Undergraduate scholarships

These are the scholarships at undergraduate level currently administered by Universities New Zealand – Te Pōkai Tara.

Before starting an application, intending applicants should make sure they satisfy the eligibility criteria and are familiar with the area of study and objectives of the scholarship.

Applications usually open four months before the closing date.

In using the Universities New Zealand online application system to apply for a scholarship, applicants are confirming they have read, understood and accept University New Zealand's Privacy Notice and Scholarships Appeals Policy.

Scholarships

Brian Gaynor Initiatives – Scholarship in Journalism

Established to encourage and support final year undergraduate students interested in pursuing journalism, with a focus on business journalism, as a career.

Apply online
Applications open: 17 March
Applications close: 18 May

Cambridge International Scholarship

A degree in any discipline at Cambridge University.

Edna Waddell Undergraduate Scholarship for Women in Technology and Engineering

For women entering their first year of full-time study for an undergraduate degree in engineering or technology at a New Zealand university.
Apply online
Applications open: 1 May
Applications close: 1 September

Ernest William File Scholarship

For the children of members of the Rail and Maritime Transport Union in their first year of an undergraduate degree at a New Zealand university.
Apply online
Applications open: 1 December
Applications close: 1 April

Girdlers' Scholarship

For undergraduate study at Corpus Christi College at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Scholarship is offered every three years. Applications next open in 2027, for study commencing in 2028.

Apply online
Applications open: 1 June 2027
Applications close: 1 September 2027

KiwiRail Scholarship

First degree or diploma study in any discipline that aligns with KiwiRail's core functions. Open to the children of permanent employees of KiwiRail.
Apply online
Applications open: 1 August
Applications close: 1 December

Maritime Union Scholarship

Open to members and children and grandchildren of members of the Maritime Union of New Zealand, or the New Zealand Seafarers Union, or the New Zealand Seamen’s Union Industrial Union of Workers, or the Waterfront Workers Union, or the Waterside Workers Federation/Association, and funded by the Maritime Union Scholarship Trust for any area of study that will benefit New Zealand.
Apply online
Applications open: 1 August
Applications close: 1 December

Mercury Scholarship in Engineering

To support undergraduate students undertaking a research project in engineering, or another similar discipline of study.

Apply online
Applications open: 31 January
Applications close: 15 March

Milford Foundation Scholarship

Aimed at reducing unequal access to tertiary education, by providing financial support to school leavers for whom cost is a barrier. Scholarship recipients also benefit from the Milford Foundation network to support them in their higher education journey and career path.

Apply online
Applications open: 14 June
Applications close: 1 August

Robertson Scholars Leadership Program

This scholarship program is no longer administered by Universities New Zealand.

For information on the program and how to apply please contact The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program directly at https://robertsonscholars.org/