Looking for UC scholarships to fund your online learning?

It's exciting to take on the challenge of starting online study - but we know that finding ways to fund your learning can be stressful. While we don't currently offer Tuihono UC | UC Online scholarships, there are other options available to help fund your learning. 

UC Scholarships

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) offers scholarships and prizes of over $20 million NZD each year, which our online programme learners (if you're taking a certificate, diploma or master's degree) may be eligible for. Some scholarships recognise academic excellence, while others focus on social inclusion and are awarded on the basis of hardship.

Steps to apply:

1. Search for relevant scholarships via the UC scholarships database.
2. Check the regulations to see if you are eligible.
3. Apply using the specific form for that scholarship – some have different requirements and need different information from you. Most open 8 weeks before applications close.
4. Make sure to note the closing date so that you submit your application before this. Don't forget to include all required supporting documents so you have the best chance of being assessed.

Other scholarships

A range of other organisations fund scholarships, which you can learn more about at the following websites: 

• Scholarships in New Zealand (studyspy.ac.nz)
• Scholarships | Universities New Zealand - Te Pōkai Tara (universitiesnz.ac.nz)
• If you’re an international learner, you may find the Study with New Zealand website helpful for advice about international scholarships. 

UC also has helpful advice about applying for a scholarship, which we'd recommend reviewing before applying.

It's also important to know that most scholarships are unlikely to cover the full cost of your study. This is where other payment options are also important to consider. 

Take a short course or micro-credential for bite-sized learning

One recommendation to manage costs is to study a short course or micro-credential. These courses offer condensed and practical learning for busy professionals, with a lower price tag than a full qualification. Studying a short course or micro-credential with us allows you to gain the credentials you need to achieve your goals in a cost-effective way. 

Please note: our short course and micro-credentials are not eligible for scholarship, StudyLink or Fees Free funding. 

Our online programmes (certificate, diploma or master's degree) include at least four courses, so the cost is higher overall. If you’re thinking about studying an online programme, there are ways to manage study costs without breaking the bank.

Part-time learning while you work

Many of our learners work while they study – our flexible online learning environment is available 24/7 and our courses are designed with busy working professionals in mind. As long as you meet assignment deadlines and attend any required live sessions, you can learn after work, while the kids are at school, or even in the middle of the night if that’s what works for you.

Some of our learners have also funded their study by:

• Paying for one term at a time
• Accessing Fees Free or StudyLink support
• Their employer supporting them with some or all of the fees

Programme learners may be eligible for first year FeesFree

If you’re a first-time tertiary learner, you may be eligible to study fees-free in your first year of study with the NZ Government's Fees Free scheme. Find out if you're eligible on the Fees Free website.

Programme learners may be able to get a StudyLink student loan or allowance

Studylink offers student loans and allowances to eligible students to pay for tuition fees and study-related costs.  Complete the Eligiblity Test on the Studylink website to see what you are eligible for. You can also check Studylink's residency requirements and definition of full-time study. 

Each new year of study requires a new application and can take time to process during busy periods – we encourage learners to apply early directly with StudyLink. 

Want to know more? Sorted has a great guide to StudyLink Student Loans that we recommend reading.

Employers can fund an employee’s learning

Many employers see the benefits of lifelong learning - more engaged employees expanding their skills to use in the workplace. Check in with your manager about funding your professional development, with top tips on how to have a career conversation at work from Careers NZ. 

If your employer agrees to support your study financially, get in touch with us at info@uconline.ac.nz and we can send you information about payment methods, including invoicing. 

Other employers decide to put an entire team through a course, so that everyone is learning together. Talk to our Partnerships Manager to find out more about our flexible learning for groups.

Need more advice on how to finance your study? Get in touch with our team at info@uconline.ac.nz.