The International Academic Excellence Scholarship 2026/27 is now open for high-achieving international students who have completed secondary school overseas and are planning to commence full-time undergraduate study at the University of Otago in New Zealand. This prestigious award celebrates outstanding academic performance and supports students in becoming valued members of the Otago community.
Highly competitive and merit-based, the scholarship provides significant financial support over multiple years, helping students focus on academic success, leadership development, and global engagement.
SUMMARY:
- Scholarship Sponsor(s): University of Otago
- Scholarship to be taken at: New Zealand
- Scholarship Worth: $35,000 per year + Tuition cover
- Number of Awards: 10 per year
- Study Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Nationality: International students
Program Overview | University of Otago International Excellence Scholarship 2026/27
The International Academic Excellence Scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement among international students who plan to study on campus at the University of Otago from first year through degree completion. Applicants are considered after applying for admission and indicating interest in international scholarships during the online application process.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must:
- Have completed secondary (high) school or equivalent outside New Zealand, granting university entrance.
- Be intending to enrol in full-time undergraduate degree study at the University of Otago.
- Plan to study on campus throughout the duration of the degree programme.
- Indicate interest in international scholarships in the University’s student portal (eVision).
Diploma and certificate programmes do not qualify for this award.
Scholarship Benefits
- Approximate total value of $35,000 over three years.
- Year 1: Accommodation fee waiver at a University-owned or University-affiliated residential college (standard room rate).
- Years 2 & 3: $7,000 towards tuition and student services fees each year, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
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How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates for the University of Otago International Excellence Scholarship 2026/27 should take the following steps to apply;
- Apply for admission to an undergraduate degree programme at the University of Otago via student management system (eVision).
- In your application, please indicate that you want to be considered for international scholarships.
- Once you have accepted an offer of place (for example, a Global Scholarship or Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship), eligible candidates will be invited in eVision to apply for the International Academic Excellence Scholarship.
- Complete and submit the additional scholarship application questions and requested documentation.
Application Documents
Applicants will typically need to provide:
- Academic transcripts/certificates from secondary school
- Evidence of university entrance qualification
- Any additional information requested via the application portal
Specific requirements may be detailed in your invitation to apply.
Application Deadline / Timeline
- Applications open 1 May in the year prior to study commencement.
- Eligible candidates are invited to apply after receiving an offer of place; the invitation to apply generally must be completed within two weeks of being issued.
Check eVision for exact deadlines as they relate to your admission.