Great news for Nigerian students aiming to study abroad! The University of Auckland in New Zealand is offering the Top Achiever Scholarship 2025 to reward exceptional students with outstanding academic records and leadership skills. This scholarship is a fantastic chance for young Nigerians to kickstart their university journey at one of New Zealand’s top universities. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting opportunity.
What is the Top Achiever Scholarship?
The University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship was established in 2016 to celebrate students who excel in academics and show remarkable achievements in sports, arts, culture, or leadership. It is funded by Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, and aims to provide financial support and a memorable student experience through university accommodation.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship, valued at up to $25,000, includes the following:
- One year of catered accommodation in a University of Auckland Hall of Residence. Each hall provides your own room, meals, various activities, events, academic mentoring, and pastoral care to ensure you settle in comfortably.
- $5,000 cash paid in two instalments during the first two semesters of study to help cover other expenses.
- Free membership to the University Recreation facilities on the City Campus, giving you access to fitness and leisure activities.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Top Achiever Scholarship, you must meet these requirements:
- Be enrolled in your final year at a New Zealand secondary school, kura, or a recognized pathway program like the Tertiary Foundation Certificate or Certificate in Health Sciences.
- Plan to enroll full-time in an undergraduate degree at the University of Auckland in 2026, or take a gap year in 2026 and enroll in 2027.
- Māori or Pacific students intending to enroll in a Certificate in Health Sciences followed by a degree at the University of Auckland are also eligible.
- Achieve a minimum academic score: NCEA rank score of at least 270, CIE rank score of at least 330, or IB score of at least 36.
- Live in a University of Auckland Hall of Residence (unless you have an approved medical exemption).
- Demonstrate exceptional academic performance and achievements in sports, arts, culture, or leadership.
The university also considers personal circumstances, such as:
- Being the first in your family to attend university.
- Coming from a refugee background.
- Having a disability.
- Having care responsibilities for family (whānau).
- Living in a rural area.
- Demonstrating financial need.
How to Apply
Ready to apply? Follow these steps:
- Apply for admission to at least one undergraduate program at the University of Auckland. Visit the University of Auckland application page to get started.
- Read the regulations carefully to confirm your eligibility. You can find the regulations here.
- Complete the online application form on the University of Auckland scholarship portal. Click the “Apply now” button here.
- Gather evidence of your academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, and leadership qualities. This could include your NCEA Level 2 or 3 Excellence credits, CIE or IB scores, or proof of participation in competitions, leadership roles, or community honors.
- Submit your application by the deadline, which is midnight on 13 August 2025. Ensure all sections of the form are complete, including any required references or endorsements.
- Apply for accommodation at a University of Auckland Hall of Residence. Your scholarship application will only be considered if you’ve also applied for accommodation.
Important Dates
- Application Opening Date: 21 May 2025
- Application Closing Date: 13 August 2025
- Outcome Notification: Approximately eight weeks after the closing date
Additional Information
- Up to 250 scholarships are available each year.
- The scholarship is for one year, covering your first year of study.
- To receive the second instalment of the $5,000 and continue in accommodation, you must achieve a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 6.00 in your first semester.
- If you’re offered a scholarship, you’ll receive a link to an online acceptance form with a deadline to confirm your acceptance and indicate your study start (Semester One or Two 2026).
- You may be considered for other scholarships, such as the University of Auckland 140th Anniversary Academic Scholarship or the Kupenga Rau Māori and Pacific Scholarship, even if you applied for the Top Achiever Scholarship.
- If you withdraw from the university or transfer to another institution without completing at least four consecutive semesters, you may need to repay the scholarship funds.
- For medical exemptions from the accommodation requirement, contact the Scholarships Office at scholarships@auckland.ac.nz.
- If your scholarship application is unsuccessful and you no longer wish to stay in accommodation, you can withdraw your accommodation offer by emailing accom@auckland.ac.nz.
Why Choose the University of Auckland?
Founded in 1883, the University of Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and highest-ranked university, with over 40,000 students. It is globally recognized, ranking 81st in the QS World University Rankings 2020 and the only New Zealand university in the top 100. Studying here offers Nigerian students a chance to gain a world-class education, build lifelong connections, and enjoy a vibrant campus life.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start early to gather all required documents and references.
- Highlight your unique achievements, whether in academics, sports, arts, or community leadership.
- Be honest and accurate in your application, as the university verifies information with your school or referees.
- Check the scholarship form in advance to understand what’s needed and avoid technical issues. If you encounter problems, clear your browser cache or contact the Student Support Team via AskAuckland.
Don’t Miss Out!
The Top Achiever Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for Nigerian students to study at a top university with financial support and a supportive living environment. Don’t wait until the last minute—start preparing your application now! For more details, visit the University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship page.
If you have questions, contact the University of Auckland Student Support Team through AskAuckland or email scholarships@auckland.ac.nz. For urgent inquiries about scholarships closing within three days, mark your email as urgent.
Seize this chance to shine and take your first step toward a bright future at the University of Auckland