University of Otago Global Scholarship 2025

Scholarship Details

• Value: NZ$15,000 (approximately USD$9,000 or INR 7.5 lakhs) as a tuition fee credit, applied toward the first year of undergraduate study. This amount significantly reduces the financial burden for international students, though it does not cover living expenses, accommodation, or other costs.

• Eligible Countries: The scholarship is open to students of all nationalities.

• Eligible Programs: All full-time undergraduate degree programs at the University of Otago are eligible, with priority given to certain programs (specific programs may vary, so check the university’s scholarship page for details).

• Duration: The scholarship is a one-time award for the first year of study, non-renewable for subsequent years.

Eligibility Criteria

• International Status: Must be international students who have completed secondary (high) school or equivalent qualifications outside New Zealand. New Zealand citizens, permanent residents or students who studied in New Zealand are ineligible.

• First-Time Enrollment: Must be applying for their first undergraduate degree at the University of Otago and not have previously enrolled in a degree program at Otago or another New Zealand university.

• Academic Requirements: Must meet the university’s academic entry requirements, typically a minimum overall average of 75–80% in secondary school (equivalent to Indian CBSE/ICSE 75–80% or A-levels with strong grades). Specific programs may have higher requirements.

• English Proficiency: Must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like:
  • IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80 (writing score of 20)
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50 (no communicative skill below 42)
  • Other equivalent tests are accepted (e.g., Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English).

• Program Enrollment: Must intend to enroll in a full-time undergraduate program starting in Semester 1 (February 2025).

Application Process

• Application Method: Applicants do not need a separate scholarship application. Instead, they indicate their interest in the scholarship via the international scholarships section of their study application on the University of Otago’s eVision student management system (https://evision.otago.ac.nz).

• Steps:
  1. Apply for admission to an undergraduate program through the eVision portal.
  2. Complete the international scholarships section during the application process to be considered for the Global Scholarship.
  3. Submit required documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a copy of your passport.
• Deadline: Varies by program-prospective. students should check the specific admission deadlines on the university’s official website.
• Selection Process: The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and potential. The university’s admissions team reviews applications, prioritizing students with strong academic records and alignment with eligible programs. Due to the competitive nature, meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection.
• Notification: Successful applicants are typically notified alongside their admission offer.

Additional Notes

• Visa Requirements: Scholarship recipients are responsible for securing a New Zealand student visa, including covering the visa application fee (NZD 375, approximately INR 18,951). The scholarship does not cover visa-related costs.

 

• Other Costs: The scholarship covers only a portion of tuition fees. Students must budget for additional expenses, such as:
  • Accommodation: NZ$15,000–20,000 per year (university flats or private rentals).
  • Living expenses: NZ$10,000–15,000 per year (food, transport, etc.).
  • Health insurance: Mandatory for international students, approximately NZ$600–1,000 per year.

 

• Other Scholarships: The University of Otago offers additional scholarships, such as the Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships for New Zealand-based international students or the Callis Trust Performance Scholarship, which may be stackable or available for other criteria. Check the university’s scholarship page for details (https://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships).

 

Why Apply?

• Reduces financial barriers for studying at a globally top-ranked university (ranked in the top 1% worldwide, QS World University Rankings).
• Provides access to a prestigious institution with a strong academic reputation and vibrant student life.
• Offers an opportunity to study in New Zealand, known for its safe environment, cultural diversity, and stunning natural scenery.

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About the University of Otago

• Name: University of Otago (Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka in Māori)
• Established: 1869, making it New Zealand’s oldest university.
• Location: Dunedin, South Island, New Zealand, with additional campuses in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland, and Invercargill.

• Global Ranking: Ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2025) and #2 in New Zealand based on Shiksha rankings.

• Student Population: Approximately 21,000 students, including 3,982 international students (56.4% of total enrollment in 2024).
• Motto: Sapere Aude (Dare to be wise).

Academic Reputation

• Programs: Offers over 145 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines, including:
  • Health Sciences (renowned for medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy)
  • Sciences (e.g., Applied Science, Geophysics, Molecular Biology)
  • Humanities (e.g., Māori Studies, Psychology, Mass Communication)
  • Business (e.g., Otago MBA, Economics)

 

• Research Excellence: Known for research-intensive teaching, with academics at the forefront of fields like health sciences, psychology, and Māori studies. The university hosts world-class research facilities, particularly in health sciences.

• Teaching Quality: Faculty combine scholarly research with teaching, ensuring students gain cutting-edge knowledge. The university is praised for its high-quality education and global employability.

• Acceptance Rate: 60–70%, indicating a selective admissions process.

Campus and Facilities

• Main Campus: Located in Dunedin, a coastal city known for its vibrant student community and natural beauty. The campus blends historic Gothic architecture with modern facilities, centrally located within walking distance of Dunedin’s shopping and cultural hubs.

 

• Accommodation: Options include:
  • Colleges of Residence (catered, community-focused, NZ$15,000–18,000/year).
  • Self-catering flats (shared with Kiwi and international students, NZ$10,000–15,000/year).

  • Most study abroad and international students live in university-managed flats, fostering a “Kiwi” experience.
• Facilities:
  • Libraries, museums, and art galleries on campus.
  • Sports facilities, including gyms and recreational centers.
  • Dedicated international student support services, including academic advising and visa assistance.

• Cultural Highlights: Dunedin offers museums, craft centers, and proximity to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and surfing on the South Island.

• Community: Otago is renowned for its vibrant campus lifestyle, rated highly by students for its sense of community. Students live close to campus, fostering a tight-knit environment.

• Cultural Diversity: With 56.4% international students, the university is a global hub, offering cultural exchange opportunities like the UO-Otago Indigenous Studies Exchange (ISE) for Native American and Māori studies.
• Clubs and Societies: Over 150 student clubs, ranging from academic societies to cultural and recreational groups (e.g., Otago University Students’ Association).

• Events: The university hosts Global Opportunities Week for student exchanges and cultural events, enhancing global exposure.

Admission Requirements for International Students

• Academic: Minimum 75–80% average in secondary school (e.g., CBSE/ICSE for Indian students) or equivalent (e.g., A-levels, IB Diploma). Some programs require SAT/ACT scores.

• English Proficiency: IELTS (6.0), TOEFL iBT (80), or PTE Academic (50) as minimum requirements.

• Additional Requirements: Certain programs (e.g., health sciences) may require interviews, portfolios, or work experience. PhD applicants need a research proposal.

• Application Portal: Apply via eVision (https://evision.otago.ac.nz). Deadlines vary by program, with February 2025 intake applications due by December 10, 2024.

Tuition and Costs

• Undergraduate Tuition: NZ$26,000–40,000 per year (INR 13.09–21.28 lakhs) for international students, depending on the program. Health sciences and specialized programs like the Otago MBA (NZ$65,000, INR 39.17 lakhs) are more expensive.
• Total Cost: Including accommodation, living expenses, and insurance, international students should budget NZ$40,000–60,000 per year (INR 20–30 lakhs).
• Financial Aid: Beyond the Global Scholarship, options include:

  • Nokia Visiting Professor Scholarships (for research in ICT).

  • Education Future International Scholarship (for Indian nationals, INR 2–10 lakhs).
  • Other external scholarships like Chevening or DAAD for postgraduate studies.

Why Choose Otago?

• Global Recognition: Top 1% globally, with strong programs in health sciences, psychology, and Māori studies.
• Safe and Scenic Location: Dunedin is a student-friendly, coastal city with a low crime rate and access to New Zealand’s natural wonders.
• Support for International Students: Dedicated offices provide visa guidance, academic support, and cultural integration programs.
• Career Opportunities: High employability due to industry-focused programs and global alumni network.

Additional Opportunities

• Summer Research Scholarship 2025/2026: For undergraduate students interested in health sciences research, offering a NZ$7,000 stipend for 10 weeks. Applications open in July 2025, with a deadline of August 14, 2025.

• UO-Otago Indigenous Studies Exchange: Fully funded for select students to study Native American and Māori studies, covering tuition, room, board, and airfare (deadline: January 24, 2025).

• Graduate and Doctoral Scholarships: Over 200 scholarships, such as the University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships (NZ$27,000 stipend + tuition waiver), are available for advanced studies, with rolling applications.