Studying in New Zealand is a strong choice for international students who want a peaceful academic environment, respected supervision, and a serious research-focused degree. The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for students who are ready to complete a thesis-based Master’s programme at one of New Zealand’s well-known research universities.
This scholarship is especially useful for students with strong academic results and clear research potential. It helps selected international students focus on their thesis work by offering financial support through a yearly stipend and a tuition fee waiver for the research component of their Master’s degree.
Brief Description
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship |
| Study Country | New Zealand |
| Host University | University of Otago |
| Degree Level Offered | Research Master’s Degree / Thesis-based Master’s programme |
| Eligible Applicants | International students |
| Award Value | NZ$18,204 stipend per annum |
| Tuition Support | Tuition fee waiver for 1 year, capped at NZ$35,000 |
| Duration | Up to 1 year full-time enrolment |
| Number of Awards | 4, normally one scholarship per Academic Division |
| Selection Basis | Academic merit and research potential |
| Application Status | Applicants can apply anytime |
| Review Dates | 1 March, 1 June, 1 September, and 1 November |
| Next Remaining 2026 Dates | 1 September 2026 and 1 November 2026 |
| Official Website | University of Otago scholarship page |
Subjects Offered
The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is available for research fields offered through the University of Otago’s academic divisions. Since the scholarship is normally awarded as one scholarship per Academic Division, applicants from different research areas may be considered depending on programme availability, thesis structure, and academic supervision.
Students may explore research opportunities in areas connected with Health Sciences, Humanities, Sciences, Commerce, and other postgraduate research fields available at the University of Otago. Applicants should select a field that matches their previous academic background, research interest, and long-term career goals.
Degree Offered
The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is offered for a thesis-based Master’s programme. It is not intended for ordinary coursework-only study, short courses, undergraduate degrees, or non-research postgraduate programmes.
This scholarship supports the thesis component of a Master’s Research degree for up to one year of full-time enrolment. Students should carefully check their programme structure because the award may apply only to the research thesis stage, not necessarily to every part of the full Master’s programme.
Benefit
The scholarship provides NZ$18,204 per year as a stipend, along with a tuition fee waiver for one year capped at NZ$35,000 for Master’s study. This financial support can help international students manage study costs while completing the thesis component of their research degree.
Students should note that the scholarship excludes student services fees and insurance. Depending on the selected programme, the tuition waiver may only partially cover tuition fees, and students will be responsible for paying any remaining amount above the NZ$35,000 waiver.
Eligible Nationality
The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is open to international students who are enrolling in a thesis-based Master’s programme at the University of Otago. Applicants must meet the university’s international admission and enrolment requirements.
Students from different countries may apply if they meet the scholarship rules and are undertaking their first Master’s qualification. International applicants should also prepare for visa requirements, insurance costs, living expenses, and any tuition amount not covered by the scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be international students, must be obtaining their first Master’s qualification, and must be undertaking a thesis-based Master’s programme. These are the main conditions for this scholarship and should be checked carefully before applying.
Selection is based mainly on academic merit and the applicant’s potential for research. A strong application should show excellent academic performance, a suitable research direction, and readiness to complete a Master’s-level thesis at the University of Otago.
How to Apply for International Master’s Research Scholarship
Applicants can apply for the University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship through the official University of Otago scholarship process. Before applying, students should confirm that their Master’s programme is thesis-based and that they meet the scholarship eligibility requirements.
Applications can be submitted anytime, but they are reviewed four times a year on 1 March, 1 June, 1 September, and 1 November. Students should prepare academic records, research details, and supporting documents before the nearest review date.
Apply Now
The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is a useful funding opportunity for international students planning a thesis-based Master’s degree in New Zealand. It offers a yearly stipend and a tuition fee waiver that can support students during the research stage of their programme.
Students can read complete details and apply through the official scholarship page here: University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship.
