India and China have emerged as the top destinations for recipients of the Prime Minister's Scholarships, which support New Zealanders studying abroad.
The scholarships, introduced in 2013 by the John Key-led National government, aim to provide opportunities for study, research or internships in Asia and Latin America.
The scholarships cover tuition fees for overseas institutions, flights and a contribution towards internship fees, living expenses, accommodation, visa and insurance costs.
They cover periods ranging from six weeks to two years at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, fostering international educational and cultural exchange.
The programme aligns with New Zealand's strategic interests in strengthening relationships with key regions.
In Asia, participating countries include China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.
In Latin America, the scholarship extends to Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Mexico.
According to Education New Zealand, China has been the most popular destination, with 858 recipients choosing to study there since 2013.
India ranks as the second most popular destination, with 342 recipients selecting it for study or internship opportunities over the same period.
Among them is Karamvir Talwar.
"I'm currently working as an intern at a specialised law chamber in Mumbai, India," Talwar said.
Born in India, Talwar's family moved to New Zealand in 2009 from Lucknow when he was six years old.
Now in his final year at University of Auckland, Talwar is set to graduate with a conjoint degree in law and arts.
Karamvir Talwar is currently in Mumbai for an internship after receiving a Prime Minister's Scholarship. Photo: Supplied
Passionate about giving back to the community, he says the experience in India has deepened his understanding of resource-efficient ways to help others.
"[In India] I have learned how this is done without being resource intensive," he said. "I've also seen how creative and efficient solutions are essential to meeting each person's needs."
Reflecting on his time in Mumbai, Talwar described the city's colonial heritage and its impact on modern life.
"Mumbai's cultural landscape is shaped by an era of colonisation. Coming from New Zealand, it is remarkable to see how that history has influenced the city," he said.
"Personally, this experience has reminded me of the importance of humility and understanding," he said. "People here are some of the happiest I've seen, despite having the least."
Education New Zealand notes that the scholarships are divided into individual and group programmes.
Over the past two years, 232 individual scholarships have been awarded, while 357 recipients participated in group programmes.
In 2024, Thailand was the most popular destination for group programme recipients, with 40 choosing to go there. In the individual category, Colombia was selected by 14 recipients.
Over the 2024-25 period, 118 individual scholarships have been awarded, with 89 recipients heading to Asia and 30 choosing Latin America.
Applications for the 2025 group scholarship round will open on 26 February and close on 11 April.
For those considering an experience in India, Talwar has some advice.
"Keep an open mind and take that extra step at every stage of your journey," he said. "That's the best way to truly make the most of your time in India and bring back vital knowledge that will enhance both your personal growth and your contribution to New Zealand."
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