The University of Otago provides funding for international students pursuing a first research-based master’s degree with a thesis. The next application deadline after June 11 is September 1, 2026.
The University of Otago provides funding for international students pursuing a first research-based master’s degree with a thesis. The next application deadline after June 11 is September 1, 2026.
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The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship 2026 is a scholarship opportunity offered by the University of Otago. The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship supports international students pursuing their first thesis-based master’s degree in New Zealand. This SkillReFlex fact sheet summarizes the key information you need to make a quick and informed decision: target audience, funding details, timeline, required documents, application process, and important considerations before applying. Program Objective : The scholarship aims to attract strong academic candidates and fund their research potential by reducing the burden of tuition and living expenses during the thesis year. Application Process - Applications may be submitted at any time, but they are reviewed during four annual cycles. Applicants must ensure they meet admission, supervision, and departmental requirements prior to the targeted cycle. Before submitting your application, review the official page to confirm the exact format, attendance requirements, time zones, uncovered expenses, visa or mobility restrictions, and guidelines specific to your country or category. Funding and Benefits : The announced support is as follows: An annual stipend of 18,204 NZD plus a waiver of thesis fees up to 35,000 NZD for one year of research-based master’s study, excluding student service fees and insurance. Key points to remember: Annual stipend of 18,204 NZD; Waiver of thesis fees up to 35,000 NZD for one year; Regular examination periods in March, June, September, and November; Open to international students; selection based primarily on academic merit and research potential. When a program combines support, training, awards, travel, visibility, or funding, always distinguish between what is guaranteed, competitive, or contingent on a subsequent stage. Eligibility Requirements : This opportunity is aimed at international students pursuing their first master’s degree with a thesis component, who can demonstrate excellent academic and research potential. The main criteria to verify are: Being an international student; Pursuing your first master’s degree; Enrolling in a master’s program with a thesis component; Having an excellent academic record; Having a research project or supervision compatible with Otago; Meeting the eVision and departmental requirements for the chosen program. Timeline - The date set for public announcement is: applications accepted at any time; next intake after June 11: September 1, 2026. Official guidelines: Applications may be submitted at any time; Review cycles: March 1, June 1, September 1, and November 1; Next cycle following June 11, 2026: September 1, 2026. If the source mentions multiple application rounds, categories, countries, or time zones, always confirm the date that applies to your situation before finalizing your application. Application : Recommended Procedure: Read the official page for the Master’s Research Scholarship; Identify the program and research department; Prepare your admission materials and academic documents; Submit via eVision or the applicable Otago process; Ensure that the departmental evaluation is complete before the targeted application round. Documents or information to prepare in advance include, in particular: Transcripts and diplomas; Research proposal or project (depending on the department); Proof of English proficiency if required; Academic resume; Supervision or admission information. Contact the department or a potential supervisor well in advance. Do not aim for the first day of September without allowing sufficient time for the departmental review. Clarify whether your master’s program is thesis-based to qualify for the international research master’s scholarship. Keep a copy of every document submitted, use a permanent email address, and verify that you receive a confirmation when the portal provides one. Important Note: This publication does not replace the official source. Verified information: Otago Master’s official page accessed on June 11, 2026; trimester system confirmed; Master’s tuition amount and fee waiver confirmed. Use only otago.ac.nz and Otago’s official admission systems. Check for uncovered costs: student services, insurance, and any remaining fees. Do not confuse this information sheet with the Otago doctoral scholarship, which has already been published separately on SkillReFlex. Apply only through the official channels listed and refuse any promise of admission in exchange for payment, any request for unlisted fees, or any contact that directs you away from official channels.
Official source
University of Otago Scholarships
https://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships/university-of-otago-international-masters-research-scholarship
Editorial verification
Verified on June 11, 2026
Internal editorial verification.
Next revalidation: Jun 13, 2026
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The University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship supports international students pursuing their first thesis-based master’s degree in New Zealand.
The scholarship aims to attract strong academic candidates and support their research potential by reducing the burden of tuition and living expenses during their thesis year.
Applications may be submitted at any time, but they are reviewed during four annual cycles. Applicants must familiarize themselves with the admission, supervision, and departmental requirements prior to the cycle they are targeting.
Strengths
Funding or support offered: An annual stipend of 18,204 NZD plus a waiver of thesis fees up to 35,000 NZD for one year of research-based master’s study, excluding student service fees and insurance. Applicants should review the official source to understand which costs are covered, which are personal expenses, what competitive awards are available, attendance requirements, and conditions specific to their country or category.
What the program offers
This opportunity is intended for international students pursuing their first master’s degree with a thesis component who can demonstrate excellent academic and research potential.
Criteria to Check
Dates may vary depending on category, country, time zone, or review cycle; the official source takes precedence.
Key Dates
Prepare the sections offline before opening the form. Portals sometimes close without saving drafts, especially as the deadline approaches.
Documents or information
The procedure below serves as a handy checklist. The official guidelines take precedence if a form adds a step, a document, or a specific rule.
Recommended Steps
These tips translate the official criteria into practical steps for preparing your application. They do not guarantee selection, but they help you avoid submitting vague or incomplete applications.
To strengthen the case
Best Practices
