The University of Canterbury offers Incoming First-Year Scholarships targeted at students demonstrating leadership potential, those facing financial hardship or personal circumstances, students relocating for study with accommodation costs, and international students.
Application Deadline:
- 6 August 2026
Tell Me About The Scholarships:
The University of Canterbury (UC) Incoming First-Year Scholarships are designed to support undergraduate entrants beginning their studies in 2027. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, sporting achievement, cultural involvement, and personal resilience. They provide financial assistance to ease study and accommodation costs, helping students focus on their education and personal growth.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- All undergraduate disciplines at UC, including:
- Arts, Fine Arts, Music
- Business & Law
- Engineering & Forestry
- Health & Education
- Sciences
Type:
- Merit- and Need-Based Undergraduate Scholarships | New Zealand
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be enrolling in their first year of an undergraduate degree at UC in 2027.
- Meet academic performance thresholds (high merit).
- Demonstrate leadership, community involvement, or personal achievements.
- In some cases, meet criteria linked to financial need, ethnicity, or region.
- International students are eligible (with separate pathways for those who studied offshore secondary education or at UCIC).
Special categories include:
- Māori and Pacific students.
- Students with financial hardship.
- Students moving away from home to study at UC (accommodation-linked awards).
- Students with leadership potential or extracurricular achievements.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on academic merit, leadership, community involvement, and personal circumstances.
- Applicants can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously.
- Selection is competitive but UC’s layered funding approach increases chances of success.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Domestic and international students enrolling at UC.
Where will the Scholarships be Taken?
- University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.
How Many Awards?
- Multiple scholarships across categories; applicants may receive more than one award.
What is the Benefit of the Scholarships?
Depending on the award, benefits may include:
- Partial or full tuition fee coverage.
- Accommodation support for halls of residence.
- Financial grants to offset living costs.
- Recognition awards for leadership, sports, or academic achievement.
How Long Will the Scholarships Last?
- Typically one year, with some renewable options depending on scholarship type.
Required Documents:
- Completed UC scholarship application form.
- Academic transcripts.
- School references (for secondary school applicants).
- Supporting documents for financial hardship or equity categories.
How to Apply:
- Visit UC’s Scholarships Database to identify eligible awards.
- Prepare required documents (transcripts, references, supporting materials).
- Submit applications online between 11 June – 6 August 2026.
- Apply for all scholarships you are eligible for to maximize funding opportunities.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
