Scholarship overview
Key facts
Application dates
Restrictions
The Extramural Student Support Trust (ESST) was established in 2011 through a founding grant from the Extramural Students' Society (EXMSS), in recognition of the unique needs of distance students undertaking study at Massey University. The Trust is held in perpetuity by the Massey University Foundation to provide financial assistance, scholarships, and bursaries to distance students. Awards are made at least once a year, with the selection process administered by Massey's Scholarships Office on the recommendation of the Trust. These scholarships and bursaries reflect the Trust's enduring commitment to supporting the academic journeys of students who study primarily by distance.
What you'll be studying
You will be studying an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification, primarily by distance mode.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must be:
- New Zealand citizens or permanent residents with whakapapa Māori
- studying at Massey University, primarily by distance mode
- enrolled in full time or part time study by distance mode in the year of award
Application checklist
Include the following with your application:
- A statement that demonstrates your commitment to study while navigating cultural, whānau, and community obligations (e.g. tangihanga, Kaupapa Māori responsibilities, iwi roles). Tell us also about your engagement with Te Ao Māori in ways that are meaningful to you, rather than formal leadership or visibility. You are also welcome to share any barriers to study you have faced.
Selection considerations
Selection will be based on the following attributes:
- Commitment to study while navigating cultural, whānau, and community obligations (e.g. tangihanga, Kaupapa Māori responsibilities, iwi roles).
- Engagement with Te Ao Māori in ways that are meaningful to the individual, rather than formal leadership or visibility.
- Demonstrated resilience in maintaining enrolment and passing courses despite systemic or personal barriers.