The University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, New Zealand’s oldest university, is offering the prestigious International Partnership Scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic year.
This scholarship celebrates and welcomes international students as valued members of the University community and provides substantial financial support to those coming to study through one of Otago’s approved articulation partner agreements.
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About the University of Otago
Earn Your Degree at New Zealand’s Top University: Apply for Otago’s International Partnership Scholarship 2025
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is a research-led university located in Dunedin, New Zealand. It is consistently ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across four academic divisions:
- Business School
- Division of Health Sciences
- Division of Humanities
- Division of Sciences
Otago is known for its vibrant student life, beautiful campus, and world-class facilities. The university has a strong international focus and welcomes students from over 100 countries.
International Partnership Scholarship Details
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the International Partnership Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have completed secondary (high) school, or attended another approved institution that grants University Entrance overseas (outside of New Zealand).
- Intend to enroll or have already enrolled in full-time, degree-level undergraduate study at the University of Otago.
- Be planning to undertake a minimum of four semesters of study at Otago.
- Study on campus throughout the duration of their studies.
- Be applying to study through one of the University’s approved articulation partner agreements.
Scholarship Value
The International Partnership Scholarship provides a generous tuition fee credit of NZD $10,000 (approximately USD $6,500).
For students commencing their studies in Semester 1 (February 2025), the full scholarship amount will be credited towards their tuition fees.
Those starting in Semester 2 (July 2025) will receive half the scholarship funds (NZD $5,000) in their first semester, with the remaining half applied in Semester 1 of the following year.
Selection Process
Selection of scholarship recipients is based on academic potential, as demonstrated by previous results from a partner institution. The number of scholarships awarded varies each year.
How to Apply
Eligible students must indicate their interest in being considered for international scholarships at the University of Otago when submitting their application for study through the student management system (eVision).Click here to apply now
Application Deadlines
- Semester 1 (February 2025 start): 10 December 2024
- Semester 2 (July 2025 start): 30 April 2025
Why Study at the University of Otago?
Academic Excellence
The University of Otago is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. In the 2023 QS World University Rankings, Otago placed 194th globally and 2nd in New Zealand. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in health sciences, life sciences, and humanities.Some notable academic highlights include:
- Otago’s Dunedin School of Medicine is the oldest medical school in New Zealand and one of the most research-intensive in the world.
- The university is home to New Zealand’s only dental school.
- Otago’s Department of Psychology is ranked in the top 30 worldwide.
- The Department of Philosophy is ranked in the top 100 globally.
Research Impact
As a research-led university, Otago is committed to producing high-quality, impactful research across all disciplines. The university has over 4,000 active researchers and more than 1,200 research projects underway at any given time.Some recent research highlights include:
- Otago researchers developed a groundbreaking new treatment for people with drug-resistant tuberculosis.
- A team of Otago scientists discovered a new way to halt the spread of cancer cells, with potential implications for future cancer treatments.
- Researchers from the Department of Psychology found that social media use can negatively impact adolescents’ mental health and well-being.
Student Support Services
The University of Otago offers a wide range of support services to ensure students have a positive and successful university experience. These include:
- Academic support: The Student Learning Centre provides free resources, workshops, and one-on-one consultations to help students develop their academic skills.
- Health and well-being: Student Health Services offers comprehensive healthcare, counseling, and mental health support.
- Career development: The Career Development Centre assists students with career planning, job search strategies, and employment opportunities.
- Disability support: Disability Information and Support provides advice, advocacy, and assistance to students with disabilities.
- Māori and Pacific student support: The Office of Māori Development and the Pacific Islands Centre offer cultural, academic, and pastoral support to Māori and Pacific students.
Campus Life and Accommodation
Otago’s Dunedin campus is renowned for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant student culture. The campus is home to over 20,000 students from more than 100 countries, creating a diverse and inclusive community.
The university offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, including:
- Residential colleges: Otago has 15 residential colleges that provide a supportive living and learning environment. Colleges offer a range of room types, from single rooms to shared apartments, as well as meals, social activities, and academic support.
- Flatting: Many students choose to live in private rental accommodation (known as flatting) after their first year. The university’s Accommodation Office provides resources and advice to help students find suitable flats.
- Homestay: For international students who want to experience life with a local family, homestay accommodation is available through the university’s approved providers.
Dunedin and the Otago Region
Dunedin is a vibrant, student-friendly city located on the southeast coast of New Zealand’s South Island.
The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thriving arts and culture scene.Some highlights of living in Dunedin include:
- Attending music and arts festivals like the Dunedin Fringe Festival and the Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival
- Exploring the city’s many museums and galleries, such as the Otago Museum and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery
- Enjoying the beautiful outdoors, with easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife reserves
- Trying the local cuisine, including fresh seafood, craft beer, and artisanal chocolate
The wider Otago region is known for its stunning natural beauty, with highlights like the Otago Peninsula, the Catlins coast, and the Southern Alps. Students can take advantage of the region’s many outdoor activities, such as skiing, surfing, mountain biking, and hiking.
Alumni Success Stories
Graduates of the University of Otago have gone on to achieve success in a wide range of fields, both in New Zealand and internationally. Some notable alumni include:
- Richie McCaw, former captain of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team
- Sylvia Earle, renowned marine biologist and explorer
- David Kirk, former Prime Minister of New Zealand
- Annette King, former Deputy Leader of the New Zealand Labour Party
- Janet Frame, acclaimed New Zealand author
Conclusion
The International Partnership Scholarship at the University of Otago provides an incredible opportunity for international students to receive a world-class education in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
With its commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and outstanding student support, Otago offers a truly life-changing study abroad experience.
To learn more about the International Partnership Scholarship and studying at the University of Otago, visit the official scholarship page or contact the International Office today.
Don’t miss your chance to join the ranks of Otago’s successful alumni – apply now for the International Partnership Scholarship and take the first step towards an unforgettable study abroad experience in New Zealand!
