Doris Elizabeth Geraldine Swadling Scholarships 2026

To be eligible to apply, applicants must be:

• New Zealand born or naturalised citizens and be under 21 years of age (as at the closing date of applications being 30 October 2026). 
• Permanently living within the region administered by the Taranaki Regional Council including New Plymouth, Hawera, Waitara, Stratford, Inglewood, Eltham, Ōpunake, Pātea - at the time of making the application.
• Intending to advance their education at an appropriate tertiary provider such as but not limited to a University, Polytechnic, or Training School (including cadetships)  and desire ultimately to take up a career in the music or farming industry.
• Intending to complete a course of study for a minimum of one year (full-time) relating to the music or agriculture/farming industry either directly or indirectly.

Applications must be from individuals only and the scholarships will only be awarded to suitable applicants.

Scholarship Terms and Conditions

• The Committee's decision is final.
• Decisions regarding scholarships are made based on information provided in the application forms, supporting material and other enquiries.
• All scholarships are conditional on the applicant being enrolled at the named education provider in a course of study as outlined in the application.
• Scholarships may be approved subject to certain conditions. In such circumstances the funds will normally be held by Public Trust until the conditions have been met.

Important dates

• Applications are open from 9am on 1st of September 2026 and close at 5pm on 30th of October 2026.
• Applicants will be advised of the outcome by 31^st of January 2027 (date is subject to change, of which applicants will be notified of).

Late applications will not be accepted.

Please upload a copy of your Birth Certificate, Passport or Citizenship.

Please upload the following documents to support your application:

Essay - a 250 Word Essay on 'Why have you chosen the course of study you plan to start in 2027? What is your intended career? What you would like to achieve with your qualification and in your career.' 

References - Please provide two written references (one from school Principal or Dean and one from another person) (NB: for Music Applicants the second reference would be from a music teacher etc.)

Cover Letter - including a brief description of your background, details of education, interests etc (1/2 to 1 full page long)