Science Academy FAQs

Brilliant bioelectricity! Students undertaking the Anatomy & Physiology project use stick-on electrodes to record an electromyogram (EMG), a recording of the electricity that is produced by skeletal muscles just before they contract (January 2021).

How do I apply?

You need to:

• Apply during Term 3 of Year 12 to be part of the programme during Year 13;
• Have a strong interest and passion for science, and the potential to excel at NCEA Level 3 / New Zealand Scholarship equivalent;
• Be willing to develop your science communication and teamwork skills;
• Be nominated by a teacher at your school;
• Be enrolled at a school that fulfils one or more of the following criteria:
  • Small (<300 pupils),
  • Rural or provincial,
  • Lower decile (1–6).

If that sounds like you, talk to your school's Head of Science, who will need to complete an online Nominating Teacher Application Form on your behalf. The link for this form can be found on our “How to apply” page.

You then need to complete an online Student Application Form telling us about yourself and why you want to join the Science Academy.

We also ask you to submit a short essay telling us your thoughts about Science in the 21st Century. More information about the essay and a link to the Student Application Form can be found on our “How to apply” page.

How to apply

How much does it cost?

Science Academy is wholly funded by the University of Otago.

We will pay your:

• residential costs (including meals) while on campus,
• flights / travel to and from Dunedin.

All we ask you to contribute is a NZ$225 commitment fee. Your school or local service club may be able to help with this. (The University will give consideration to waiving part or all of the commitment fee in cases of extreme financial hardship.)

If this sounds like you, go and see your science teacher now about applying.

What are the key dates for next year's intake?

12 August 2024

Information packs for the 2025 year sent to Science teachers at participating and target schools.

Information posted on our website and public Facebook page.

12 August 2024

Applications open for the 2025 intake of students and their Nominating Teachers.

20 September 2024

Online student applications close at 11:59pm.

No later than 30 September 2024

Final selection of our 2025 student cohort. An email will be sent to all Nominating Teachers advising whether or not their students have been accepted.

Early October 2024

Successful students will be notified by email and sent essential information about the 2025 programme and a link to the online Student Registration Form.

Friday 25 October 2024

Student Registration Form closes for our selected 2025 cohort. Students will also choose their Projects and Electives for next year.

Late October 2024

Travel arrangements will be made for the January 2025 Summer Camp in Dunedin.

Thursday 28 November 2024

Student commitment fees for 2025 should be paid by today ($225 per student).

Does the Science Academy cater for students with a disability?

If you meet the above criteria and have a disability, you are also encouraged to apply for Science Academy.

Additional support may be available to students who require it.

I am from out of town – how will we make travel arrangements?

We arrange all your travel. Details will be sent out following your letter of acceptance.

All participants travelling by bus or plane are met when they arrive in Dunedin, and will be taken back to the bus station or airport to connect with their homeward transport.

How do I get in touch with you?

Our contact page has all our contact details.