International Study Grant

Having international teachers in primary and early childhood education in New Zealand is valuable as it brings diverse cultural perspectives and experiences that enrich the learning environment. International teachers introduce children to a broader worldview, fostering early appreciation for cultural diversity and inclusivity. This helps prepare young learners for a globalized society and builds respect for different traditions and ways of thinking. Moreover, these teachers can help bridge cultural gaps, support immigrant families, and provide unique insights that align with New Zealand’s bicultural foundations and multicultural communities, enhancing the educational experience for all children.

The grants support Te Rito Maioha’s commitment to equity and growing a diverse and culturally responsive teaching workforce by reducing the socio-economic barriers that may prevent some international applicants from studying to gain an initial teacher education qualification in New Zealand.

The grants will contribute $6,500 towards study fees for the full duration of one of following programmes:

• Graduate Diploma of Teaching (ECE) (one year)
• Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Primary) (one year)

These are merit-based grants and will be awarded competitively to new international students based on equity, merit and commitment to the teaching profession in New Zealand.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Have a minimum B+ GPA.
• be living in New Zealand when they are undertaking their study.

To apply applicants must:

• Provide a statement of no more than 300 words outlining why they are a strong candidate and should be considered for a grant (see details below)
• Have received an offer to study from Te Rito Maioha.
• Hold a current passport and relevant visa.
• Intend to begin full-time study in the semester immediately following their successful application.

On-going eligibility is conditional on the receipt of evidence of:

• Residing in New Zealand for the entire tenure of the grant.
• Maintaining international student status within Te Rito Maioha’s Student Administration system during the entire tenure of the grant. Any changes in status will result in the student being required to refund grant being fully or partly to Te Rito Maioha.
• Satisfactory academic progress.

Selection Process

Applicants will be considered and recommended by a committee led and organised by Dr Rosina Merry, Director Teaching, Learning and Research. The Chief Executive will make the final decision.

Successful applicants will receive a grant offer valid for 14 days. Offers must be accepted by the date indicated or the offer will lapse and no longer be valid.

The following documents must support your scholarship application:

1. A personal statement

The grant application must be supported by a personal statement by the applicant, not exceeding 300 words, outlining:

• The applicant’s goals for their teaching career.
• Their commitment to the teaching profession in New Zealand.
• Their personal attributes, achievements, and strengths that would make them an outstanding teacher or a positive contributor to their community.

• Why the applicant wishes to study teaching with Te Rito Maioha in New Zealand.
  
  2. Evidence of GPA

• Transcript showing GPA, or
• Letter from awarding institution confirming GPA

Applications close on:

• 11 May 2026 for programmes beginning in Semester Two 2026.
• 23 November 2026 for programmes beginning in Semester One 2027.

To be considered, the following must be received by 5pm on the closing date:

• Complete the online scholarship application form
• Provide all supporting documents including references, endorsements and IRD statements.
• Complete an application to study in the intended programme.
  Apply via the Apply Now button on the navigation bar.

Note: Late or partially completed applications will not be considered for a scholarship.

• This grant cannot be deferred to a later semester or year. Applicants who wish to delay their study to a later semester or year may re-apply for the grant.

• During their study, recipients of Te Rito Maioha Scholarships are expected to:
  • show outstanding commitment to their study
  • contribute to their ECE centres, schools and community
  • act as ambassadors for Te Rito Maioha and participate in appropriate events or marketing if requested.
    
    

• After graduation, grants recipients are expected to continue to make a positive contribution to the education sector and their community.

• At the discretion of the Chief Executive, the application of the terms and conditions of the grant may be modified in special circumstances or to avoid hardship to any candidate for the grant.