Thinking about a thesis-based Master’s in New Zealand? The University of Otago’s International Master’s Research Scholarship helps high-achieving international students fund the thesis part of their degree at one of the country’s oldest research universities.
At a glance
- What it covers: NZ$18,204 stipend (per annum) + a tuition fee waiver for the thesis component (up to NZ$35,000; capped at the domestic rate). Student services fee and insurance are not included. (University of Otago)
- Number of awards: 4 per year (typically one per Division: Commerce, Health Sciences, Humanities, Sciences). (University of Otago)
- Who can apply: International students, first Master’s qualification, thesis-based Master’s only. Selection focuses on academic merit and research potential. (University of Otago)
- When to apply: Anytime; applications are reviewed quarterly on 1 March, 1 June, 1 September, 1 November. (University of Otago)
- Competitiveness: Otago recommends applying only if your recent grades are at an A or A+ level. (University of Otago)
Important notes
- The scholarship supports only the thesis year (up to 1 year full-time). Pre-thesis coursework/papers aren’t covered. (University of Otago)
- Because the tuition waiver is capped at NZ$35,000 (domestic rate), you may still have a remaining tuition balance to pay as an international student. Check your programme’s international fees. (University of Otago)
Eligibility (summary)
- International student
- Enrolling in your first Master’s
- Thesis-based Master’s programme
- Strong academic record; selection based on grades and research potential (University of Otago)
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Apply for admission to your thesis-based Master’s at Otago (via eVision).
- Watch for a scholarship alert in eVision:
- If your degree is thesis-only or your thesis starts immediately, you’ll be invited to apply after you apply for admission.
- If your degree is papers + thesis, you’ll be invited just before you enrol in the thesis paper.
- Complete the scholarship application in My Scholarships and Awards within eVision. (University of Otago, ask.otago.ac.nz)
Tips to strengthen your application
- Demonstrate A/A+-level performance in your most recent study and highlight research outputs/potential (e.g., projects, publications, conference work). (University of Otago)
- Align your proposed thesis with Division strengths and secure informal supervisor interest early.
- If coming from overseas systems, review Otago’s international grade conversion to understand how your GPA will be assessed. (University of Otago)
Official page
University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship:
https://www.otago.ac.nz/courses/scholarships/university-of-otago-international-masters-research-scholarship
