The Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 offers international students a fantastic chance to study advanced research at one of the best universities in New Zealand. Tuition, living expenses, and support for research activities are all covered by this fully funded scholarship.
- Host Country: New Zealand
- Host University: Wellington University
- Study Level: PhD Programs
- Duration:3 years
- Eligibility: International students
Fully Funded Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 Funding Packages
Each awardee receives:
- $32,000 annual stipend to support living expenses.
- Full coverage of tuition fees for up to three years.
- An opportunity to work under the guidance of globally recognized supervisors.
This combination makes it one of the most generous PhD funding opportunities in New Zealand, designed to attract the brightest minds worldwide.[Apply: EIT Urban Mobility Master School & Fellowship 2026 ]
Fully Funded Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 Duration
The Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 is typically awarded for a duration of three years, which aligns with the standard timeframe for completing a PhD at the university.
PhD Program Duration:
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3 years (with the possibility of an extension, subject to approval and progress).
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Extension: In some cases, students can apply for an extension of up to 6 months if additional time is needed to complete research and dissertation requirements.
Additional Information:
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The scholarship covers the full 3-year duration, including tuition fees and a living stipend to support students throughout their research period.
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If a student requires more time due to exceptional circumstances or research delays, this can be negotiated with the university, but the scholarship funding is generally provided for 3 years.
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Who are Eligible to Apply Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026
To apply for the Wellington Doctoral Scholarship, you must:
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- Be a graduate of any university (within or outside New Zealand).
- Intend to enrol full-time in a PhD at Victoria University of Wellington or already be within the first six months of your PhD enrolment.
- Show a strong academic record, excellent references, or evidence of high-quality research potential (such as publications).
- Align your research interests with those of the University’s schools, institutes, or centres.
Academic staff employed at Victoria University of Wellington or other universities are not eligible.
Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 Documents Checklist
To apply for the Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 as an international student, you will need to submit the following documents as part of your application:
Documents Checklist:
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Online Application Form
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Complete the online application form available on the Wellington University website for the PhD scholarship.
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CV/Resume
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Include a comprehensive CV or resume that outlines your academic qualifications, research experience, skills, and any relevant work experience.
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Academic Transcripts
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Official academic transcripts from all institutions where you completed your previous studies, particularly your Master’s degree or equivalent qualifications.
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Master’s Degree Certificate
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A certified copy of your Master’s degree certificate (if applicable) or proof of expected graduation if you are still in the final stages of your program.
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Research Proposal
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A research proposal (typically 1,500–2,000 words) that outlines your intended PhD project, research questions, methodology, and how your research fits within the university’s strengths or research themes.
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Recommendation Letters
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At least two academic recommendation letters from professors, supervisors, or academic mentors who are familiar with your research capabilities and academic performance.
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Proof of English Proficiency
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IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized English proficiency test results, unless you have completed a degree in English. The university typically requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no individual score below 6.0) or an equivalent TOEFL score.
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Passport Copy
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A scanned copy of your passport or national ID for identification purposes.
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Statement of Purpose (Optional)
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A Statement of Purpose that briefly explains your reasons for applying to the PhD program, how it fits with your career goals, and why you are interested in research at Wellington University.
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Previous Research Work (Optional)
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If applicable, submit any previous research papers, publications, or projects that demonstrate your research experience or achievements.
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Proof of Funding (for non-sponsored applicants)
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If you are not applying for the PhD scholarship, you may need to provide evidence of funding to cover living expenses, such as bank statements or proof of scholarship funding from other sources.
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Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026 Application Timeline
For the Class of 2026 intake, the final closing date is 1 November 2025 (4:30 PM NZT). Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted, so plan ahead!
How to Apply Wellington University PhD Scholarship 2026
Application Link: https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/scholarships/current/wellington-doctoral-scholarships