Applications are now open for the University of Otago Doctoral and Master’s Research Scholarships. These prestigious scholarships support outstanding students who want to pursue full-time research degrees (PhD or research Master’s) at one of New Zealand’s top universities.
The scholarships are fully funded for most recipients and cover both a generous living stipend and tuition fees. Students from almost all academic fields can apply. There is no application fee, and applications are accepted throughout the year.
Key Details:
- Degree Level: Master’s (Research) and Doctoral (PhD & Professional Doctorates)
- Host Country: New Zealand
- University: University of Otago
- Application Deadline: Open all year – Applications are considered in quarterly rounds (March, June, September, November)
- Stipend (Doctoral): NZ$34,128 per year
- Stipend (Master’s): NZ$18,204 per year
- Tuition Fees: Domestic rate waiver (International students usually receive domestic fee coverage)
- Nationalities: Open to both Domestic and International students
- Application Fee: None
What This Scholarship Offers:
- A competitive annual living stipend (NZ$34,128 for PhD and NZ$18,204 for Master’s) paid monthly
- Full tuition fee waiver at the domestic rate for the duration of the scholarship
- Opportunity to study at a world-class research university in New Zealand
- Access to high-quality supervision, excellent research facilities, and academic resources
- Chance to live and conduct research in a safe, beautiful country with a supportive academic environment
- For international students: valuable international study experience and the possibility of gaining work rights during and after studies
Eligibility Criteria:
- Seeking their first research-based Master’s or Doctoral qualification
- Have a strong academic record (good GPA in relevant advanced-level papers)
- Show strong research potential
- Receive a positive recommendation from the Head of Department
- Meet the University’s admission requirements for the chosen programme
- For most scholarships: Domestic fee-paying students are preferred, but many options are open to international students
- International applicants may need to provide credential evaluation if their previous degree is from outside New Zealand or Australia
Note: University of Otago employees are generally not eligible if studying as part of their employment.
Programs Available:
- Health Sciences
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Geology
- Environmental Sciences
- Agriculture and Food Technology
- Economics
- Business
- Education
- Humanities
- Literature
- Classics
- Philosophy
- History
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Law
- And many other research areas
Special scholarships also exist for specific fields such as Cancer Research, Scottish Studies, Classics, Economics, and Geology.
How to Apply:
- Apply for admission to your chosen Master’s or Doctoral programme at the University of Otago.
- Once your admission application is submitted, you will receive an invitation through the eVision portal to apply for the scholarship.
- Complete and submit the scholarship application before the quarterly deadline.
- Ensure your department completes the required academic assessment.
Tip: Apply as early as possible. Decisions are made four times a year.
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