The Pūtea Tautoko Student relief fund is available for University of Otago students facing unforeseen financial hardship that has become a barrier to study.
Eligible students will need to demonstrate how their ability to cover costs is impacted by unforeseen circumstances and are expected to have already explored other income options from New Zealand Government sources such as StudyLink or Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ).
MBChB students should apply for a Medical Hardship grant first. If you are affected by a natural disaster, Pūtea Tautoko will support you.
Students living in University-owned colleges, and UniFlats residents, should first contact the warden/subwarden to see if any financial support is available. Include the outcome of college financial support applications in an application for Pūtea Tautoko.
The application will need to make clear how the financial hardship was unexpected or could not have been predicted. This fund cannot be used to cover costs that can be anticipated e.g. usual vehicle expenses such as registration and warrant of fitness or course related costs such as those associated with placements, tests, uniforms, and required equipment.
The application requires applicants to confirm they have already tried all other possible sources of financial support (StudyLink, WINZ, savings).
Students are encouraged to apply for a Community Services card, if eligible.
How do I apply for Pūtea Tautoko
To make an application for Pūtea Tautoko:
- Log in to eVision.
- In the My Finances section click on the Pūtea Tautoko — Student Relief Fund application.
- Complete the application form.
- As part of the application, you will be required to provide details of your current financial situation, including any scholarships, student allowances, personal savings, earnings from paid work, family support, or any other income you receive.
- You may also be asked to provide further evidence of your financial situation, including bank statements and other supporting documentation. Where it is appropriate, you may be asked to seek OUSA budgeting advice before you receive a grant from Pūtea Tautoko.
- Nominate an impartial independent referee who is aware of your situation. They will be asked to provide comment on your financial situation.
- Submit the form. You will receive an email to your student email account, advising you that it has been submitted.
- You will be notified by email once your application has been considered.