Studying in New Zealand is an attractive option for international students looking for high-quality education, globally recognised qualifications, and scholarship opportunities. For 2026, students can explore New Zealand scholarships without IELTS, although the phrase “without IELTS” does not always mean that no English-language evidence will ever be required.
Some New Zealand universities accept alternative English-language pathways, previous study in English, or approved English assessments instead of IELTS. The official Study with New Zealand platform also lists pathway programmes that can help students meet English requirements without repeatedly sitting IELTS or TOEFL exams.
For students searching for fully funded scholarships in New Zealand 2026, one of the most important opportunities to investigate is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship.
Study in New Zealand Without IELTS in 2026
The opportunity to study in New Zealand without IELTS depends on the university, programme, scholarship and applicant’s educational background. Therefore, students should not assume that every New Zealand scholarship automatically waives English testing.
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, for example, does not require applicants to submit English-language test scores when they initially apply for tertiary study. However, shortlisted candidates must eventually demonstrate the required English proficiency.
This distinction is important for international students searching for New Zealand scholarships without IELTS 2026.
In some cases, students may be able to use an alternative English assessment or complete an approved pathway programme before beginning their degree.
Fully Funded New Zealand Scholarships 2026
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is a major government-funded scholarship programme for eligible citizens from participating developing countries.
The scholarship supports undergraduate and postgraduate study at approved New Zealand education institutions. According to the official programme information, eligible scholars can receive comprehensive financial support covering major study and living expenses.
What Does the Manaaki Scholarship Cover?
A successful Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship recipient can receive benefits including:
- 🎓 Full tuition fees
- 💰 Living allowance
- 🏠 Establishment allowance
- 🏥 Medical insurance
- 📚 Tutoring support where required
- ✈️ Travel to and from the student’s home country
- 🧳 Travel insurance
- 🏡 Travel home during longer scholarship programmes
- 💵 Reintegration allowance
- 🔬 Research and thesis costs for many postgraduate students
These benefits make the Manaaki programme one of the leading fully funded scholarships in New Zealand for international students.
Universities Available Under the Manaaki Scholarship
Students awarded a Manaaki scholarship may study at approved institutions in New Zealand, depending on their country eligibility, academic level and available courses.
The official list includes eight universities:
- Auckland University of Technology
- Lincoln University
- Massey University
- University of Auckland
- University of Canterbury
- University of Otago
- University of Waikato
- Victoria University of Wellington
Approved institutes of technology are also available under the programme.
This gives international applicants several options when searching for fully funded study in New Zealand 2026.
Can You Really Study in New Zealand Without IELTS?
Yes, in some circumstances, but applicants need to understand the conditions.
For the Manaaki scholarship, IELTS is not required at the initial scholarship application stage for tertiary applicants. However, shortlisted applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency during the later selection process if they do not already have an accepted recent test result.
The official guidance states that shortlisted applicants can use accepted tests such as:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge Academic English
Therefore, “without IELTS” should not be interpreted as “without English requirements.”
Instead, it may mean that you can apply for the scholarship before taking IELTS and potentially satisfy the institution’s English requirements through another approved route.
Alternative Ways to Meet English Requirements
International students should check the exact requirements of their chosen university and programme.
New Zealand’s official study platform highlights pathway programmes that can help students meet English-language entry requirements without having to retake IELTS or TOEFL.
For example, the University of Auckland offers English pathway programmes. Students who successfully complete certain programmes can meet university English requirements without subsequently taking IELTS or another similar test.
This makes pathway options particularly useful for students searching for how to study in New Zealand without IELTS.
English Requirements for New Zealand Scholarships
Although IELTS may not be required at the initial Manaaki application stage, students should still investigate the English requirements of their intended programme.
As a general guide, the Manaaki programme says postgraduate study commonly requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0, while undergraduate study commonly requires an overall 6.0 with no band below 5.5. However, individual programmes may have different requirements.
Applicants should therefore research the programme before applying for a New Zealand fully funded scholarship.
Who Can Apply for New Zealand Scholarships?
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is not open to every country worldwide. It is specifically designed for eligible citizens from participating countries and regions.
Applicants must satisfy the programme’s eligibility requirements, including citizenship, academic requirements, programme availability and other conditions. The scholarship also focuses on subjects connected to the development needs of participating countries.
This means prospective applicants should first confirm whether their country is eligible before preparing a full application.
What Can You Study in New Zealand?
The available programmes depend on the applicant’s country and the subjects supported by the Manaaki programme.
Applicants should research the approved courses and select programmes that:
- Match their academic background
- Are available at their eligible study level
- Align with the recommended subjects for their country
- Support their long-term career goals
- Meet the university’s admission requirements
The official scholarship programme provides information about approved institutions and available courses.
How to Apply for New Zealand Scholarships 2026
Students interested in fully funded scholarships in New Zealand 2026 should follow the official application process rather than relying on third-party scholarship websites.
The general process involves:
1. Check Your Country Eligibility
First, confirm that your country is included among the countries eligible for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship.
2. Check the Academic Requirements
Make sure your previous qualification meets the requirements for the degree you intend to pursue.
3. Research Recommended Subjects
Manaaki provides recommended areas of study based on the development priorities of participating countries.
4. Research Universities and Courses
Identify suitable programmes at approved New Zealand institutions.
5. Prepare Your Documents
Applicants should prepare academic transcripts and other supporting documents required during the application process.
6. Submit the Scholarship Application
Applications are submitted through the official Manaaki application system when applications for the applicant’s country or region are open.
7. Complete Further Selection Requirements
Shortlisted applicants may need to provide additional documents and English-language evidence before final selection.
Application Deadline for 2026
Deadlines for New Zealand scholarships 2026 vary depending on the applicant’s country and scholarship category.
The official Manaaki website currently indicates that applications for the Samoa Foundation opened on 4 August 2026 and close at midday on 4 September 2026. Other application periods may differ.
Applicants should always check the official scholarship website for the deadline applicable to their country.
Why Study in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers international students a combination of internationally recognised education, research opportunities and practical learning.
For scholarship recipients, studying in New Zealand can also provide international exposure, professional networks and experience within a different academic environment.
The financial support offered through fully funded programmes such as Manaaki can significantly reduce the cost of studying overseas.
Final Thoughts
For students searching for Study in New Zealand Without IELTS 2026, there are opportunities worth exploring. However, applicants should understand that without IELTS does not necessarily mean without an English requirement.
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship allows tertiary applicants to apply without submitting English test scores at the initial application stage, while shortlisted candidates may later need to demonstrate English proficiency.
Students should therefore check their country eligibility, programme requirements and approved English-language options before applying.
If your goal is to study in New Zealand with a fully funded scholarship, start by researching the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship and other university-based opportunities for international students.
Official Scholarship Information:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study in New Zealand without IELTS in 2026?
Yes, some institutions and pathways allow students to meet English requirements through alternatives to IELTS. Requirements vary by university and programme.
Is IELTS required for the Manaaki scholarship?
Not at the initial tertiary scholarship application stage. Shortlisted applicants may later need to provide an accepted English test result.
Is the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship can cover tuition, living support, travel, insurance and several other costs, subject to the programme’s conditions.
Who is eligible for Manaaki scholarships?
The programme is available to citizens of selected eligible countries and regions. Applicants must meet all applicable eligibility criteria.
Can I use an alternative to IELTS?
Potentially. Accepted English tests and alternative pathways depend on the scholarship and education institution. Students should check the requirements of their chosen programme.
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