University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship 2026

Brief Description:

Established by the University of Otago Council in 2011 to assist new undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential and leadership capabilities to attend the University of Otago.

Eligibility for the University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship:

• Candidates applying for University Of Otago Academic Excellence Scholarships should be citizens and or permanent residents of New Zealand or should have completed Year 12 or have completed or should be in the process of completing Year 13 at any New Zealand school.
• Applicants should intend to enroll in a full-time undergraduate degree at the University of Otago and should have a minimum of NCEA Level 2 with excellence commendation.
• Applicants for the University Of Otago Academic Excellence Scholarships should submit details of involvement in school, community, sports, or cultural pursuits.
• Applicants must have involvement in activities at school, in the community, and/or in sports and cultural pursuits in which leadership has been shown.

Application Process:

Students need to submit an application form to the university to be eligible for the scholarship.

Selection Criteria:

• Candidates will be assessed based on their academic excellence and leadership skills.
• The students should maintain a GPA of 7.0 or better (B+) for the previous year to continue receiving the scholarship for the second and third years.

Value of the Scholarship:

Students will receive accommodation fees in a Residential College (at least $20,000) plus tuition fees (if not eligible for Fees Free) in First Year. $7,000 towards tuition fees in Second and Third Year (subject to conditions).