The University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau, runs a competitive Doctoral Scholarship scheme for candidates offered a place on one of its doctoral programmes. It is open across disciplines, to domestic and international applicants, and pays a tax-free stipend plus tuition fees, making it a fully funded route to a PhD in New Zealand.
Scholarships are awarded in rounds through the year. The next deadline is 1 November 2026, with offers made by 1 February 2027. Domestic candidates then enrol from March 2027 and international candidates from April 2027. If you miss this one, the following rounds close on 1 February, 1 May and 1 August 2027.
What the scholarship covers
In 2026 the scholarship pays a tax-free stipend of NZ$35,468 a year, adjusted each January in line with inflation, for up to 42 months full-time equivalent. Tuition fees are covered for the same period, along with the compulsory single student health insurance charge where it applies. The length of the stipend varies by doctoral programme, so check the scholarship terms for the detail that applies to you.
Guaranteed scholarships for Māori and Pacific applicants
Māori and Pacific applicants with a grade point average of 7.0 or above on a New Zealand university qualifying programme are guaranteed a scholarship once they are offered a place on a doctoral programme. Each has its own set of terms on the University website.
Dementia and brain research at Auckland
Each faculty, large research institute and University research centre sets its own scholarship priorities and selection approach. For dementia and neurodegeneration researchers, the most relevant are the Centre for Brain Research, the Centre for Co-Created Ageing Research (CCREATE-AGE) and the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, all of which list their opportunities and selection strategies online. Selection committees also weigh the University’s equity, diversity and inclusion goals.
How to apply
There is no separate application form. When you apply for a doctoral programme you confirm whether you want to be considered for the scholarship, and anyone offered a place is then assessed in the next round. Do not enrol before you have heard the outcome. You can still be considered if you are finishing your qualifying degree or waiting on final grades, though any offer may be conditional. International students who need proof of funding for a visa can request a letter through Student Services Online.
Securing a place comes first, so it pays to approach potential supervisors early. Our blogs on assessing and approaching a new lab and making your PhD application stand out are a good place to start. Read the full terms, round dates and faculty strategies on the University of Auckland website.
Visit funding web page
(https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-types/postgraduate-scholarships/doctoral-scholarships.html)