University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship

University of Otago

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Domestic and international students seeking their first doctoral qualification (PhD or professional doctorate), selected mainly on academic merit and research potential. The page lists the tuition waiver as domestic fees only, so check how this applies to your fee status.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The University of Otago offers funded places to outstanding international PhD candidates, usually covering tuition fees and a living stipend, with several selection rounds a year.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Domestic and international students seeking their first doctoral qualification (PhD or professional doctorate), selected mainly on academic merit and research potential. The page lists the tuition waiver as domestic fees only, so check how this applies to your fee status.
2. Note the deadline. Rolling (applicants can apply anytime; no fixed rounds) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. "Rolling" or "varies" does not mean unlimited time. Funds are awarded as applications are reviewed, so apply early.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship?

Domestic and international students seeking their first doctoral qualification (PhD or professional doctorate), selected mainly on academic merit and research potential. The page lists the tuition waiver as domestic fees only, so check how this applies to your fee status.

What does University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship cover?

A stipend of NZ$32,544 a year plus a waiver of domestic tuition fees for 36 months (the waiver excludes the student services fee and insurance); up to 164 scholarships a year

When is the deadline for University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship?

Rolling (applicants can apply anytime; no fixed rounds) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship?

Host countries: New Zealand.

What documents do I need for University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship application?

High: PhD Admission Application + Research Proposal + Faculty Endorsement