The POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship is designed to support Pacific students interested in a career in health. It provides access to the JumpSTART Physics programme and continuous support through the PHSI 191 Biological Physics paper and Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) at the University of Otago.
The scholarship is run through the Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU) at the University of Otago. It offers financial assistance, academic support, and resources to help Pacific students succeed in their first year of health sciences study.
Benefits of POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship 2026
- Standard value of ~NZ $2,500
- Standard tenure is one year.
- Payment of the scholarship will be made in covering the cost of the tuition fees of the JumpSTART Physics programme and towards the cost of staying in a Residential College for the 3-week period that students need to be on campus to complete the programme.
- Additional resources, tutorials, and academic support throughout enrolment in PHSI 191 will also be provided.
- This scholarship may be held concurrently with any other University of Otago Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship where applicable.
Eligibility Criteria for the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship 2026
- Application for this scholarship is open to all students who are of indigenous Pacific decent and hold either New Zealand citizenship, or a New Zealand Residence Class Visa.
How to Apply for the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship 2026
- Submit the official application form by the specified due date;
- Submit a separate application to study the JumpSTART Physics programme;
- Apply to enrol in the Health Sciences First Year programme at the University of Otago.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the value of the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship?
The standard value of the scholarship is approximately NZ $2,500. This amount is used to cover tuition fees for the JumpSTART Physics programme and accommodation costs at a Residential College for the required 3-week on-campus period.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
The scholarship is open to all students who are of indigenous Pacific descent and hold either New Zealand citizenship or a New Zealand Residence Class Visa. Applicants must also apply to enrol in the Health Sciences First Year programme at the University of Otago.
What is the closing date for the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship?
The closing date for first round considerations is 9 November. Applications are now open. It is recommended to submit your application and all required documents by this date.
How many scholarships are offered?
Five POPO Pacific Physics Scholarships are offered each year. The scholarship is competitive and selection is based on previous secondary school study, potential, motivation, and a commitment to a career in health.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers the cost of tuition fees for the JumpSTART Physics programme and contributes towards the cost of staying in a Residential College for the 3-week period required to complete the programme. Additional resources, tutorials, and academic support are also provided.
Can I hold this scholarship with other University of Otago scholarships?
Yes, this scholarship may be held concurrently with any other University of Otago Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship where applicable. Check the specific terms of each scholarship for any restrictions.
What is the tenure of the scholarship?
The standard tenure of the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship is one year. The scholarship is intended to support students during their first year of study in the Health Sciences First Year programme.
What is the JumpSTART Physics programme?
JumpSTART Physics is a preparatory programme designed to help students succeed in the PHSI 191 Biological Physics paper. Recipients of the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship are required to be enrolled in this programme.
How are recipients selected?
The Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU) considers previous secondary school study, potential and motivation to succeed at university, and a commitment to pursue Health Science study and a career in health when awarding the scholarship.
Where can I find the application form?
The official application form is available for download as a PDF on the University of Otago’s scholarship page. You can find it under the ‘Downloads’ section on the POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship webpage.
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