How to apply for scholarships, Me pēhea te tono mō te karahipi
Updated 24 Mar 2024
Found a scholarship you might qualify for?
Check the application process and closing datesHihiratia te hātepe tono me ngā rā kati,
Read all the information about each scholarship you’re applying for. Make a list of everything you need to provide with each application, and when you have to submit it.
Things you might need to sort out are:
- downloading or printing forms
- a letter from your school
- record of achievement (qualifications)
- identity documents, like a birth certificate or passport
- references or referees
- getting an approved person to certify the copies of your documents are real.
If you need referees, contact them earlyKi te hiahia kaitautoko, kia wawe atu te whakapā,
Referees are people who know you well and will support your scholarship application in writing or in a conversation. The application form might ask for a certain type of person, like a teacher or
Your referees need time to prepare and respond – a week is ideal. Ask them if they’re happy to support your application. Send them a link to the scholarship you’re applying for, so they can write or talk about your most relevant strengths.
Get certified copies of documentsMe tiki tārua whakamana o ngā tuhinga,
A certified copy of a document has been checked and signed by someone trustworthy to say it’s real. You’ll probably need certified copies of identity documents for your application.
The scholarship information will say who can certify your documents. It could be someone like a:
- teacher
kaumātua - minister of religion
- police officer
- registered medical professional
- solicitor
- Justice of the Peace (JP).
Certifiers don’t charge you any money. You just photocopy your documents, then take the originals and photocopies to the certifying person.
Find a Justice of the Peace – Royal Federation of NZ Justices’ Associations
Do your application carefullyKia āta whakaoti i tō tono,
Give yourself the best chance by making a good impression.
- Find out about the organisation giving the scholarship. Write each application so it’s clear why you’re the right person to support the organisation’s goals.
- Complete all of the forms and check your spelling.
- Attach all documents in the order they’re requested.
- Check you’ve completed all sections, signed the application and provided everything they asked for.
- Make sure it gets there by the closing date. If you’re posting your application, allow a week for it to get there or send it by courier.