Massey University Doctoral Scholarship: NZ$90,000 plus Fees for Doctoral Study in New Zealand
For prospective researchers considering doctoral study in New Zealand, living and research costs need early planning. The Massey University Doctoral Scholarship supports high-achieving doctoral candidates, including international students, with a total value of up to NZ$90,000 plus fees.[1][2]
When the official Massey page was checked, applications were listed as opening on 1 August 2026 and closing on 1 October 2026 for tenure in the following year.[1][2] This is a competitive scholarship, so admission, research readiness, and academic record should be prepared together.
What does the scholarship support?
For full-time candidates, Massey’s regulations state a NZ$30,000 annual stipend plus payment of tuition and non-tuition fees for up to 36 months. Part-time candidates may receive an NZ$18,000 annual stipend and payment of fees for up to 60 months.[2]
Tuition fees are paid at the domestic rate for the doctoral course only. Additional coursework undertaken during candidature is not covered.[2] Medical and travel insurance for international students are also excluded, so these costs should remain in a personal funding plan.[2]
Who can apply?
The scholarship is open to New Zealand and international students undertaking a PhD or professional doctorate at Massey University, including full-time and part-time candidates.[2] By the application closing date, applicants need a conditional or unconditional offer for a Massey doctoral programme, or need to be within the first 12 months of their doctoral enrolment.[1][2]
Massey lists a GPA of 7.0 or above as an eligibility criterion; the regulations add that consideration will normally be given to a grade average of A- or equivalent.[1][2] Alongside academic achievement, selection considers how the proposed research aligns with the strategic priorities of the University, College, and prospective supervisor.[1][2]
Why do a supervisor and research proposal matter?
A doctorate is not simply a matter of choosing a course from a list. At Massey, prospective students can explore staff expertise to identify a supervisor and follow the Graduate Research School’s guidance for PhD or professional-doctorate applications.[3]
Because strategic alignment is part of the assessment, start with a proposal that explains the research problem, early method, field relevance, and fit with a prospective supervisor. Use the time before the deadline to seek academic feedback and complete admission documents. Massey advises allowing a minimum of four weeks for admission applications to be processed.[1]
Conditions while holding the scholarship
Recipients must be based in New Zealand for the tenure of the scholarship.[2] Full-time recipients are expected to undertake 40–50 hours of study weekly and may work part-time up to 500 hours annually; part-time recipients are expected to study 20–30 hours weekly and may work up to 1,000 hours annually.[2]
The scholarship may be reviewed, terminated, or suspended when academic progress is unsatisfactory or University rules are breached.[2] It is best understood as support for a realistic research plan, not simply a funding source.
RIM Education can help you plan postgraduate study overseas, review your document timeline, and prepare your application pathway. Contact RIM Education to discuss your plans.
Important: Scholarship value, application dates, eligibility, covered fees, New Zealand residency conditions, and visa rules can change. Always confirm the current position on Massey’s official pages and regulations, and in your letter of offer, before making academic or financial commitments.[1][2]
Sources
[1] Massey University Doctoral Scholarship