The Prime Minister’s Scholarships for Asia (PMSA) and Latin America (PMSLA) are prestigious awards funded by the New Zealand Government. These scholarships, administered by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ), provide New Zealanders with opportunities to engage in transformative learning experiences in Asia and Latin America. Since 2013, the program has enabled thousands of New Zealanders to broaden their horizons through life-changing educational adventures.
Eligibility and Application Process
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. They must also be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents. The scholarships are open to individuals from all walks of life and stages of education, whether they are currently studying or not.
Application Timeline
Applications for the 2024 individual scholarship round open on June 17, 2024, and close on July 19, 2024. Prospective applicants can sign up for updates, attend information sessions, and participate in workshops to better understand the application process and requirements.
What the Scholarships Cover
The scholarships cover a wide range of expenses, including tuition fees for offshore institutions, flights, accommodation, visas, insurance, and a contribution towards living costs. This comprehensive coverage ensures that recipients can focus on their studies and experiences without financial stress.
Types of Programmes
Group Programmes
Group Programmes offer students the chance to explore their academic interests in a global context while traveling as part of a group. These programs are typically organized and administered by educational institutions like the University of Auckland. Successful applications lead to unique learning experiences that foster cultural insights and represent New Zealand on the global stage.
For example, the “Reimagining India Group Programme” allowed University of Auckland students to immerse themselves in Indian culture and academic life. These programs help students form lifelong connections and enhance international collaboration.
Individual Programmes
Individual scholarships allow applicants to pursue opportunities tailored to their personal interests. This includes short-term or semester exchanges, research abroad, internships, postgraduate programs, or other study experiences in Asia or Latin America. Although the application process is competitive, all eligible individuals are encouraged to apply. Information sessions are available to guide applicants through the process.
Te Pūkenga Group Programmes
Te Pūkenga, New Zealand’s Institute of Skills and Technology, offers two specific group programs under the Prime Minister’s Scholarships. These programs are open to enrolled ākonga (students) from Te Pūkenga.
Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia
This program offers a six-week Entrepreneurship and Innovation course at Jinhua Polytechnic in China. Participants engage in award-winning courses, Chinese language classes, site visits, and cultural trips. The program runs from December 10, 2023, to January 21, 2024, and aims to develop participants’ entrepreneurship skills and intercultural competence.
Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Latin America
This program involves a six-week internship in Medellin, Colombia, hosted by The Intern Group. Running from January 13 to February 23, 2024, the internship focuses on developing professional skills and intercultural competence. Participants are matched with host organizations in fields such as entrepreneurship, IT, art, finance, and graphic design. The program includes social and cultural events to enhance the learning experience.
Impact and Alumni Success
Since its inception, the Prime Minister’s Scholarship program has awarded 3685 scholarships, positively impacting many lives. Alumni surveys indicate that 98% of recipients would recommend the program. These scholarships enable students to grow as global citizens, develop intercultural competencies, and enhance their employability.
Alumni stories highlight the transformative nature of these experiences. For instance, Nadia Snegirev, a participant in the 2024 PMSA Reimagining India Study Tour, shared how the program changed her perspective and helped her form lasting connections.
Commitment to Equity
Education New Zealand and its partners are committed to ensuring equity in learning abroad. They strive to make these opportunities accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. Special consideration is given to Māori and Pasifika students, as well as those who have faced historical exclusion or discrimination.
Information Sessions
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend information sessions to learn more about the scholarships and the application process. Upcoming sessions include:
- Education New Zealand Individual Scholarship Round Information Session: June 4, 2024, 4:00-5:00pm NZT
- The Intern Group International Internships Info Session: June 12, 2024, 9:00-10:00am NZT
- 360 International Prime Minister’s Scholarship Individual Programme Opportunities Info Session: June 20, 2024, 1:30-2:30pm NZT
- 360 International Prime Minister’s Scholarship Individual Programme Opportunities Info Session: June 21, 2024, 12:00-1:00pm NZT
The Prime Minister’s Scholarships for Asia and Latin America provide unparalleled opportunities for New Zealanders to expand their horizons. These scholarships foster global citizenship, cultural understanding, and academic excellence. Whether through group or individual programs, participants gain invaluable experiences that shape their futures and strengthen New Zealand’s connections with Asia and Latin America.
For more information and to apply, visit the Prime Minister’s Scholarship website and attend upcoming information sessions. Embrace this chance to see the world through a new lens and take your learning journey beyond borders.
