Apply for Addiction and Problem Gambling Harm Scholarship (New Zealand)

The LeVa Addiction and Problem Gambling Harm Scholarship provides up to $5,000 per year to New Zealand citizens or permanent residents studying qualifications aimed at reducing harms from alcohol, drugs, and problem gambling. Funds cover tuition fees only and are administered directly by the education provider. Applications close 5pm, Monday 9 February 2026, and require enrolment at an NZQA-accredited tertiary provider along with supporting documentation.

Overview

The LeVa Addiction and Problem Gambling Harm Scholarship supports individuals pursuing studies that contribute to reducing harms from alcohol, other drugs, and problem gambling in New Zealand.

This scholarship ensures financial assistance for tuition costs while promoting the development of qualified professionals in the field of addiction and problem gambling harm reduction.

Funding Details

• Maximum Award: $5,000 per year

• Use of Funds: Tuition fees only

• Refund Policy: Any refunds due to withdrawal within the provider’s deadline (typically the first two weeks of semester) are paid directly to LeVa by the education provider

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship/Residency: Must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident during the course of study

• Programme: Must be enrolled in a qualification related to Addiction or Problem Gambling Harm

• Provider: Must be enrolled with an NZQA-accredited tertiary provider in New Zealand

• Application: Complete and submit all required documentation by 5pm, Monday 9 February 2026

Who Can Apply?

• Domestic students as defined by the Ministry of Education in New Zealand

• Individuals pursuing qualifications that directly contribute to reducing harms from alcohol, drugs, and problem gambling

Application Process

1. Register an account on the scholarship portal

2. Start and save your application

3. Complete all sections of the application form

4. Attach all required supporting documents

5. Include a 2026 tuition fees invoice from your provider

6. Provide additional relevant information if applicable

7. Sign the declaration form before submission

8. Submit application for review by the scholarship committee

Required Documentation

Applicants must provide:

• Photo identification

• Evidence of name change, if applicable

• Proof of New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency

• For the Futures that Work Scholarship only: evidence of Indigenous Pasifika ancestry

• Official academic transcript from the last 12 months, including 2025 course grades

• Proof of enrolment for 2026

• 2026 tuition fees tax invoice

• Evidence of relevant qualifications

• Curriculum vitae (CV)

• Letter of support or character reference

Key Notes

• Scholarship funds are non-transferable and only for tuition fees

• Applicants must maintain eligibility throughout the course

• Early withdrawal from the course may result in refunds to LeVa

Tips for a Strong Application

• Ensure all sections of the application form are completed accurately

• Submit all documents in the required formats

• Double-check enrolment and tuition fee details

• Provide clear evidence of programme relevance to harm reduction

• Include a strong letter of support or reference

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much funding is available?

Up to $5,000 per year for tuition fees.

2. Who is eligible to apply?

New Zealand citizens or permanent residents enrolled in an addiction or problem gambling harm-related qualification at an NZQA-accredited tertiary provider.

3. Can the funds be used for living expenses?

No, scholarship funds are restricted to tuition fees only.

4. What is the application deadline?

5pm, Monday 9 February 2026.

5. What happens if I withdraw from my course?

The education provider pays any applicable refunds directly to LeVa, typically if withdrawal occurs within the first two weeks of semester.

6. What documents are required?

Photo ID, proof of citizenship/residency, academic transcripts, enrolment confirmation, tuition fee invoice, CV, qualifications, and reference letters.

7. Can international students apply?

No, only New Zealand citizens or permanent residents are eligible.

Conclusion

The LeVa Addiction and Problem Gambling Harm Scholarship provides targeted financial support for students committed to reducing harms from alcohol, drugs, and gambling in New Zealand.

By funding tuition costs, the scholarship allows students to focus on developing expertise in the field while contributing to better health outcomes and harm reduction initiatives across the country.