Victoria University of Wellington Summer Research Scholarships
The Summer Research Scholarship Programme at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington offers undergraduate and early postgraduate students a unique opportunity to engage in real-world research projects over the summer trimester. Students collaborate with globally recognised researchers and external organisations, gaining hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, literature reviews, interviewing, specialised software, or laboratory skills. Each scholarship supports up to 400 hours of work over approximately 10 weeks, typically from mid-November 2025 to before Trimester 1 2026, providing valuable insight into postgraduate research and encouraging progression to advanced studies at the university.
Participants receive a minimum tax-free stipend of $8,000, paid in instalments, conditional on enrolment at Victoria University of Wellington for 2026 (by 31 October 2025, or 1 November for PhD pathways) and completion of project milestones under qualified academic supervision. Projects align with the university's Research Strategy and may involve internal or external partners, fostering skills development in diverse fields like sciences, engineering, humanities, and more. Selection is based on academic merit, relevant expertise, and staff recommendations, with preference for third-to-fourth-year transitions.
This programme not only provides paid summer work but also builds research portfolios, networks, and preparedness for honours, master's, or PhD studies, while complying with university policies on IP, confidentiality, and health/safety. Māori-specific opportunities are available through the Ahunuku Māori Summer Research Scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements
- Completed at least two years (or end of second year with academic support) of an undergraduate degree.
- Currently enrolled at any Australian or New Zealand university in an undergraduate, Honours, or first-year Master’s degree programme.
- Students enrolled in PhD or Master's by thesis are not eligible.
- Must apply for and intend to enrol full-time at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington for 2026 (application by 2025-10-31; PhD pathway by 2025-11-01, starting post-summer).
- No concurrent university studies during the programme without approval.
- No prior two years of VUW summer scholarships.
- No alternative scholarship support during the period.
- Available full-time for 400 hours over ~10 weeks (mid-November 2025 start).
- Selection based on academic merit, research area expertise, and staff recommendations (preference for 3rd to 4th year).
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.