Massey University NZ$10,000 Creative Excellence Scholarships 2026, New Zealand (Fully Funded)

The NZ$10,000 Creative Excellence Scholarships 2026 at Massey University, New Zealand are now open for international students applying to undergraduate creative programs. Offered by the College of Creative Arts in Wellington, this competitive scholarship supports talented students entering selected creative degrees in July 2026 intake.

With only a small number of awards available, this scholarship is designed for highly creative applicants with strong portfolios and artistic vision, making it one of the most selective undergraduate creative scholarships in New Zealand.

The Massey University Creative Excellence Scholarship provides:

Financial Support

• Up to NZ$10,000 tuition fee reduction
• Applied to first-year tuition fees only

Important Notes

• Does not cover living expenses
• Does not include travel or insurance costs
• One-time award (not renewable)

• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree)
• Study Location: Wellington Campus, Massey University, New Zealand
• Intake: July 2026 (Semester 2)
• Number of Awards: 6 scholarships only

The scholarship is available only for first-time international students enrolling in one of the following programs:

• Bachelor of Commercial Music
• Bachelor of Design with Honours
• Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours
• Bachelor of Screen Arts with Honours

These programs reflect Massey University’s strong reputation in creative arts, design, media, and screen production.

The scholarship is open to:

• International students from all countries
• Students applying for their first year of undergraduate study
• Applicants enrolling directly into eligible creative programs

Note: Domestic students and current Massey University students are not eligible.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a new international undergraduate student
• Apply for one of the four eligible creative programs
• Submit a strong creative portfolio
• Provide a 300-word creative statement
• Demonstrate artistic ability and creative potential

There are no strict academic score requirements, as selection is primarily portfolio-based.

Portfolio Requirements

The scholarship is highly competitive and depends heavily on creative submission quality.

Applicants must submit:

• A curated digital portfolio (PDF format preferred)
• Links to creative platforms such as:
  • Vimeo
  • YouTube
  • ArtStation
  • Itch.io

Important guidelines:

• Social media links (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) are not accepted
• File-sharing platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox may be used
• Portfolio must show originality, creativity, and technical skills

The application process is straightforward but highly selective:

Step 1: Prepare Application Materials

• Creative portfolio
• 300-word statement of creative purpose
• Academic documents (for university admission)

Step 2: Submit Application

• Apply through Massey University’s official application system
• Upload portfolio and supporting documents

Step 3: Selection Review

• Applications are assessed based on portfolio strength
• Creative vision and originality are key evaluation factors

Step 4: Final Decision

• Only 6 scholarships are awarded
• Successful applicants are notified before study commencement

Application Deadline

• 15 April 2026
• Program start: July 2026 intake

Why Study at Massey University for Creative Arts?

Massey University’s College of Creative Arts is one of New Zealand’s leading creative institutions, known for its strong industry connections and innovative teaching approach.

Key advantages include:

• Strong focus on practical creative skills
• Access to Wellington’s creative industry ecosystem
• Internationally recognized creative programs
• Portfolio-based admission and funding opportunities
• Exposure to design, film, music, and digital media industries