A strategic review of the University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship Scheme is currently underway with the goal of realigning scholarship policy with changing needs, strengthening institutional research capacity, and better supporting a diverse, high-achieving doctoral community for the future.
During the review process, The University of Otago will resume quarterly allocation rounds for Doctoral Scholarships in 2026, with the first round commencing in March. However, there have been some changes to both the auto-awards and how the remaining scholarships will be awarded.
· From 1 January 2026, eligible students with a domestic Honours or Master’s degree seeking an auto-award will be expected to have achieved a GPA of 9 in the final year of their Honours degree or across their Master’s programme.
· Quarterly allocation rounds for non-auto-award applicants will begin again in March. The rounds will include Divisional recommendations, guided by strategic priorities and based on: the applicant’s research aptitude and experience; the proposed project and its innovation, public benefit, and collaboration potential (internal, external and international); and the ability for the project to be adequately supported and resourced, including the suitability and track record of the supervisory team.
· Māori and Pacific Doctoral scholarships will continue to be available with settings to be confirmed.
Doctoral scholarships at the University of Otago are tenable for a period of three years with fulltime enrolment, and each award therefore represents a substantial financial commitment by the University.