New Zealand has some great news for students looking to study abroad from 2026. You can now apply for undergraduate Master’s and PhD programs at top universities in New Zealand and guess what? You don’t even need to provide IELTS. Yes, you can Study in New Zealand Without IELTS. These institutes are highly ranked and offer degrees in many subjects that are respected worldwide. The education style follows the UK system so you know the quality is good. Tuition costs are lower than in the US plus it’s safe and welcoming there. New Zealand’s universities are known around the world making it a popular pick for international students. When you’re not studying you can explore beautiful nature and enjoy an active lifestyle.
Key Points
- No IELTS Needed Open for applications from 2026.
- Programs Available Bachelor’s Master’s and PhD degrees.
- Cheaper Fees Costs less than studying in the US.
- Quality Education UK-style system with top-ranked schools.
- Great Lifestyle Safe friendly and packed with outdoor adventures.
- Respected Degrees Choose from many fields to build your future.
Also Check: Study in Europe Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
Study in New Zealand Without IELTS Summary
| Study In | New Zealand |
| Scholarships For | Bachelor, Master, PhD |
| Eligible For | International Students |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Deadline | Each Scholarship Has Its own Deadline |
List of New Zealand Scholarships Without IELTS
1. Lincoln University Scholarship
Lincoln University ranks 387th in the world You can study without IELTS for 2026. Known for high foreign student percentage and top scores in agriculture and forestry
Key Points
- Ranked 387th globally
- No IELTS needed
- High scores in agriculture and forestry
Apply Link: https://www.lincoln.ac.nz/study/scholarships/international-scholarships
2. University of Auckland Scholarships
University of Auckland ranks 81st in the world and first in New Zealand. It allows students to study without IELTS at Auckland University which is renowned for subjects like archaeology education and nursing
Key Points
- Ranked 81st globally
- No IELTS required for 2026
- Highly regarded for various subjects
Apply Link: https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/scholarships-and-awards.html
3. Auckland University of Technology Scholarship
AUT is in Auckland and ranks third in New Zealand. You can study without IELTS for 2026. The Scholarships are fully funded and provide full coverage to your studies in NZ.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition fees covered
- Free airfare to Auckland
- Basic accommodation costs
- Health and medical insurance
- Special research grants
Apply Link: https://www.aut.ac.nz/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships-and-awards-at-aut
4. University of Canterbury Scholarship
Located in Christchurch University of Canterbury ranks 258th in the world. You can study without IELTS for higher degrees in 2026.
Key Points
- Ranked 258th globally
- No IELTS required for higher degrees
Also See: Study in Hong Kong Without IELTS 2026 Scholarships | Fully Funded
5. University of Otago Scholarship
University of Otago ranks 184th in the world Offers scholarships for doctoral research including an annual stipend of 30696 and tuition fee waivers for up to three years.
Key Points
- Ranked 184th globally
- Annual stipend of 30696
- Tuition fee waivers for up to three years
- No IELTS required for 2026
Apply Link: https://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships/university-of-otago-doctoral-scholarship
6. Victoria University of Wellington Scholarship
Victoria University of Wellington ranks third in New Zealand and 223rd in the world Scholarships for postgraduates are worth 10000 and 5000 for master’s candidates No IELTS required for 2026/28
Key Points
- Ranked 223rd globally
- 10000 for postgraduates
- 5000 for master’s candidates
- No IELTS required
Apply Link: https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/scholarships/current/tongarewa-international-scholarship
7. University of Waikato Scholarship
University of Waikato is in Hamilton and ranks 375th in the world. You can study without IELTS for 2026 with the help of Scholarships including living allowance of 27500 per year domestic tuition fees and student services levy
Key Points
- Living allowance of 27500 annually
- Domestic tuition fees covered
- Student Services Levy covered
Apply Link: New Zealand University of Waikato International Scholarships
List of New Zealand Universities Without IELTS
- Unitec Institute of Technology
- University of Otago
- University of Canterbury
- Lincoln University
- Southern Institute of Technology
- University of Auckland
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Waikato
- Massey University
- Auckland University of Technology
How to Study In New Zealand Without IELTS
University-Specific Requirements
- Some universities might give exemptions if you studied in English-speaking schools or if you pass their own language test
Alternative English Proficiency Tests
- Some universities accept tests like TOEFL PTE Academic and Cambridge English exams. Check with your chosen university
Prepare Required Documents
- Get your academic transcripts proof of studying in English and recommendation letters
Apply to University
- Send your application to the university and make sure you meet all English proficiency requirements
English Language Preparation Courses
- Join a pre-sessional English course at a New Zealand university to meet language needs
Talk to Universities
- Contact the universities you’re interested in to know their specific requirements and alternative options
Get a Student Visa
- After getting an offer from the university apply for a student visa through Immigration New Zealand with all needed documents


