Space Scholarship Opportunity

2027 New Zealand Space Scholarship Opportunity

2027 New Zealand Space Scholarship Opportunity
 
A postgraduate student opportunity that’s out of this world
 
•    Opportunity to undertake up to 13 weeks internship at Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California in 2027. 
•    Costs supported through the New Zealand Space Scholarship.
•    Up to seven graduate students may be selected.

About this opportunity 

High-performing postgraduate students are encouraged to reach for the stars and apply for the New Zealand Space Scholarship.

The New Zealand Space Agency invites high-performing New Zealand postgraduate students to apply for internships at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory over the 2027 US summer (July to September).   

The scholarship is open to eligible students studying science, engineering, technology, mathematics or computer science at post-graduate level in 2027 with an interest in space science, engineering or technology.

Scholarship recipients will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge space missions and science, working alongside scientists and engineers at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), one of the world's leading space research and exploration centres.

Flights, accommodation, a financial contribution toward other travel costs, and a daily allowance will be provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) through the New Zealand Space Scholarship. 

Candidates must have a high academic standing and meet the scholarship’s eligibility requirements. 

The scholarship is designed to help prepare students for future careers in New Zealand's space and advanced aviation sectors

Further details of this opportunity are available on the MBIE Website. Prospective candidates are encouraged to read this information thoroughly before submitting their application.   

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

•    Be a New Zealand citizen (NASA requirement).
•    Be aged 18 years or older.
•    Be enrolled in a postgraduate STEM qualification at a New Zealand tertiary institution in a field relevant to NASA's mission priorities.
•    Hold a minimum GPA equivalent of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (New Zealand grades must be converted to the US GPA scale).
•    Be strong and effective written in your verbal  and written communication skills.
•    Be available to undertake the internship in person from July to September 2027 (dates subject to change).
•    Be willing to undergo any required health and security checks for travel to the United States and entry into US federal facilities.
•    Be eligible for a J1 or F1 visa and understand the applicable visa conditions.
•    Be able to obtain appropriate travel and medical insurance

How to Apply:

The New Zealand Space Agency at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is the only official entity able to accept applications for consideration by JPL.  The Agency will undertake pre-selection of candidates before providing a final shortlist to JPL for consideration.   

 
The deadline for applications is Sunday, 1 November 2026.
 
All applications must be submitted via the Ministry’s online job application portal. Click the 'Apply' button to be taken to the application site.
 
Candidates are encouraged to start their applications early. Late or incomplete applications may not be considered. 
 
Please email the New Zealand Space Agency if you have any questions about this opportunity: nzspaceagency@mbie.govt.nz