In a major step to promote academic partnerships between India and New Zealand, the New Zealand Prime Minister has unveiled the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) scholarships for students from India. The scholarships, worth NZ$260,000, will aid Indian students seeking higher education in New Zealand.
The declaration occurred during an event at IIT Delhi, where multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were executed between universities from New Zealand and institutions in India. The agreements are intended to promote research partnerships, student exchanges, and collaborative programs across different disciplines.
To qualify for the NZEA scholarships, candidates must be a minimum of 18 years old, possess valid Indian citizenship, and not be a citizen or permanent resident of either New Zealand or Australia. They must be living in India when applying, satisfy the criteria set by Immigration New Zealand for a student visa, and possess an unconditional admission offer from a New Zealand university for a qualifying course.
The scholarships aim to enhance New Zealand’s connections with India and draw more Indian students to its universities. Data forecasted by the Ministry of External Affairs in 2024 indicates that around 7,300 Indian international students reside in New Zealand, underscoring its increasing attractiveness as an educational center.
A major reason for New Zealand’s increasing appeal is its comparatively low tuition fees and the option for post-study work permits. These prospects render it a compelling choice for students pursuing quality education with solid career potential.
The New Zealand government has updated the eligibility requirements for the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), offering students more flexibility in their educational path. With the new regulations, students who finish a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) lasting at least 30 weeks and directly move on to a Master’s degree—without fulfilling the 30-week enrollment criteria for the Master’s—are now eligible to apply for a PSWV based on their PGDip.
The introduction of the NZEA scholarships and the updated PSWV eligibility requirements showcase New Zealand’s dedication to drawing in and aiding international students. As the nation enhances its educational connections with India, it is expected to turn into a more sought-after location for Indian students looking for high-quality education and job prospects overseas.
