How to apply
If you're interested in applying for the Science Scholars programme, you'll find all the information you need below.
How to apply – school leavers
For school leavers and current undergraduate students: Applications close Thursday 30th January 2025 plus any reference to the date updated to say 2025
What are the entry requirements?
The Science Scholars programme is aimed at students exhibiting intellectual curiosity and a passion for science in a broad context. We are particularly interested in students who excel beyond formal tests and assignments.
To complete your application to the Science Scholars Programme you will need to:
- Write an essay.
- Complete the application form, including your statement on why you want to join the programme.
- Supply a reference from a Science teacher (this can be found on the application form).
- Apply to study the Bachelor of Science.
Essay
Write a 800-1000 word essay based on the following prompt:
Scientific explorations, big and small, can provoke strong emotional responses: describe a scientific hypothesis, study, or result that has really excited – or unsettled – you.
Include in your essay:
- Your full name and University of Auckland ID number (if you know it).
- Your own personal response to the topic/ your opinion.
- APA 7 referencing where appropriate (Referencite is a great tool to use).
Essays to be submitted to scischol@auckland.ac.nz. Please note that essays may be checked for plagiarism.
Academic achievement
Successful applicants will be asked to provide their rank scores for NCEA, CIE or IB. In exceptional circumstances other candidates may be considered.
How to apply – current undergraduates
Applications close Thursday 30th January 2025
In 2025 we will be looking at taking a small number of students with a GPA of 7 or above into the second year of the Science Scholars Programme provided there is space in the programme.
You should be currently enrolled in a BSc.
While academic achievement is important we are equally interested in your personal statement and the content, depth and originality of your essay.
You have the option of joining our first year cohort if you have three years left in your degree.
To complete your application to the Science Scholars Programme you will need to:
- Write an essay.
- Complete the application form, including your statement on why you want to join the programme.
- Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate Science degree with at least two years remaining.
Essay
Write a 800-1000 word essay based on the following prompt:
Scientific explorations, big and small, can provoke strong emotional responses: describe a scientific hypothesis, study, or result that has really excited – or unsettled – you.
Include in your essay:
- Your full name and University of Auckland ID number (if you know it).
- Your own personal response to the topic/ your opinion.
- APA 7 referencing where appropriate (Referencite is a great tool to use).
Essays to be submitted to scischol@auckland.ac.nz. Please note that essays may be checked for plagiarism.
Strive Towards Science Award
If you're applying to the Science Scholar Programme as a school leaver and are then accepted, your essay will be automatically entered into our Strive Towards Science Award. Your acceptance into the programme will not depend on this, and if you'd prefer not to be considered for the award, let us know by ticking the box in your application.
Frequently asked questions
Can I be a Science Scholar if I am studying Biomedical Science?
If you are studying Biomedical Science, you can be a Science Scholar, provided you don't want to gain entry into the MBChB programme. The requirements for entry into Medicine mean your first-year courses are completely prescribed, and you don't have the flexibility to choose.
However SCISCHOl can be taken on top of those requirements provided there are no timetable clashes – please get in touch at scischol@auckland.ac.nz if you have questions about the programme while also studying a biomedical science degree.