What the scholarship covers

The programme supports a Bachelor of Arts: New Zealand Sign Language (English interpreting) from Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

This scholarship provides:

• $3,000 for each year of study (paid to you on the condition that you pass)
• one-off travel and accommodation assistance to a maximum of $1,500 on top of the scholarship payment (paid to you) if you have had to relocate to Auckland to attend the course.

Priority for some applicants

We will give priority to applicants who:

• demonstrate proficiency (NCEA level 1 equivalent or higher) in te reo Māori, a Pasifika language, or
• a spoken language in addition to English that is widely used by children who attend early childhood centres and schools in New Zealand.

You will need to submit evidence of language proficiency. We will accept:

• formal qualifications
• written references from a tertiary institution, a kaumātua or a community leader of your language.

How to apply

You should apply for the scholarship at the same time as applying for your university course. Apply using our online application form.

Apply for a learning support scholarship – Taku Education

Your application must include:

• your resume/CV
• a cover letter outlining:
  • why you want to become a qualified NZSL interpreter
  • your strengths and experience, personal and professional, that will help you to become an effective NZSL interpreter
• scanned copies of academic transcripts or grades of your highest and most recent qualifications
• any special circumstances you would like the selection panel to consider.

After you apply

We will contact you with the outcome of your application before the university’s deadline to withdraw from the course. If we don't award you a scholarship you will need to either self-fund or withdraw from the course.