New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships for Fiji

New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships for Fiji

The New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships for Fiji are prestigious, fully funded awards offered by the New Zealand Government to help Fijian students gain world-class qualifications at New Zealand universities or recognised Pacific regional institutions. These scholarships are designed to strengthen Fiji’s human resource capacity by developing leadership, technical skills, and sector expertise that align with the country’s national priorities. Successful scholars are expected to return to Fiji after their studies, bringing back valuable knowledge to drive sustainable development, innovation, and community advancement.

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​Programs Available
The Manaaki Scholarships offer flexible study options to suit Fiji’s development needs:

• Undergraduate degrees (Bachelor’s programs)
• Postgraduate qualifications (Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s degrees)
• Short-term targeted training for professionals
• Vocational and technical courses in priority sectors

Priority Areas for FijiThese scholarships are closely tied to Fiji’s development strategies and often include:

• Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agribusiness
• Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction
• Education and Teacher Development
• Health, Nursing, and Public Health Services
• Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Development
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Public Administration and Governance
• Tourism, Hospitality, and Sustainable Travel
• Trade, Economics, and Financial Management

Scholarship Benefits for Fijian ScholarsRecipients of the Manaaki Scholarship can expect comprehensive financial and academic support:

• Full tuition coverage
• Return economy airfare to and from New Zealand or the regional study destination
• Establishment grant (approx. NZD $3,000) for accommodation, study materials, and setup costs
• Monthly living allowance (stipend) to cover everyday expenses
• Health and travel insurance throughout the study period
• Research and thesis support for postgraduate students
• Academic and pastoral care services
• English language training (if required by the program)

Scholarship Categories

• New Zealand Tertiary Scholarships – For study in New Zealand universities and institutes of technology.
• Pacific Tertiary Scholarships – For study at regional institutions such as the University of the South Pacific (USP) or Fiji National University (FNU).
• Short Term Training Awards – For mid-career professionals seeking practical skills development in priority sectors.

Eligibility for Fijian ApplicantsApplicants must:

• Be a citizen of Fiji and have lived in Fiji for at least two years prior to applying.
• Be aged 18 years or older when the scholarship begins.
• Commit to returning to Fiji for at least two years after study.
• Meet academic entry requirements of the selected institution.
• Show leadership potential and a strong commitment to contributing to Fiji’s development goals.

Required Documents

• Certified academic transcripts and certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Birth certificate and valid passport
• Personal statement explaining career goals and relevance to Fiji’s development
• References or recommendation letters
• English language test results (IELTS/TOEFL) if required by the program
• Medical clearance (at a later stage if shortlisted)

How to Apply

1. Go to the Manaaki Scholarships Portal – www.scholarships.govt.nz
2. Create an account and complete the eligibility questionnaire.
3. If eligible, access and complete the online application form.
4. Upload all required supporting documents.
5. Submit before the closing date.
6. Applications will be assessed in consultation with Fiji’s government to ensure alignment with national priorities.

Application Timeline for Fiji

• Applications open: February each year
• Closing date: Usually late March
• Final results announced: Around October
• Study start date: Early the following year (February)

Tip: Always check the official Manaaki Scholarships website for the latest dates and any program changes.

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