Otago PhD Scholarships 2025-26 offer an exceptional opportunity for global scholars to pursue fully funded doctoral studies at New Zealand’s leading research institution. The University of Otago provides up to 164 prestigious scholarships annually, covering full tuition and a generous stipend for three years. Renowned for its academic excellence since 1869, Otago empowers PhD candidates to conduct groundbreaking research across diverse fields, including health sciences, business, law, and technology, under the guidance of world-class faculty.
This fully funded Otago PhD scholarship enables talented researchers to contribute to global innovation while experiencing New Zealand’s vibrant academic culture. With no fixed deadline and rolling admissions, the University of Otago PhD Scholarships 2025-26 are highly competitive, prioritizing academic merit and research potential. Whether you’re an international or domestic student, this is your chance to advance your career at one of the world’s top research universities—apply now and turn your ideas into impactful discoveries!
Scholarship Summary
- Country: New Zealand
- Host: University of Otago
- Study Level: PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies
Benefits
- Successful applicants will get a tuition fee waiver for 36 months.
- International students will receive an annual stipend of NZ$33,624 from almost all the Otago international scholarships.
- An opportunity to study abroad for free.
- Exposure to different cultures.
- Students will also get support funding for doctoral research.
- The New Zealand PhD scholarship is an opportunity to conduct research at an international level in well-equipped laboratories.
- Awareness of advanced research technologies, methods and techniques.
Eligibility Criteria
- International students, as well as domestic students of New Zealand, can apply for this fully funded doctoral scholarship.
- Applicants must have a master’s degree with at least 0.75 EFTS.
- Applicants must be applying 1st time for the doctoral program at the University of Otago.
- International students must have excellent academic records, i.e., fulfilling university grade requirements.
- Applicants must show interest and potential for research.
- The recommendation of the head of the department is required for this scholarships NZ 2025.
- Applicants must be proficient in the English Language or, if required, have an English language score or proficiency letter.
- Applicants must also meet the English language criteria.
Otago PhD Scholarships 2025-26 Selection Criteria:
- Research Motivation and Potential.
- Academic merit.
Note: There is no last date to apply for the Otago PhD Scholarships 2025-26 Students can apply at any time throughout the year.
How to Apply?
- To be considered for the scholarship, you first need to apply for a doctoral programme at the University of Otago using their online application system, eVision.
- Once you’ve submitted your PhD application, you’ll receive an invitation through your eVision portal to apply for the University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship.
- After getting the invitation, go to the “My Scholarships and Awards” section in your eVision portal. This is where you’ll find the scholarship application form.
- You’ll need to upload your academic CV (preferably in APA format) and copies of your research publications, such as abstracts or title pages.
- Depending on your background, you can also include transcripts, grading scales, reference letters, a summary of your proposed research, thesis examiner reports, or an explanation for any academic gaps or low grades.
- Once everything is ready and uploaded, submit your scholarship application. The University of Otago will review applications either on a rolling basis or during specific assessment rounds, depending on your student category.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Otago PhD Scholarships 2025-26 provide NZD $30,696 annually plus tuition waivers for three years. Open to new full-time doctoral candidates worldwide, applications are assessed quarterly with no field restrictions. No age limits, but part-time or current PhD students are ineligible.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Otago PhD Scholarships 2025-26 ?
To qualify, applicants must have a first-class honours degree or equivalent and meet the university’s admission requirements for doctoral study. International and domestic students are eligible, but those already enrolled in a PhD program at Otago cannot apply.
How much funding does the scholarship provide?
The scholarship offers NZD $30,696 per year plus a tuition fee waiver for three years. Additional funds may cover thesis expenses and health insurance for international students, but living costs are the recipient’s responsibility.
What is the application deadline for the 2025-26 scholarships?
Applications are accepted year-round, but selection rounds occur quarterly—March, June, September, and December. Early submission is recommended as scholarships are competitive and subject to availability.
Can I apply if I’m already enrolled in a PhD program elsewhere?
No, the scholarship is only for new PhD candidates starting at Otago. Current doctoral students, whether at Otago or another institution, are ineligible to apply for this funding.
Are part-time PhD students eligible for this scholarship?
No, the scholarship is exclusively for full-time doctoral study. Part-time candidates are not considered, as the funding is structured to support dedicated research without external employment.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a research proposal, CV, and reference letters. No separate application is needed—eligibility is assessed automatically with your PhD admission application.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there’s no age restriction. The scholarship evaluates academic merit and research potential, regardless of the applicant’s age or career stage.
Can the scholarship be extended beyond three years?
Extensions are rare and only granted under exceptional circumstances, like medical or parental leave. Normally, the funding is fixed for 36 months, with no automatic renewal.
Do I need to reapply if I don’t receive the scholarship in one round?
Yes, unsuccessful applicants may reapply in subsequent rounds if they still meet eligibility criteria. Each round is independent, so previous rejections don’t affect future chances.
Are there restrictions on the field of study for this scholarship?
No, the scholarship supports PhD research across all disciplines offered at the university. Awards are based on academic excellence, not the subject area.
⚠️ Disclaimer
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