The Lissie Rathbone Scholarship is a prestigious award for New Zealand students intending to enrol full-time in a degree-level programme. Established in 1925, it supports up to three students per year with NZ$600 annually for three years, based on academic merit in English and History at NCEA Level 3.
The University of Otago administers this scholarship, which was created from the bequest of Lissie Rathbone. The scholarship aims to assist students domiciled in the Otago or Southland Land District who are under 19 years of age and have not previously been enrolled at any university.
Benefits of Lissie Rathbone Scholarship 2026 in New Zealand
- NZ$600 per year for three years for full-time study at degree level at the University of Otago or, with the approval of the Council, at another University in New Zealand
Eligibility Criteria for the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship 2026 in New Zealand
- Be intending to enrol full time for first year undergraduate study in a degree-level programme in the year after application and not previously been enrolled at any University
- Be under the age of 19 years on the first day of December immediately before enrolling at the University
- Have been domiciled in the Otago or Southland Land District for one year before enrolling at the University
How to Apply for the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship 2026 in New Zealand
- Eligibility is determined by NCEA level 3 for English and History.
- Selections are managed by the Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships (UES) Manager.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship?
Scholarship is a New Zealand-based award established in 1925 from the bequest of Lissie Rathbone. It provides up to three scholarships per year, each valued at NZ$600 annually for three years, for first-year undergraduate students studying English and History.
Who is eligible for the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship?
Applicants must be intending to enrol full-time in a degree-level programme for the first time, be under 19 years of age on December 1st before enrolling, and have been domiciled in the Otago or Southland Land District for at least one year prior to enrolment.
What is the value of the Scholarship?
scholarship is valued at NZ$600 per year for three years. It supports full-time study at degree level at the University of Otago or, with Council approval, at another New Zealand university.
How many Lissie Rathbone Scholarships are offered each year?
Up to three Lissie Rathbone Scholarships are offered per year.
What is the closing date for the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship?
The closing date is listed as ‘Not applicable’ on the official University of Otago website.
How are Lissie Rathbone Scholarships awarded?
Scholarships are awarded based on academic results from a student’s Year 13 performance in English and History at secondary school. The Council may also take into account the financial circumstances of any candidate.
Can I use the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship at another university?
Yes, with the approval of the Council, the scholarship may be used at another university in New Zealand.
Who manages the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship selection?
Selections are managed by the Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships (UES) Manager at the University of Otago.
What subjects are considered for the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship?
Eligibility is determined by NCEA Level 3 results in English and History.
Are there any terms and conditions for the Lissie Rathbone Scholarship?
Yes, the University of Otago Entrance Scholarships Terms and Conditions may also apply to this award.
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