19 June 2026 at 3:19 pm
34 Vietnamese students awarded New Zealand Schools Scholarships as programme reaches record demand
Thirty-four Vietnamese students will begin their secondary education in New Zealand in 2026 after receiving scholarships through the New Zealand Schools Scholarships (NZSS) programme, as Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) opens applications for its next intake.
Of the 34 recipients, 27 were awarded NZSS scholarships and seven received funding directly from participating New Zealand schools. Since launching in 2019, the NZSS programme has supported more than 100 Vietnamese students from Years 8-10 to study in New Zealand, reinforcing education ties between the two countries.
Scholarships for 2026 are spread across schools in Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury, Hawke’s Bay, Manawatū, Nelson-Tasman, Northland, and Whanganui, offering international students from Viet Nam access to high-quality education across diverse regions.
The latest intake follows strong demand for the programme in Viet Nam. From 90 applications, 57 were fully eligible, resulting in 34 scholarships awarded.
New Zealand Consul-General Scott James said the programme reflects the strength of the bilateral relationship.
“Education has always been a cornerstone of the partnership between New Zealand and Viet Nam. We are proud to see successive generations of talented Vietnamese students embark on their education journeys at New Zealand’s high-quality secondary schools through the NZSS programme,” James said.
NZSS alumni and parents of past scholarship recipients share first-hand insights on studying and living in New Zealand, offering valuable guidance to future students.
ENZ’s Market Manager - Viet Nam, Van Banh, said the demand for New Zealand education among Vietnamese students continues to rise.
“In 2025, approximately 2,200 Vietnamese international students were enrolled in New Zealand, representing a 14 percent increase from the previous year. Secondary education remains a key pathway to study in New Zealand, reflecting the strong trust Vietnamese families place in New Zealand’s education system.”
Promotion of the 2026 round of the NZSS reached record levels. The campaign engaged 55 approved education agents, with webinars attracting up to 141 participants per session. Digital and media activity generated 29 media clippings, more than 3 million reach on social media, and over 61,000 website clicks.
The NZSS website also recorded 43,138 visits between January and March 2026, nearly double the same period in 2025. Direct outreach activities connected with 300 prospective students.
Applications are now open for the second NZSS intake for 2026, running from 15 June to 14 August. The next round will offer 29 scholarships, alongside additional awards funded by participating schools, with unsuccessful NZSS applicants still considered for school-based scholarships.
