About this opportunity
Opportunity Overview
The University of Otago Scholarships in New Zealand offer a life-changing opportunity for domestic and international students to pursue a postgraduate degree with financial support. With over 153 fully funded doctoral and research master's awards available, this scholarship is a gateway to unlocking your academic and research potential. By studying at New Zealand's oldest university, you'll gain access to world-class research facilities, expert supervision, and a network of global employers who value Otago graduates. Whether you're seeking your first doctoral qualification or a research master's degree, the University of Otago Scholarships can help you achieve your academic goals and make a meaningful impact in your chosen field. The University of Otago is renowned for its research excellence, with 13 flagship research centres and a strong track record of securing external research funding. With a proud history of graduating around 4,500 postgraduates and more than 1,500 doctoral students, Otago has established itself as a leader in postgraduate education. By joining the Otago community, you'll be part of a vibrant and supportive environment that fosters academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
Benefits & Financial Aid
- Stipend: NZ$34,128 per year (doctoral scholarship)
- Stipend: NZ$18,204 per year (research master's scholarship)
- Tuition: Fully covered for up to 36 months (capped at domestic rate)
Eligibility Criteria
- Seeking your first doctoral qualification or a research master's degree
- Domestic and international students welcome
- Completed a Master's degree with a thesis (or equivalent) for doctoral applicants
- Relevant advanced-level papers counting towards the degree for doctoral applicants
- Academic excellence criteria apply for research master's applicants
- Recommendation and ranking of the relevant Head of Department required for doctoral applicants
- English proficiency proof required for international applicants
Required Documents
- Completed admission application
- Academic transcripts from all previous tertiary qualifications
- Degree certificates (Bachelor's and Master's degrees)
- CV/Resume highlighting research experience and publications
- Research proposal outlining your intended research project
- Two academic reference letters supporting your research potential
- English proficiency proof (IELTS, TOEFL, or MOI letter) for international applicants
- Academic credential evaluation (if required for international applicants)
How to Apply
- Check your eligibility and review the academic and research requirements.
- Find a supervisor and discuss your research proposal with them.
- Prepare your documents, including transcripts, certificates, CV, research proposal, and reference letters.
- Complete the admission application through the University of Otago's eVision portal.
- Submit your admission application and wait for an invitation to apply for the scholarship.
- Complete the scholarship application form within the eVision portal.
- Wait for review in the next quarterly round (March, June, September, or November).
- Accept the scholarship offer and enroll in your chosen program.
- Arrrange your student visa (if applicable).
- Prepare for your studies in New Zealand. Submit your application using the Apply button below.
Ready to apply?


