Scholarship inclusions
These awards cover registration costs ($725), as well as travel (bus or plane tickets) to and from Hands-On at Otago.
2027 Scholarships
Arts and Social Sciences Scholarships
Scholarships are available for students participating in selected Arts and Social Sciences projects at Hands-On at Otago 2027. These scholarships cover the full registration fee, as well as travel to and from the event.
Scholarships will be awarded to students who select an Arts and Social Sciences project as part of their application and are interested in pursuing further study in these subject areas.
Projects available in 2027 include Education, Law, Media, Film and Communication, Politics, Theatre and Dance and Arts and Social Sciences.
Imagine Beyond Scholarships
Scholarships are available from the University of Otago Disability Information and Support Office, for students who have a disability, impairment or medical condition. Students who may be eligible are encouraged to discuss their application with their school’s Careers Adviser.
The scholarship covers the programme fee, including accommodation, meals, and travel to and from Dunedin.
International Scholarships
The International Office at the University of Otago offers the International Hands-On at Otago scholarships. These are fully funded scholarships that provide a fantastic opportunity for international students currently studying at a New Zealand secondary school (entering Year 12 or 13 in 2027) to participate in the Hands-On at Otago programme.
Each scholarship covers travel, accommodation, meals and programme activities for the week.
Otago Business Scholarships
Otago Business School offers scholarships that cover the full registration cost plus travel to and from Hands-On at Otago 2027 (up to a maximum total value of $1,500).
This scholarship will be offered to those who have selected business projects in their application and are looking to pursue further study in business.
The business projects offered at Hands-On 2027 are Marketing and Business at Otago.
Pacific Islands Scholarships
The Pacific Islands Centre at the University of Otago offer full scholarships for students of Pacific Islands descent.
The scholarship covers the programme fee, which includes accommodation and food, and travel to and from Dunedin. The aim of the scholarship is to inspire and motivate young Pacific students who have a passion for learning and wish to develop their knowledge and skills alongside many other students who share their interests.
Poutama Scholarship
Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka is proud to offer the Poutama Scholarship for tauira of Māori descent to take part in the exciting, week-long Hands-On at Otago | Whai Wheako i Ōtākou experience.
This scholarship is designed to inspire and uplift rakatahi Māori – removing financial barriers and supporting them to grow their mātauraka, build skills, and ignite a passion for tertiary study. The Poutama Scholarship covers the programme fee, including accommodation, meals as well as travel to and from Ōtepoti Dunedin, making it easy to experience university life firsthand.
Te Ara Hauora Scholarships
The Māori Health Workforce Development Unit offers full Hands-On scholarships for Māori students interested in exploring Health Sciences or Science-based projects as part of their study journey.
This scholarship is designed to support and inspire rangatahi Māori who are keen to pursue further Health Science studies. It’s an opportunity to grow your knowledge and skills, connect with like-minded students, and take the next step toward a future in health.
2027 Awards
In addition to Hands-On at Otago scholarships, a number of other awards are available.
These awards cover registration costs ($725), as well as travel (bus or plane tickets) to and from Hands-On at Otago.
You do not need to apply for awards; eligibility is based on being selected for the Hands-On at Otago programme and meeting the specific criteria set by each award provider.
Canon Hands-On Awards
Canon has proudly supported Hands-on at Otago since 2014. As part of this partnership, Canon offers six surprise awards annually to students selected to attend the programme.
These awards are not application-based. Eligibility is determined by successful selection into the Hands-on at Otago programme and enrolment at a New Zealand secondary school with an Equity Index of 479 or higher. Each award covers the student’s programme registration fee and return flights to Dunedin to attend Hands-on at Otago.
Mirrors on Society Hands-On Awards
Funded by the University of Otago’s External Engagement Division, the Mirrors on Society Awards recognise outstanding students who have demonstrated academic promise, leadership, commitment, or contribution to their communities. In some cases, the award may provide financial assistance to support participation in the programme.
Va’a O Tautai Hands-On Awards
Supporting Pacific students with an interest in Health Sciences.
Sponsorship
Rotary, Lions club, etc.
Many students who attend Hands-On at Otago are able to obtain either full or partial sponsorship.
If students require financial assistance, we suggest they contact a local service group (such as Rotary) or their School Board of Trustees. Teachers or school principals may be able to provide assistance in approaching these groups.
Please note it is important to start this process when you apply for Hands-On at Otago as it takes some time and you need to have funding arranged before payment is due in October.