The Academic GP Registrar PhD Scholarship is a prestigious award offered by the University of Otago to support General Practitioners pursuing a Doctoral degree. This scholarship aims to build research capability in Primary Health Care and General Practice.
The University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university, renowned for its research excellence and medical education. The Faculty of Medicine established this scholarship in 2013 to foster academic leadership among GPs and strengthen the primary care discipline.
Benefits of Academic GP Registrar PhD Scholarship 2026
- NZ $30,696 per year for full-time study or NZ $15,348 per year for part-time study
- Tuition fee waiver for the PhD thesis paper for the period of tenure
Eligibility Criteria for the Academic GP Registrar PhD Scholarship 2026
- Be a New Zealand citizen or New Zealand Residence Class Visa Holder
- Hold a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degrees (MBChB) or an equivalent medical degree
- Demonstrate a formal commitment to a General Practice career by having successfully completed either (i) the General Practice Education Programme first year (GPEP1) with an above average pass in the Primary Membership Examination (PRIMEX) or (ii) a RNZCGP Fellowship
- Have successfully completed either the ‘Health Sciences Research Methods’ paper (HASX417) or the ‘Research Methods in General Practice’ paper (GENX821), or an alternative 30 point postgraduate research methods paper with a minimum B+ grade
- Demonstrate proof of potential academic research ability through (i) successful completion of a research Master’s degree, or (ii) appropriate and equivalent prior research experience
- Be enrolled or intending to enrol for a PhD through one of the following Departments: Department of Public Health & General Practice, University of Otago, Christchurch; Department of General Practice & Rural Health, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago; Department of Primary Health Care & General Practice, University of Otago, Wellington
How to Apply for the Academic GP Registrar PhD Scholarship 2026
- Download the University of Otago Academic General Practitioner Registrar PhD Scholarship Regulations
- Download the University of Otago Academic General Practitioner Registrar PhD Scholarship Guidelines
- Submit your application by the closing date of 15 September
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Academic GP Registrar PhD Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the value of the Academic GP Registrar PhD Scholarship?
The scholarship provides NZ $30,696 per year for full-time study or NZ $15,348 per year for part-time study, plus a tuition fee waiver for the PhD thesis paper for the period of tenure.
How many scholarships are offered each year?
One scholarship is offered annually.
What is the closing date for the scholarship?
The closing date is 15 September each year.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
Applicants must be a New Zealand citizen or Residence Class Visa Holder, hold an MBChB or equivalent medical degree, demonstrate commitment to a General Practice career, have completed specific research methods papers with a B+ grade or higher, and show proof of research ability.
Which departments can I enrol in for the PhD?
You must be enrolled or intending to enrol through one of the following: Department of Public Health & General Practice (Christchurch), Department of General Practice & Rural Health (Dunedin), or Department of Primary Health Care & General Practice (Wellington).
What factors are considered when selecting the recipient?
The selection considers the applicant’s academic ability, proposed programme of research, career goals and plans, and personal qualities.
Can I apply if I have not yet started my PhD?
Yes, you can apply if you are intending to enrol for a PhD, provided you meet all other eligibility criteria.
What is the purpose of this scholarship?
The scholarship aims to support the sustainability and development of the Primary Health Care and General Practice academic discipline by helping GPs achieve a Doctoral degree and vocational registration as a Fellow of the RNZCGP.
Is the scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is partially funded. It includes a stipend and a tuition fee waiver for the PhD thesis paper, but does not cover all costs.
Where can I find the full regulations and guidelines?
You can download the scholarship regulations and guidelines from the University of Otago’s official scholarship page.
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