How do I apply?
Student applications for 2021 are now open.
You need to:
- apply at the end of Year 12 for intake during Year 13;
- have a strong interest and passion for science, and the potential to excel at NCEA Level 3 / New Zealand Scholarship equivalent;
- be willing to develop your science communication and teamwork skills;
- be nominated by your school, which must fulfil one or more of the following criteria:
- Small (<150 pupils),
- Rural / provincial,
- Lower decile (1–6).
If that sounds like you, then contact your school's Head of Science, who will need to complete a Nominating Teacher Application Form on your behalf.
You then need to complete a Student Application Form telling us about yourself and why you want to join the Science Academy. For more information about the Science Academy programme and how to apply, please see the following document:
We would also like you to write a short essay telling us your thoughts on Science in the 21st century. More details about the essay can be found in the following document:
How much does it cost?
Science Academy (OUASSA) is wholly funded by the University of Otago.
We will pay your:
- residential costs (including meals) while on campus,
- flights / travel to and from Dunedin.
All we ask you to contribute is a NZ$225 commitment fee. Your school or local service club may be able to with this. (The University will give consideration to waiving part or all of the commitment fee in cases of extreme financial hardship.)
2021 Māori and Pacific Science Academy (OUASSA) Scholarships
We have 5 Māori and 5 Pacific student scholarships for our 2021 cohort.
These scholarships are aimed at supporting potentially high achieving Māori and Pacific students for whom the $225 commitment fee is a barrier. All travel and accommodation costs covered also.
If this sounds like you, go and see your science teacher now about applying.
Key dates for 2021 intake
11 September
Application and Nomination forms for the following year are sent to participating schools and posted on the website.
16 October
Closing date for nomination and application forms.
Early November
An email will be sent to all Nominating Teachers advising whether or not their students have been accepted.
Successful students will then be sent a final registration pack. This will include details of the Science Camp project options, contact telephone numbers, travel arrangements and terms and conditions forms to be completed and returned.
Does Science Academy (OUASSA) cater for students with a disability?
If you meet the above criteria and have a disability, you are also encouraged to apply for Science Academy (OUASSA).
Additional support may be available to students who require it.
I am from out of town – how will we make travel arrangements?
We arrange all your travel. Details will be sent out following your letter of acceptance.
All participants travelling by bus or plane are met when they arrive in Dunedin, and will be taken back to the bus station or airport to connect with their homeward transport.
How do I get in touch with you?
Our contact page has all our contact details.
