The University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship is a fully funded PhD award in New Zealand. It supports full time doctoral study at New Zealand’s top ranked university. There is no separate scholarship form. Many applicants also compare it with other fully funded routes. For example, some look at the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, another major option in New Zealand.
Overview
- Host country, New Zealand
- Host school, University of Auckland
- Level of study, PhD only
- Field of study, All fields, across every faculty
- Nationality, Open to international students from all countries
- Funded by, University of Auckland
Benefits of the University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship
First, scholars get a tax free stipend. Also, they get full tuition fees. Plus, they get health insurance. In short, the award covers this.
- A tax free stipend of 35,468 New Zealand Dollars per year, adjusted yearly for inflation
- Full tuition fees, at the domestic student rate
- Single student health insurance, for international scholars
- Funding for up to 42 months, for most doctoral programmes
- Funding for up to 30 months, for DHSc or EdD candidates
Who Should Apply
This award suits students ready to start a PhD. It does not suit Master’s or undergraduate applicants. Meanwhile, students who want funding across several study levels instead may prefer the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship. That program also funds undergraduate and Master’s study.
Eligibility Requirements
Overall, applicants must meet these points.
- Be applying for, or already accepted into, a doctoral programme at the school
- Show a strong academic record from past study
- Meet the English language rules for doctoral admission
- Show clear research ability and a strong doctoral proposal
- Not already hold another equal doctoral scholarship
No Separate Application
Notably, the school reviews you automatically. This happens right when you apply for your programme. This automatic review process is close to the setup used for the Clarendon Fund Scholarship, where one single application also covers both admission and funding.
Required Documents
- Completed doctoral programme application
- Academic transcripts
- A research proposal
- Proof of English language skill
- Letters of reference, as set by your chosen faculty
How to Apply
First, find a supervisor and confirm your research area. Next, apply for your programme through the normal admission steps. Then, indicate you wish to be considered for funding during that same form. Also, this early supervisor contact step is close to the one used for the Singapore International Graduate Award.
Application Deadline
This scholarship runs in four rounds each year. These fall in March, June, September, and December. The next round after today falls around November 2026. So, this window is still open now, which gives you real time to prepare a strong application.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this scholarship gives strong, complete funding for PhD study in New Zealand. However, if you want funding at an earlier study level instead, check other options too. For instance, the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship funds undergraduate and Master’s study too.
