The Waikato Excellence Scholarship, a transformative study in New Zealand initiative, invites international students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the University of Waikato, ranked #235 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025). Established in 1964, this international scholarships New Zealand program fosters global academic ambassadors in disciplines like arts, business, computer science, engineering, health, law, Māori and Indigenous studies, sciences, and social sciences. Scholars embark on a transformative educational journey, engaging in world-class research at a leading public university in Hamilton, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and cultural diversity.
The Waikato Excellence Scholarship empowers scholars to drive innovative research at state-of-the-art facilities, including the Waikato Management School and Environmental Research Institute. Scholars collaborate with expert faculty on projects addressing sustainability, digital innovation, global health, and indigenous knowledge, with 85% of graduates securing professional roles in industry, research, or policy-making post-graduation. Launched in 2015 by the University Council, the program supports a vibrant community of 2,500+ international students from 70+ countries, fostering cross-cultural academic synergy and aligning with Waikato’s mission to promote internationalization and inclusivity.
The scholarship champions global professional networks. Scholars join a prestigious Waikato alumni network, connecting with peers, mentors, and industry leaders through research symposiums, career workshops, and events like Hamilton Innovation Summit, Waikato Māori Cultural Festival, and International Student Expo. This inclusive framework supports diverse perspectives, with 45% of scholars from underrepresented regions. Campus activities, such as Waikato River conservation projects, Hamilton Arts Festival, or student-led tech hackathons, enrich the research-driven experience, with 60% forming international professional ties. Waikato’s partnerships with institutions in Asia, Europe, and North America enhance cross-border research opportunities.
Studying in Hamilton, scholars explore natural wonders like Waikato River, Raglan Beach, or Hobbiton, immersing in New Zealand’s cultural vibrancy. Events like Balloon over Waikato, Matariki Māori New Year, or Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival deepen engagement. Waikato’s modern campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, with advanced labs, digital libraries, and cultural hubs, support global academic excellence, with connectivity to Auckland, Sydney, and Fiji. Hamilton’s safe, affordable environment (QS Best Student Cities 2025) complements academic pursuits, ideal for degree studies.
Candidates must secure a conditional or unconditional offer for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program (excluding PhD and MPhil) and submit an online scholarship application including a personal statement highlighting academic achievements and ambassador potential. Join a global cohort to champion academic innovation, embrace New Zealand’s cultural diversity, and redefine career horizons with the Waikato Excellence Scholarship!
University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship in New Zealand:
Host Country:
•New Zealand.
Host University:
•University of Waikato
Program Level:
•Undergraduate level.
•Postgraduate level.
Subject Areas:
•Arts, Business / Management, Computer Science, Mathematics, Education, Health, Engineering, Law, Māori & Indigenous Studies, Science, Social Sciences
Benefits of the University of Waikato Scholarship in New Zealand:
•Candidates will be given $15,000 towards the tuition fee.
•Study at one of the best universities in New Zealand.
Eligibility Criteria of the University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship:
1. Must apply to enroll full-time in an undergraduate or postgraduate program as a new international student at the University of Waikato.
2. Must have a conditional or unconditional offer from the University of Waikato.
3. Must have a minimum GPA equivalent to B+ in the qualification used for admission.
4. Applicants must pay a USD 39 registration fee.
5. For medical fields study, Applicant need to give medical examination conducted by the University (if required).
Documents required for the University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship:
1. Recommendation letter (if available).
2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of high school or Graduation of bachelor’s degree.
3. Academic transcript of high school or bachelor’s program (if required).
4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).
5. CV (if required).
6. Motivation letter/statement of purpose (if any).
7. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.
8. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).
9. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).
10. University Admission Offer Letter (If Already Issued).
11. For medical fields study, Applicant who given medical examination conducted by the University (if required) need to submit examination result.
Scholarship Deadline:
• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.
• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in December 2025!
Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.
