New Zealand aid program announces Commonwealth Scholarships for Sri Lanka

The New Zealand Government has announced its fresh round of Commonwealth Scholarships for Sri Lankan students who wish to commence programs of study at New Zealand academic institutions in 2018. The application process opened on 15 February and closes on 30 March. 

“New Zealand and Sri Lanka share an important and growing relationship, which is built on strong people-to-people links. Scholarships to attend New Zealand universities play an important role in reinforcing these links and contributing to Sri Lanka’s overall development. I am very pleased to confirm that New Zealand will offer new scholarships to Sri Lankan students this year too,” said Suzannah Jessep, the Acting New Zealand High Commissioner to Sri Lanka.

“Scholarship recipients will get to experience New Zealand’s world-class education system which encourages independent and analytical thinking. The academic and practical skills they will gain will equip them to compete in any marketplace worldwide, and to contribute to the development of their home countries,” added John Laxon, Education New Zealand’s Regional Director for South and South East Asia and Middle East.

The scholarships are available for Masters Degree (1-2 years) and PhD (3-4 years) programs and are tenable at one of New Zealand’s eight world-class universities. All eight of New Zealand’s universities are ranked in the top 3% globally by QS World University Rankings. 

These scholarships are valid for a range of subjects around the themes of renewable energy, agriculture development, disaster risk management, education and public/private sector management. This is intended to promote study of subjects that will help Sri Lanka’s social, economic or political needs. Scholars are, therefore, required to return home for at least two years after finishing their studies to ensure Sri Lanka benefits from the knowledge acquired.

To be considered for these prestigious awards, scholars need to have a confirmed admission offer and send in their paper-based application to the designated national agency in Sri Lanka for the operation of Commonwealth Scholarships on or before 30 March.

The financial support offered through these scholarships include full tuition costs, a fortnightly living allowance, an establishment allowance, medical and travel insurance, travel to and from your home country at the start and end of your scholarship, home leave or reunion travel for some students, and assistance with research and thesis costs for most postgraduate research students.

Detailed information, including where to apply and the full range of eligible subjects, can be accessed at: www.mfat.govt.nz/scholarships.