Country New Zealand
Level phd, masters
Organization University of Otago
Field Biomedical sciences, Genetics and genomics, Neuroscience, Public health, Marine science, Sustainability and environment, Social sciences, Humanities, Business and economics, Law
Funding fully funded Overview
The University of Otago in New Zealand offers over 153 fully-funded scholarships for doctoral (PhD and Professional Doctorate) and research master's degrees. These opportunities are open to both domestic and international students, including those from Ethiopia. The scholarships aim to support postgraduate students conducting research across various disciplines at New Zealand's oldest university, known for its research excellence and high graduate employment rates.
Coverage
Doctoral Scholarship (PhD and Professional Doctorate):
* An annual stipend of NZ$34,128 to cover living expenses.
* A tuition fee waiver for up to 36 months. This waiver is capped at the domestic tuition rate; international students may need to pay the difference between domestic and international fees.
* Additional support funding for doctoral research may also be available.
Research Master's Scholarship:
* An NZ$18,204 stipend for one year.
* A tuition fee waiver for one year, covering course fees.
Eligibility
General:
* Open to domestic and international students.
* Applicants should normally apply for the scholarship concurrently with their admission application.
For Doctoral Scholarship:
* Must be seeking to attain your first doctoral qualification.
* Must have completed a Master's degree with papers and a thesis of at least 0.75 EFTS (Equivalent Full-Time Study), or equivalent advanced-level papers.
* Academic excellence, demonstrated research potential, and a strong research record (e.g., publications, presentations) are considered.
* A recommendation and ranking from the relevant Head of Department are required.
For Research Master's Scholarship:
* Similar academic excellence criteria apply as for doctoral scholarships.
* You must be enrolled in or applying for a research-focused master's program.
Requirements
* Completed admission application for the relevant doctoral or master's program.
* Academic transcripts from all previous tertiary qualifications.
* Degree certificates (Bachelor's and Master's degrees).
* CV/Resume highlighting research experience and publications.
* A research proposal outlining your intended research project.
* Two academic reference letters supporting your research potential.
* Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous university) for international applicants. Minimum scores vary by program; check the university website for specific requirements.
* Academic credential evaluation may be required for international applicants (check with the university).
How to apply
1. **Check Eligibility**: Review the academic and research requirements to confirm you meet the criteria.
2. **Find a Supervisor**: Identify and contact a potential supervisor in your research area to discuss your research proposal and secure their support. This step is strongly recommended before applying.
3. **Prepare Documents**: Gather all required documents, including transcripts, certificates, CV, research proposal, reference letters, and English proficiency proof.
4. **Complete Admission Application**: Visit the University of Otago website (https://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships/university-of-otago-doctoral-scholarship) and complete the online application for admission to your chosen doctoral or research master's program through the eVision portal.
5. **Submit Admission Application**: Upload all required documents and submit your admission application.
6. **Receive Scholarship Invitation**: After submitting your admission application, an invitation to apply for the scholarship will be sent to your eVision portal. Complete the scholarship application form within the portal.
7. **Wait for Review**: Scholarship applications are considered in quarterly review rounds, which take place in March, June, September, and November. You will be notified of the outcome after the relevant round.
8. **Accept Offer and Enroll**: If successful, accept the scholarship offer, complete enrollment formalities, and arrange your student visa if you are an international student.
Notes
* There is no fixed application deadline; applications are accepted year-round and reviewed quarterly.
* The scholarships are competitive, but many awards are available. A strong academic record and demonstrated research potential are key factors for success.
* International students should be aware of the potential difference in tuition fees between domestic and international rates, as the tuition waiver is capped at the domestic rate.
