How to apply online for a New Zealand Scholarship

Follow these steps to apply for a New Zealand Scholarship using our online application system.

Applicants applying again

Eligible applicants can only start an application from the application opening date for their country. If you have previously applied or started an application for a New Zealand Scholarship since 2016 through the RealMe process please complete the following steps:

Step 1: Re-set your password

• If you have previously applied for a New Zealand Scholarship before 2023, Click here (external link) and complete the instructions on how to re-set your password. Hint: Look for the RealMe logo.
• You will be sent an email with the link to reset your password. Follow the instructions on the screen after you click on the link. Remember to look in your spam folder, where automated messages are sometimes filtered.
• If you have forgotten your password, please click on ‘Forgot your password?’ and follow the instructions.

Step 2: Confirm your eligibility

Complete the online eligibility test using the link on the NZ Scholarships portal. Please note: The eligibility questionnaire is currently unavailable due to technical maintenance. Please check back in March 2021 for a link to the online eligibility questionnaire.

Step 3: Complete and submit your application before the closing date

Use your New Zealand Scholarship account to access the New Zealand Scholarship online application system anytime between the opening and closing dates for your country.

New applicants

Eligible applicants can only start an application from the application opening date for their country.

Step 1: Confirm your eligibility

Complete the Online Eligibility Test to see if you are eligible to apply. If the Online Eligibility Test confirms that you are eligible, you will get an eligibility code (number). Please note the test is currently unavailable.

Step 2: Register for a New Zealand Scholarship account

If you are eligible you will see a “register” button on the webpage, click on this to start your registration for New Zealand Scholarship Account.

You will be asked to enter an email address (this will become your username for logging on again later). The system will run a check to make sure that this email address is not already being used. If the check passes, you will need to complete the rest of your account details and select ‘Register’.

This is where you will enter your Eligibility Code that you have emailed to yourself or written down.

Step 3: Set password for your New Zealand Scholarship account

You will be sent an email to set a password to complete the registration process.  Click on the link in the email which will take you to a screen where you will need to set your password.  Remember to look in your spam folder, where automated messages are sometimes filtered.

Step 4: Complete and submit your application before the closing date

Use your New Zealand Scholarship account to access the New Zealand Scholarship online application system anytime between the opening and closing dates for your country.

Application writing tips

• Write in English: We do not accept applications in other languages.
• Check your work: Make sure your answers make sense. Use correct English grammar, punctuation and spelling.
• Keep answers concise: Make sure each answer is within the maximum character limit specified on the form.
• Don’t cheat or plagiarise: We will reject your application if there is evidence your work is not your own work or other people have helped you with your answers.

Tips for using the online application system

You must supply a valid email address

Throughout the selection process, we contact applicants by email. It is very important your email address remains current. It is also important that you check your email regularly. You must reply to us promptly, otherwise you may miss updates. If you fail to reply promptly, you may lose your chance of a scholarship.

Your email address is also your username. If you need to change your email address remember that this will also change your username.

You can change your email address after you submit your application

1. First login to the NZ Scholarships Portal using your current username/email address.
2. Select the “My Profile” option in the menu in the top right of the page.
3. Select “Edit” (at bottom of page).
4. Enter your new Email address, and save the changes.

Remember this is now your new username and YOU MUST ensure you have entered the new email address correctly or you will not receive notifications from us.