Disclaimer Policy. Read About Us.

Leave a Comment

Discover more from Fellowships Guide

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading