New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships for Samoa

New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships for Samoa

​​The New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships for Samoa are fully funded opportunities provided by the New Zealand Government to support students from Samoa in pursuing higher education at New Zealand institutions or Pacific regional institutions. These scholarships aim to build knowledge, leadership, and technical expertise to contribute to Samoa’s development needs. They are awarded on merit and alignment with Samoa's priority sectors, enabling Samoan citizens to gain world-class education, enhance their skills, and return home to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the country's sustainable growth.

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Programs Offered

• Undergraduate degrees (Bachelor’s)
• Postgraduate degrees (Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s)
• Short-term training and certificates (available under specific targeted development programs)
• Vocational and technical training programs (for priority sectors)

Areas of StudyScholarships are aligned with Samoa’s development priorities and typically include:

• Agriculture and Agribusiness
• Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management
• Education and Teacher Training
• Health (including Nursing, Public Health, etc.)
• Renewable Energy and Infrastructure
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Public Sector and Governance
• Tourism and Hospitality
• Trade, Economics, and Finance

Scholarship Benefits for Samoa

• Full tuition fees paid
• Return airfare to and from New Zealand or regional institution
• Establishment allowance (NZD $3000 approx.) for accommodation, books, etc.
• Full living allowance (stipend) during studies
• Medical and travel insurance
• Research and thesis allowance (if applicable)
• Pastoral and academic support services
• Language training support if required

Program Types

1. New Zealand Tertiary Scholarships – For study in New Zealand universities or institutes of technology.
2. Pacific Tertiary Scholarships – For study in regional institutions like USP or Fiji National University.
3. Short Term Training Awards – Tailored for working professionals needing short upskilling in targeted development sectors.

EligibilityApplicants must:

• Be a citizen of Samoa and have resided in Samoa for at least two years before applying.
• Be at least 18 years old at the time of starting the scholarship.
• Intend to return to Samoa for at least two years after completing the scholarship.
• Meet academic entry requirements of chosen institutions and programs.
• Demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to development.

Requirements

• Certified copy of academic transcripts and certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Birth certificate and valid passport
• Personal statement outlining career goals and development relevance
• References or recommendation letters
• Medical clearance may be required at a later stage
• English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) if required by the institution

Application Process and Portal

1. Visit the official Manaaki Scholarships Portal:
   https://www.scholarships.govt.nz
2. Register for an account and complete the eligibility questionnaire.
3. If eligible, access the online application form.
4. Fill in the form with accurate personal, academic, and proposed study information.
5. Upload all required documents before submitting.
6. Applications are reviewed in consultation with Samoa’s government development priorities.

Scholarship Due Dates

• Online applications for Samoa generally open: February each year
• Application deadline: Typically by end of March
• Final selection outcomes are usually communicated by October, with successful scholars departing for studies in early the following year (e.g., February ).

Note: Always check the official Manaaki Scholarships website for the most updated dates and program details each year.

Also check out

• ​New Zealand Government Scholarships for International Students