The University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship covers the standard accommodation fee for a residential college (around $20,000) plus tuition fees for the first year.
Application Deadline:
- Closes: 15 August 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
Established by the University of Otago Council in 2011, this scholarship assists outstanding new undergraduate students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement. It provides significant financial support for tuition and accommodation, easing the transition into university life.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- All undergraduate degrees at the University of Otago (100‑level papers, full‑time study).
Type:
- Entrance Scholarship | Undergraduate | New Zealand
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be New Zealand citizens, NZ Residence Class Visa holders, Australian citizens/permanent residents with domestic fee status, OR
- Be international students who completed Year 12/13 at a New Zealand school or foundation course.
- Be enrolling for the first time in first‑year undergraduate study.
- Not have studied more than 0.4 EFTs at the degree level (exceptions apply for concurrent secondary enrolment).
- Have achieved NCEA Level 2 endorsed with excellence (or equivalent).
- Demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and extracurricular achievements.
How are applicants selected?
Selection panel considers:
- Academic ability (minimum NCEA Level 2 with excellence).
- Leadership potential.
- Sporting/cultural involvement.
- Community contribution.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- New Zealand citizens/residents.
- International students educated in New Zealand (Year 12/13 or foundation course).
Where will the award be taken?
- University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
How Many Awards?
- Varies annually.
What is the benefit of the award?
- Year 1:
- Tuition fee waiver (domestic rate).
- Accommodation fee waiver (~NZD $20,000) in a university residential college.
- If not in college accommodation: tuition waiver + NZD $5,000 living cost contribution.
- Years 2 & 3:
- Up to NZD $7,000 per year (tuition waiver + living cost contribution).
- Continuation requires a GPA ≥ 7.0 or progression in professional programmes (Dentistry, Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Surveying, etc.).
- Total value: >NZD $45,000 over 3 years.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Three years (subject to academic performance and conditions).
How to Apply:
- Begin enrolment via eVision (University of Otago student management system).
- Access the entrance scholarship application.
- Complete sections on leadership, extracurricular, and academic achievements.
- Submit before 15 August 2026.
