Submissions open for Music Scholarships in New Zealand

Deadline: 01-Apr-2026

Creative New Zealand is offering Music Scholarships for 2026 to support composers and musicians undertaking accredited overseas study for up to 12 months. Up to two Edwin Carr Foundation Scholarships (up to $26,000 total) and two Jack McGill Music Scholarships (up to $10,000 total) will be awarded. Applications close 1 April 2026 at 1 PM, with results announced on 4 June 2026.

About Creative New Zealand

Creative New Zealand is the national arts development agency supporting artists and creative practitioners. Its Music Scholarships programme funds advanced international study for New Zealand musicians and composers.

Overview

The 2026 scholarships support emerging and established music practitioners to pursue accredited overseas training at recognised institutions for up to 12 months.

There are two scholarship categories available in 2026:

• Edwin Carr Foundation Scholarships

• Jack McGill Music Scholarships

Note: The Butland Music Scholarship will not be offered in 2026.

Scholarship Categories and Funding

1. Edwin Carr Foundation Scholarships

• Purpose: Support composers

• Number Available: Up to 2

• Maximum Funding Pool: $26,000 total (may be divided between two recipients)

• Focus: Accredited overseas study in composition

Applicants must be composers seeking advanced international study.

2. Jack McGill Music Scholarships

• Purpose: Support musicians aged 20 years or over

• Priority: Pianists

• Number Available: Up to 2

• Maximum Funding Pool: $10,000 total (may be divided between two recipients)

• Focus: Accredited overseas music study

Final decisions for the Jack McGill Music Scholarship are made in conjunction with Public Trust New Zealand.

What Expenses Are Covered?

Scholarships support international study costs only. Funding cannot be used for study in New Zealand.

Eligible costs include:

• Tuition or course fees

• Accommodation and living expenses

• Travel expenses directly related to the overseas programme

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be individuals (not organisations)

• Be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents

• Demonstrate a track record of experience and success in their musical field

• Have completed at least one of the following:

  • A relevant university degree

  • A diploma qualification

  • An LTCL or LRSM qualification related to the proposed study

• Apply for accredited courses at recognised overseas training institutions

For Jack McGill Scholarships, applicants must also be aged 20 years or over.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 1 April 2026 at 1 PM

• Results Announcement: 4 June 2026

• Study Duration: Up to 12 months overseas

How to Apply

1. Choose the appropriate scholarship category (Edwin Carr or Jack McGill).

2. Confirm eligibility, including citizenship/residency and qualifications.

3. Secure acceptance or documentation from a recognised overseas institution.

4. Prepare application materials outlining your study plan and artistic goals.

5. Upload required documents in approved file formats within size limits.

6. Provide additional supporting materials demonstrating artistic track record.

7. Submit the application before 1 April 2026 at 1 PM.

Supporting materials may include recent recordings, compositions, performance documentation, or other relevant evidence of artistic achievement. Additional media may be shared through accessible web links.

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed by a panel of established music practitioners.

The panel makes funding recommendations to Creative New Zealand staff, who determine final scholarship amounts.

For the Jack McGill Music Scholarship, final decisions are made in conjunction with Public Trust New Zealand.

Why These Scholarships Matter

These scholarships:

• Support international artistic development

• Strengthen New Zealand’s music sector

• Enable composers and musicians to gain advanced training abroad

• Encourage excellence in composition and performance

• Build global networks and artistic exposure

They provide critical financial support for musicians seeking world-class international education opportunities.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly outline your overseas study objectives

• Demonstrate artistic excellence and past achievements

• Show how the programme will advance your career

• Provide high-quality, recent supporting materials

• Ensure all documents meet file size and format requirements

• Highlight why international study is essential for your development

Avoid submitting outdated or unrelated supporting materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can the scholarship fund study in New Zealand?
No. Funding is strictly for overseas accredited study.

2. How much can I apply for?
Composers may apply for up to $26,000 total under the Edwin Carr Foundation Scholarship pool. Musicians may apply for up to $10,000 total under the Jack McGill Music Scholarship pool.

3. How many scholarships are available in 2026?
Up to two Edwin Carr Scholarships and up to two Jack McGill Scholarships.

4. What qualifications are required?
A relevant university degree, diploma, LTCL, or LRSM qualification related to the proposed study.

5. When will results be announced?
4 June 2026.

6. Who reviews the applications?
A panel of established music practitioners reviews applications and makes funding recommendations.

7. Can I submit supporting media?
Yes. Recent and relevant materials may be uploaded or provided via accessible web links.

Conclusion

The Creative New Zealand Music Scholarships 2026 provide significant financial support for composers and musicians pursuing accredited overseas study. By investing in international education and professional growth, these scholarships strengthen artistic excellence and contribute to the development of New Zealand’s music community on a global stage.

For more information, visit Creative NZ.