The POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship is designed to support Pacific students at the University of Otago as they prepare for the CHEM 191 Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health paper, part of Health Sciences First Year (HSFY). This scholarship provides access to the CHEM 150 Concepts in Chemistry paper and continuous academic support.
The University of Otago, through its Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU), offers this scholarship to foster Pacific student success in health careers. The scholarship covers tuition fees and residential college costs, along with tutorials and resources to help students thrive in their first year.
Benefits of POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship 2026
- Standard value of ~$2,500
- Payment covers tuition fees of the CHEM 191 paper and towards the cost of staying in a Residential College for the 2-week period on campus
- Additional resources, tutorials, and academic support throughout enrolment in CHEM 191
- May be held concurrently with any other University of Otago Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship where applicable
Eligibility Criteria for the POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship 2026
- Open to all students who are of indigenous Pacific decent
- Hold either New Zealand citizenship, or a New Zealand Residence Class Visa
How to Apply for the POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship 2026
- Submit the official application form by the specified due date
- Submit a separate application to enrol in the CHEM 150 paper in Summer School, as well as 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 Chemistry Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship?
The POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship is run through the Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU) at the University of Otago. It supports Pacific students to prepare for the CHEM 191 Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health paper, as part of Health Sciences First Year (HSFY).
What is the value of the scholarship?
The standard value of the scholarship is approximately NZ $2,500. Payment is made towards the tuition fees of the CHEM 191 paper and the cost of staying in a Residential College for the required 2-week campus period.
How many scholarships are offered?
Five scholarships are offered each year.
Who is eligible to apply?
The 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.
What is the closing date for applications?
The closing date is 9 November for first round considerations.
What does the application process involve?
Every applicant must submit the official application form by the due date and submit a separate application to enrol in the CHEM 150 paper in Summer School, as well as the Health Sciences First Year programme at the University of Otago.
How are recipients selected?
The Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit 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.
What support is provided beyond the monetary value?
Additional resources, tutorials, and academic support throughout enrolment in CHEM 191 are also provided.
Can this scholarship be held with other scholarships?
Yes, this scholarship may be held concurrently with any other University of Otago Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship where applicable.
Where can I find the application form?
The POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship application form is available as a PDF download on the University of Otago scholarship page.
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