Funded by the New Zealand Government and administered by Education New Zealand, the New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS), are a significant educational opportunity.
The scholarships provide financial support for international students undertaking doctoral degrees by research in New Zealand universities.

Eligibility
To be eligible for a scholarship students must:
•Be international students
•Please note that citizens of Fiji may not apply for the NZIDRS until further notice.
•Hold an ‘A’ average or equivalent in their studies to date
•Meet the requirements for direct entry into a research based doctoral degree programme at a New Zealand university. (Please note, this will include proof of English Language proficiency.)
•Provide: An Educational Credential Evaluation (ECE) Certificate. See ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ for further information including contact details for ECE and exceptions.
•Provide evidence that they have been in contact with the relevant department of their chosen institution and discussed their proposed research, research interests and the availability of appropriate supervision.
•Hold one of the following English language test scores, achieved no longer than two (2) years prior to the time of application:
•An IELTS Academic Test with an overall score of at least 6.5 with no band less than 6; or
•A TOEFL test score of at least 575, including a score of 4.5 in the Test of Written English; or
•A score of 233 in the Computer based TOEFL, including an Essay Writing score of 4.5; or
•An overall score of 100 in the Internet based TOEFL; or
•Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) – Grade B;
•Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) – Grade C.

Selection Process
A selection committee of senior academics, appointed by Education New Zealand, will consider applications. Applications will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
•The applicant has a record of sustained academic excellence, particularly in the chosen field of study, as supported by academic transcripts and letters of reference.
•The applicant has a well-defined research programme or research interests, and wishes to study at a New Zealand university with the expertise and resources to support that research.
•The applicant meets all eligibility requirements with appropriate supporting documentation.
•All prospective candidates must have received final confirmed grades for their qualifying degree in order for their application to be considered.
•Prospective candidates who have already commenced their Doctorate in New Zealand, must be within the first 6 months of PhD enrolment as at the application close date.
•Prospective candidates who have completed more than 6 months of PhD enrolment at the application close date will not be considered.
•Incomplete applications and electronically submitted applications will not be considered under any circumstances. This is non-negotiable.
Scholarship Application Deadline: 15 July 2011
Further Scholarship Information and Application