Deaf Studies Award

Study area(s): Humanities and Social Sciences
Closing date(s): 1 December
Tenure: Up to two years
Award for: Living with a disability; Facing financial hardship; Domestic
Number offered: Varies
Value: $6,000 ($3,000 per year over two years)

History and purpose

The Deaf Studies Award was established through a gift from Sir Roy McKenzie to mark the introduction of the Certificate of Deaf Studies: Teaching NZSL at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in 1997.

The award supports people who are fluent in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) to gain a qualification in teaching NZSL and to contribute to the ongoing strength and vitality of NZSL and the Deaf community.

Who can apply?

You can apply if you are:

  • enrolled, or planning to enrol, in the Certificate of Deaf Studies: Teaching NZSL at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in the year following application
  • a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident

How applications are assessed

Applicatins are assessed based on:

  • potential to succeed in the programme
  • commitment to teaching NZSL and/or contributing to the Deaf community
  • financial circumstances, where relevant.

How to apply

Complete and submit the online application form by 4:30 pm on 1 December 2026.

If you need information in NZSL or require support with the application process, please contact us to discuss available options.

Scholarship specific documentation

  • A personal statement outlining information relevant to the applicant's suitability for the scholarship

Selection process

Recipients are selected by the Programme Director of NZSL (or nominee) and, where appropriate, other University staff.

Additional information

Recipients are required to:

  • write a letter of thanks to the donor when accepting the award
  • submit a short report at the end of each year they hold the award, explaining how their studies are going and what they plan to do next.

Conditions

  1. You must submit your online application by 4.30 pm on the closing date.
  2. Late applications or applications that are missing information will not be considered.
  3. If you are offered the award, you must be fully enrolled in the Certificate in Deaf Studies: Teaching NZSL before the award can be paid.
  4. This award cannot be postponed to a future year.
  5. You can hold this award at the same time as other scholarships or awards.
  6. If you withdraw from your studies or do not make satisfactory academic progress, you may be required to repay part of the award. If you plan to withdraw, please contact the Scholarships Office as soon as possible.
  7. Recipients may be invited to support University events or promotional activities as an ambassador for Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
  8. In exceptional circumstances, the University may adjust these conditions to support an applicant or recipient experiencing hardship.

Contact

Scholarships Office
scholarships-office@vuw.ac.nz
Phone 0800 04 04 04