Are you a Pacific Islander passionate about pursuing a career in health sciences? The POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship 2025 offered by the University of Otago, New Zealand, could be your gateway to a successful future in health and medicine.
This scholarship is specifically tailored to support indigenous Pacific students in their first steps toward a health science degree, providing funding, academic support, and access to essential chemistry courses.
Whether you’re transitioning from secondary school or simply looking for a strong foundation in health science, this scholarship equips you with both financial aid and academic mentorship for a strong start.
Let’s break down all the details you need to know – from eligibility to how to apply, scholarship value, and deadlines.
Quick Summary: POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship 2025
| Feature | Details |
| Scholarship Name | POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship |
| Institution | University of Otago, New Zealand |
| Value | Approximately NZ$2,500 |
| Number of Awards | 5 Scholarships |
| Opening Date | 1 July 2025 |
| Closing Date | 15 December 2025 (for first-round consideration) |
| Eligible Course | CHEM 150 and CHEM 191 (as part of Health Sciences First Year – HSFY) |
| Eligible Applicants | Indigenous Pacific students with NZ citizenship or NZ Residence Visa |
| Duration | 1 year |
About the POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship
The POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship is managed by the Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU) at the University of Otago. It aims to bridge the gap for Pacific students as they enter health sciences, especially through chemistry-focused courses.
It supports participation in:
- CHEM 150 – Concepts in Chemistry (Summer School)
- CHEM 191 – Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health (part of the HSFY programme)
Besides covering tuition costs, the scholarship provides mentorship, tutorials, and additional learning resources to help students succeed in one of the most academically demanding university years.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be of indigenous Pacific descent
- Hold New Zealand citizenship or a New Zealand Residence Class Visa
- Intend to pursue a career in health sciences
- Plan to enrol in the CHEM 150 Summer School paper and the HSFY programme
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how to apply for the POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship 2025:
- Complete the Official Scholarship Application Form
- You must submit the form by 15 December 2025 for first-round consideration.
- Apply for Course Enrolment
- Submit a separate application to enrol in:
- CHEM 150 Concepts in Chemistry (Summer School)
- Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) at the University of Otago
- Submit a separate application to enrol in:
- Demonstrate Motivation & Potential
- The selection committee will evaluate:
- Your previous academic performance
- Motivation and potential to succeed
- Commitment to health science studies and a future career in health
- The selection committee will evaluate:
For more details, visit the official website here.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
Recipients of the POPO Chemistry Scholarship receive comprehensive benefits, including:
- NZ $2,500 worth of financial support
- Payment of CHEM 191 tuition fees
- Accommodation support during the 2-week on-campus CHEM 191 lab period
- Academic support, including:
- Weekly tutorials
- Additional resources
- Mentorship through the Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit
- May be held alongside other Otago Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships
Download the Application Form
You can download the official application form here: POPO Pacific Chemistry Scholarship Application Form (PDF)
FAQs
Can I apply if I’m not of Pacific descent?
No, this scholarship is strictly for students of indigenous Pacific heritage with New Zealand citizenship or residency.
Do I need to apply separately for the courses?
Yes, you must submit a separate enrolment application for both CHEM 150 and the Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) programme.
What happens if I don’t get accepted into the HSFY programme?
Since eligibility depends on being enrolled in HSFY and CHEM 191, failure to secure course enrolment may affect your scholarship eligibility.
Is the scholarship renewable?
No, it is a one-year scholarship, although it may be held in conjunction with other awards.
When will I know if I’ve received the scholarship?
Notifications are typically sent after first-round applications close in December, depending on course enrolment confirmation and selection assessments.
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