overview and eligibility criteria

Now in its third year, the annual Ian Haynes Memorial Scholarship supports aspiring law students in the commencement of their law degrees.

Scholarship details:

• Annual scholarship of $3,000 per year, renewable for up to four consecutive years (totalling a maximum of $12,000).
• The scholarship can be used as a contribution to course fees and board (when not living in your home city).

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply, you must be:

• A domestic student enrolled in an LLB at a New Zealand university

• Entering your second year of study in 2026

• Able to demonstrate motivation, potential and a commitment to contributing to the profession or your community

The recipient will be required to provide academic transcripts for each year of the scholarship to confirm ongoing progress before each annual payment is released.

application process

Applicants must submit:

• Responses to three written questions (max 300 words each):

  1. What inspires you to pursue a career in the legal profession, and what drives your commitment to this path?

  2. What makes you a strong candidate for this scholarship?

  3. How do you hope to contribute to the legal profession or your community?

• Your current CV

• Your academic transcript

• An AI declaration confirming whether AI tools were used, and if so, how

If you are shortlisted, you will also be asked to provide:

• A short 30–45 second video explaining why you should be awarded the scholarship

• Referee details and/or written references, as requested

selection process & key dates

Stage 1: Staff screening

• Applications are reviewed and scored against a rubric covering academic record, motivation, candidacy, and contribution/vision.
• Approximately 15 applicants progress to the next stage.

Stage 2: Committee review

• The Selection Committee reviews the shortlisted candidates, including their written applications and short videos, and selects the top 3–4 finalists.

Stage 3: Final interviews

• Finalists are interviewed in person in Auckland (with flights funded if required).
• Online interviews are used only when absolutely necessary.
• The Committee then selects the scholarship recipient.

Key dates:

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the scholarship?

The scholarship is open to domestic LLB students at a New Zealand university who will be entering their second year of study in 2026.

I have not received my examination results yet. Can I still apply?

Yes. You can apply before all your results are released. You may upload the most recent version of your academic transcript from your university portal.

How can I submit my application?

Applications must be submitted through the "Apply Now" button, which will take you to a secure external application form where you can complete the questions and upload your documents.

What documents do I need to upload?

You will need to upload your current CV and your academic transcript. The written questions are completed directly in the online form. Shortlisted candidates will later be asked to provide a short video and their referee information.

What file formats are accepted?

PDF, Word documents and standard image files are accepted for uploaded documents. Shortlisted candidates will receive instructions on how to submit their video using a cloud link or file transfer service.

How are the scholarship recipients selected?

The selection process includes staff screening of all applications, a review by the Selection Committee of shortlisted candidates, and final interviews with the top finalists in Auckland. The Committee then chooses the recipient.

What happens if I miss the application deadline?

Late applications cannot be accepted, so please ensure your application is submitted before the closing date of 31 January 2026.

Are there any ongoing requirements if I receive the scholarship?

Yes. The scholarship recipient will need to provide an academic transcript each year to confirm ongoing progress before each annual payment is released.

I have another question. Who can I get in touch with regarding this?

If you have any questions or need help with your application, please email enquiries@collaw.ac.nz