Lincoln University is New Zealand’s only land-based university. It sits on the South Island, close to Christchurch. Founded in 1878, it is one of the oldest and most regarded public universities in the country. It is known for its excellent research in agriculture, environmental science, business, landscape architecture, and sustainability. Lincoln University is well known worldwide. It is in the Top 1% of universities worldwide for Agriculture and Forestry and in the Top 400 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It also does very well in the Times Higher Education (THE) subject rankings for environmental and sustainability studies.
https://www.lincoln.ac.nz/?nosplash=I
Admissions Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
Recognised secondary school qualification (A-Levels, IB Diploma, or national equivalent).
Minimum academic average of 70–75 %, depending on program.
Some specialised degrees, such as Landscape Architecture and Agricultural Science, may require a portfolio or background in science subjects.
Postgraduate Admission
Recognised Bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA 3.0 / 4.0 or equivalent).
For professional programs (e.g., an MBA), at least 2 years of relevant work experience may be required.
A statement of purpose and academic references are recommended.
PhD Admission
Master’s degree with First-Class or Upper Second-Class Honours (or equivalent research qualification).
Submission of a detailed research proposal aligned with one of Lincoln’s key research themes.
Applicants must contact and confirm a supervisor before applying.
Evidence of previous research or publications will strengthen the application.
English Language Requirements
Undergraduate Programs
IELTS (Academic): Overall 6.0 with no band below 5.5
TOEFL iBT: 80 overall (min. 19 in writing)
PTE Academic: 58 overall
Postgraduate Programs
IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 90 overall (min. 20 in writing)
PTE Academic: 61 overall
PhD Programs
IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 90 overall
PTE Academic: 61 overall
Tuition Fees for International Students (Per Year)
Undergraduate Programs
- Bachelor of Agricultural Science – NZD 36,000
- Bachelor of Environmental Management – NZD 35,000
- Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (Hons) – NZD 38,000
- Bachelor of Commerce (Agribusiness / Finance) – NZD 33,000
- Bachelor of Science (Environmental / Food Science) – NZD 35,500
- Bachelor of Tourism Management – NZD 32,000
Postgraduate Programs
- Master of Business (Agri-Commerce / Finance) – NZD 41,000
- Master of Science (Environmental Management) – NZD 39,000
- Master of Agricultural Science – NZD 38,500
- Master of Landscape Architecture – NZD 40,000
- Master of Tourism Management – NZD 34,000
PhD Programs
- All PhD disciplines – NZD 7,800 – 9,000 per year (same for domestic and international students).
Cost of Living in Christchurch
| Accommodation | NZD 700 – 1,200 per month |
| Food & Utilities | NZD 400 – 600 per month |
| Transportation | NZD 100 – 150 per month |
| Average Annual Cost | NZD 20,000 – 25,000  |
Undergraduate Scholarships
International Undergraduate Scholarship at Lincoln University
Value:
You could get up to 10,000 New Zealand Dollars to help pay for your first year of school.
Given to someone as a fee credit and put right into their account during their first year of school.
Who can apply:
New international students who want to study full-time for their first degree at Lincoln University are welcome.
One of the most recent secondary or foundation-level certificates must have had an average of at least 80% (B+ or higher).
Those who wish to attend the school must meet the university’s academic and English-language requirements.
The grant is not available to students who are moving from another New Zealand school.
How to Apply:
Students are automatically considered for this scholarship if they meet the standards when they apply to the school. They don’t need to fill out an extra form.
Applicants must ensure they submit their legal transcripts and the rest of their application before the deadline.
The official email or letter of offer is how offers are sent.
Due date:
March (to get in for July)
October (for the February start date)
To get institutional help, they must keep doing well in their classes to keep getting it.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Performance
Worth:
Up to NZD 15,000 off the whole cost of school.
It is used as a partial fee discount for the first year of school. If the student does well, it may be possible to renew it for later years.
Eligibility:
You can apply if you are an international student seeking to study full-time at Lincoln University.
They need to show that they did really well in school, generally by getting grades of A or 85% or higher.
Those who want to be candidates must demonstrate leadership skills by volunteering, being a student star, or excelling in sports, the arts, or social projects outside of school.
When students apply, they must have an offer from Lincoln University, whether it’s open or with conditions.
How to apply:
Needs a separate scholarship application to be submitted through the online scholarship portal at Lincoln University.
Those who want to apply must provide:
School transcripts and awards
A personal statement or statement of purpose that talks about what you’ve done, how you’ve led others, and your goals for the future.
A letter or two of reference from a teacher, mentor, or community leader.
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Due date:
Some programs have different deadlines, but most are in April (for the July intake) and November (for the February entry).
Conditions:
As long as they hold the award, the winner must remain in school full-time and maintain a good GPA.
The gift can only be used to pay for school. It can’t be put off or transferred to another school or program.
Students who get funding are told to represent Lincoln University by attending events for students or the community that align with the school’s values.
Postgraduate Scholarships
Lincoln University International Postgraduate Scholarship
Value:
Provides up to NZD 10,000 as a tuition fee discount, applied toward the first year of postgraduate study.
Eligibility:
Open to new international students enrolling in a full-time postgraduate program (taught or research) at Lincoln University.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average.
Candidates should demonstrate substantial academic merit, a clear interest in research or professional development, and the motivation to contribute to their field.
Students must meet Lincoln University’s academic and English language entry requirements for postgraduate admission.
Application Process:
No separate scholarship application is required. All eligible students are automatically considered upon applying for admission to a postgraduate program.
Applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application package (including transcripts and references) before the deadline to ensure timely consideration.
Selection Criteria:
Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, potential for postgraduate success, and alignment with Lincoln’s teaching and research priorities.
2. Master’s by Research Scholarship
Value:
A full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the master’s program.
An annual living stipend of NZD 21,000 to assist with accommodation, research, and living expenses.
Eligibility:
Applicants must have completed an undergraduate or honours degree with excellent academic performance (typically a GPA equivalent to a B+ or higher).
Candidates must submit a well-developed research proposal aligned with one of Lincoln’s key research areas (e.g., environmental management, agribusiness, landscape architecture, or food science).
A confirmed research supervisor at Lincoln University is required prior to applying.
Applicants must satisfy the university’s English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent).
Application Process:
Applications are submitted online through the Lincoln University Scholarship Portal.
Required documents include:
Official academic transcripts and degree certificates
Research proposal (1,000–1,500 words)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Two academic references
Confirmation of supervision from a Lincoln faculty member
Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact a potential supervisor before applying.
Deadline:
Offered twice yearly, with closing dates in March and October.
Selection Criteria:
Based on academic excellence, research potential, and the quality of the research proposal.
Preference is given to projects that align with Lincoln’s strategic research themes and contribute to national or international development goals.
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PhD and Doctoral Scholarships
Value
A full tuition fee waiver covering the entire duration of the PhD program (up to three years).
An annual living stipend of NZD 30,000 to support accommodation, research materials, and living costs.
Access to university research facilities, supervision by leading academics, and opportunities for publication and conference participation.
Eligibility
Hold a Master’s degree (with first-class or upper second-class honours), or an equivalent qualification demonstrating strong academic performance.
Show proven research potential through previous thesis work, publications, or professional research experience.
Possess the academic capability and commitment to complete a full-time PhD program within three years.
Meet Lincoln University’s PhD entry and English language requirements, typically:
IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT: 90 overall
PTE Academic: 61 overall
Both domestic and international students are eligible to apply.
Application Process
Identify a Research Area and Supervisor:
 Applicants should first explore Lincoln University’s research focus areas and contact a potential academic supervisor whose expertise aligns with their research interests. Supervisor confirmation is required before submitting the scholarship application.
Prepare the Required Documents:
A detailed research proposal (1,500–2,000 words) outlining research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements, publications, and research experience.
Two academic reference letters from supervisors or faculty members familiar with the applicant’s work.
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
Submit the Application:
 Applications must be completed through the Lincoln University Scholarship Portal, along with the official PhD application.
Assessment and Selection:
 Applications are reviewed by the University’s Research and Postgraduate Committee. Selection is based on academic merit, research capability, alignment with Lincoln’s strategic research areas, and potential for impact.
Deadline
The Lincoln Doctoral Scholarship has two main application rounds each year:
March (for July intake)
October (for February intake)
Late or incomplete applications are not accepted, so candidates are advised to begin the process well in advance to secure supervisor approval and finalize documentation.
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