The University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university and one of the best in the world. It is ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and has a prestigious 5 Stars Plus rating from QS. Located in the lively city of Dunedin, it offers students a unique mix of high-quality education, exciting research opportunities, and a welcoming, multicultural environment. With 3,000 international students from over 100 countries, the University of Otago is a great place to learn, meet people from different cultures, and grow both academically and personally.
This Blog Includes:
- Why Choose the University of Otago: A Top Global Institution
- Location and Campus of the University of Otago
- University of Otago Campuses
- Accommodation Options at the University of Otago: Finding the Perfect Place to Live
- Accommodation and Living Costs at the University of Otago
- Flexible Study Options with Over 140 Subjects at the University of Otago
- University of Otago: Admissions and Entry Requirements
- University of Otago Tuition Fees for International Students
- University of Otago Scholarships for International Students
- What are the Important Dates for Semester 1, 2025 (February Intake) at the University of Otago?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Founded in 1869, Otago is the oldest university in New Zealand, boasting a rich history and tradition of academic excellence. This provides a sense of prestige and established reputation. |
Why Choose the University of Otago: A Top Global Institution
The University of Otago is ranked in the top 1% of global universities, placing it among the elite institutions worldwide. With an exceptional University of Otago world ranking, it consistently receives a 5 Stars Plus rating in the QS global university performance ratings, showcasing its high academic standards and global reputation.
1. Exceptional Academic Excellence at the University of Otago
The University of Otago ranking speaks to its unparalleled academic achievements in New Zealand. It has earned the title of the country’s top university for educational performance.
Otago’s faculty consists of award-winning professors, many of whom have been recipients of the Prime Minister’s Supreme Award for Teaching Excellence. These educators are recognised globally for their knowledge and teaching quality, ensuring that students receive world-class education and mentoring.
2. Strong Graduate Employability from the University of Otago
The University of Otago takes pride in its graduates’ employability. With 96% of graduates either employed or pursuing further study, it is clear that Otago provides its students with the skills necessary for success in their careers.
Graduates from Otago are highly valued by employers for their strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and analytical skills, making them stand out in the competitive job market.
3. World-Class Facilities and Campus at the University of Otago
Students at the University of Otago have access to some of the best facilities globally. The Central Library, considered one of the world’s top libraries, is part of a campus that includes innovative teaching labs, research spaces, and state-of-the-art performance areas.
The campus itself is recognised as one of the most beautiful in the world, with its stunning architecture and natural surroundings. Otago’s facilities are designed to support student success, offering spaces for learning, recreation, and community engagement.
4. Unmatched Student Life and Support at the University of Otago
At the University of Otago, students enjoy a unique residential university experience. Around 85% of Otago’s students come from outside Dunedin, and the campus offers a encouraging
student life with over 140 clubs and societies to choose from.
Students live in close-knit residential colleges, which provide a sense of community and academic support. Otago’s comprehensive student services, including health centres, counselling, IT support, and career services, ensure that students have the resources they need to succeed both academically and personally.
Also Read: Top 8 New Zealand Skilled Jobs In Demand
Location and Campus of the University of Otago
The University of Otago is renowned for its extensive network of campuses spread across New Zealand, each offering unique academic and research opportunities. From its historic main campus in Dunedin to its specialised facilities in Auckland, Christchurch, Invercargill, and Wellington, the university caters to diverse student needs. These campuses provide world-class education, exceptional resources, and a supportive environment for both domestic and international students.
University of Otago Campuses
Following is the list of Campuses, locations, specialised features and programs provided by Otago University:
Campus | Location | Key Features | Programs and Services |
Dunedin Campus | Dunedin | Main campus; iconic heritage buildings; central administration; 4 academic divisions | Business, Health Sciences, Humanities, Sciences; on-campus and downloadable maps |
Auckland Campus | University of Otago House, 385 Queen Street, Auckland | Central city location; accessible resources | Support for children’s issues, distance education, course information and liaison |
Christchurch Campus | University of Otago, Christchurch | Specialised in health sciences and clinical education | Medical school programs, physiotherapy, clinical training, postgraduate education, research, distance learning |
Invercargill Campus | College of Education Invercargill (Nelson Street); Southland Hospital | Focus on education and health sciences; supportive learning environment | Education programs, Health Sciences Study Hub |
Wellington Campus | University of Otago, Wellington | Health sciences and advanced clinical training facilities | Medical school, physiotherapy, research, postgraduate education, distance learning |
Accommodation Options at the University of Otago: Finding the Perfect Place to Live
At the University of Otago, accommodation is more than just a place to stay it is an essential part of student life. The university offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different needs, including short-term and rental options, with two main facilities available for international students.
1. Short-Term Accommodation
If you’re arriving at the University of Otago and need a temporary place to stay, the Student Accommodation Centre provides valuable support. The centre’s accommodation advisers are available Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 5:00pm, to help you find the ideal flat or room.
For students enrolled in the Pathway and Language Centre, there are two accommodation options available:
- Residential Colleges:
Residential colleges offer a supportive community environment to the international students.
- Homestay:
This allows you to live with a local family and experience Kiwi culture.
Temporary accommodation is also recommended if you plan to find long-term accommodation after arrival or arrive before your booked accommodation is ready
2. Rental Accommodation
Flatting (shared rental accommodation) is a popular choice for many students at the University of Otago. Renting a flat allows you to live independently while sharing the costs with flatmates. Flats can be furnished or unfurnished, and utilities such as electricity, telephone, and internet are usually extra.
When looking for a flat, it’s important to discuss budget, heating preferences, cleaning schedules, and domestic duties with your flatmates to ensure a smooth living experience. You’ll also need to pay a bond before moving in—typically 2–4 weeks’ rent—to cover any damages.
Helpful Tips for Flatting
Before moving in, students are suggested to remember the following:
- Complete the Bond Lodgement Form to ensure your bond is legally processed.
- Understand your responsibilities regarding rubbish and recycling.
- Get familiar with local support services such as Campus Watch and OUSA for any issues you may face during flatting.
Accommodation and Living Costs at the University of Otago
The University of Otago provides various accommodation options to meet the diverse needs of students, especially those coming from outside Dunedin. In fact, over 85% of first-year students come from outside the city, which is why the university places a strong emphasis on high-quality accommodation and student support, especially through its residential colleges.
Residential Colleges vs. Flatting
In your first year at Otago, you’ll likely live in one of the residential colleges, where you’ll experience a strong sense of community. However, by your second year, many students choose to move into flatting, a popular choice for students seeking more independence.
Some first-year students also prefer to flat right away, and the good news is that living costs in Dunedin are generally lower than in larger cities, making flatting an affordable option.
The estimated costs for living in Dunedin for one academic year (40 weeks) are outlined below:
Accommodation Option | Residential College | Shared Flat | Shared Flat |
Accommodation Fee | $18,315 | – | – |
Average Rent (52 weeks) | – | $10,400 | $13,000 |
Food (40 weeks) | – | $4,000 | $4,000 |
Gas/Electricity & Internet | – | $1,800 | – |
Total Accommodation Cost | $18,315 | $16,200 | $17,000 |
Personal Costs (40 weeks) | $3,200 | $3,200 | $3,200 |
Entertainment (40 weeks) | $2,200 | $2,200 | $2,200 |
Medical & Travel Insurance | $620 | $620 | $620 |
Total Estimated Costs | $24,335 | $22,220 | $23,020 |
Additional Information:
- Residential Colleges charge an accommodation fee, and some also have a small amenity fee.
- Food Costs are based on a modest budget with most meals prepared at home.
- Personal Costs can vary depending on your lifestyle choices.
- The estimate is for a more restrained lifestyle and doesn’t include additional travel costs or personal expenses.
- Electricity costs can be higher in winter, so plan accordingly
The Dunedin campus is known for its stunning architecture and park-like setting, creating a vibrant and inspiring learning environment. Visuals of the campus can be very appealing. |
Also Read: Money and Living Expenses in New Zealand for International Students
Flexible Study Options with Over 140 Subjects at the University of Otago
The University of Otago offers a flexible study system, allowing students to choose from over 140 subjects for their bachelor’s degree. At the heart of the program, students need to select a major subject, which is their main area of focus. Along with the major, they can also pick a minor, which is like a smaller specialisation, to complement their main subject. Additionally, students can choose other papers from different subjects to broaden their knowledge.
The University of Otago gives students the opportunity to tailor their degree based on their interests and career goals. This flexibility helps students gain knowledge in their chosen major while exploring other fields. Some subjects also offer endorsements that can enhance students’ qualifications, especially in areas like Biblical Studies and French.
Each subject at the University of Otago comes with detailed information about available qualifications, specific papers, and career opportunities. Whether students are interested in Accounting, Anthropology, Biochemistry, or fields like Data Science and Environmental Management, the University provides all the tools needed to succeed. The University of Otago’s approach ensures that students are well-prepared for their careers, with a solid foundation in their chosen fields.
Subject | Major | Minor | Endorsement |
Accounting | Yes | Yes | No |
Agricultural Innovation | Yes | Yes | No |
Anthropology | Yes | Yes | No |
Biochemistry | Yes | Yes | No |
Business Analytics | No | Yes | No |
Also Read: IELTS Score Requirements for New Zealand
University of Otago: Admissions and Entry Requirements
The University of Otago welcomes international students and offers a variety of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. To gain admission, you must meet specific entrance requirements, including recognised qualifications and English proficiency:
Category | Details |
University Entrance Qualification | Essential for all program types. Check if previous studies are recognized based on your country. |
Undergraduate Entrance Requirements | Various international qualifications are recognized (Example: IB Diploma, Cambridge International Examinations, Pearson Edexcel A-levels). English proficiency and literacy/numeracy are also required. |
Postgraduate Entrance Requirements | Required a bachelor’s degree in the same field or related discipline. Additional requirements may include work experience. |
Foundation Studies Certificate | For students who do not meet direct entrance requirements. Completion with a grade of C or better in English required. |
English Language Proficiency | Tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English are accepted. Minimum scores vary by program. Tests must be within the last two years. |
Secondary Qualifications (India) | All India Senior School Certificate or equivalent with 70% or higher in English. |
Required Documents | – Academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate).- Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate).- Certified translations if documents are not in English.- Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) report, if applicable. |
Postgraduate Research | For research-only programs (Masters/PhD), submit a research proposal, CV, supervisor’s agreement, and academic documents. |
English Proficiency Tests (Required Scores) | IELTS (6.0 overall), TOEFL (80), or equivalent (check specific program requirements). |
Applying for Research Programs | Before applying, contact a potential supervisor, explore relevant departments, and develop a research proposal. |
Not Meeting Entrance Requirements? | Options like the Foundation Studies Certificate or Diplomas (Arts, Commerce, Science) for students who are near the university entrance requirements |
Otago is a research-intensive university, provides opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research across various disciplines. This is attractive for students interested in postgraduate studies or being involved in innovative projects. |
Also Read: Understand the Education System in New Zealand for International Students
University of Otago Tuition Fees for International Students
The University of Otago charges international students tuition fees based on the specific papers they choose for their course. These fees are calculated per paper and may vary if students select papers from different subject areas. The figures provided in the fee schedules are estimates for a typical full-time course in a single subject area.
It is important to note that tuition fees can change yearly. For programs lasting more than one calendar year, students must pay the updated tuition fees for each year. However, for continuing students, fee increases are capped at a maximum of 5% per year.
In addition to tuition, students need to pay separate charges for student services and administration fees. These fees are not included in the tuition amount. International students are also required to have insurance, and detailed information about this is available through the university’s international office.
Here is a table summarising the annual tuition fees for international students at the University of Otago for the 2025 academic year, categorized by major fields of study:
Field of Study | Annual Tuition Fee (NZD) | Annual Tuition Fee (NZD) | Intake Semesters |
Business | |||
Accounting | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Economics | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Finance | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Information Science | $41,832 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
International Business | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Management | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Marketing | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Tourism | $40,272 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Health Sciences | |||
Bachelor of Health Sciences | $41,350 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) | $92,125 (Years 2–3); $105,285 (Years 4–6) | 6 | Semester 1 |
Sciences | |||
Zoology | $44,720 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Anatomy | $48,785 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Biochemistry | $48,785 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Humanities | |||
Computer Science | $39,955 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Economics | $36,950 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Education | $35,621 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
English | $35,621 | 3 | Semester 1, 2 |
Additional Information:
- The standard duration for most bachelor’s degrees is 3 years, except for programs like Medicine (MB ChB), which is 6 years.
- Semester 1 typically starts in February, and Semester 2 starts in July. Some programs may have specific intake periods; it’s advisable to check the official University of Otago website for detailed information.
- Tuition fees do not include additional costs such as student services fees, insurance, accommodation, and other living expenses.
- Fees are subject to change, and some programs may have different fee structures. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official University of Otago website.
University of Otago Tuition Fee Due Dates for International Students
International students at the University of Otago must pay their tuition fees by specific deadlines based on their enrollment period:
Enrollment Period | Payment Due Date |
Semester 1 (starts early in the year) | 26 February 2025 |
Semester 2 (starts mid-year) | 10 July 2025 |
Summer School | 10 January 2025 |
A late payment fee of NZ$100 will be added to accounts not cleared by these due dates.
If students add more papers to their program during the year, they must pay the additional tuition fees within 20 days of making the course changes.
University of Otago Scholarships for International Students
The University of Otago Scholarships offer various opportunities for students to pursue their academic goals with financial support. Here is an overview of some key scholarships:
The University of Otago Scholarships offer various opportunities for students to pursue their academic goals with financial support. Here is an overview of some key scholarships:
Scholarship Name | Value | Eligibility | Closing Date | Additional Information |
University of Otago Pacific Islands Doctoral Scholarship | NZ$32,544/year + tuition fees waiver | Indigenous Pacific Island doctoral students | Anytime | Focuses on supporting Pacific Island students pursuing a doctoral qualification. |
Noni Wright Postgraduate Scholarship in Theatre Studies | NZ$5,000 | MA/MFA/PhD candidates in Theatre Studies | 28 February | Designed to encourage excellence in Theatre Studies research. |
Sir Murray F. Brennan Scholarship in Rowing | NZ$16,000 over 2 years | Otago Rowing Club members | 30 November | Promotes both academic and athletic excellence among rowing enthusiasts. |
University of Otago City of Literature PhD Scholarship | NZ$32,544/year + tuition fees waiver | PhD candidates focusing on literature research | 31 January annually | Encourages literary research within the UNESCO City of Literature framework. |
University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship | NZ$32,544/year + tuition fees waiver | First-time doctoral students | Anytime | Open to all disciplines; awards based on academic excellence and research potential. |
POPO Pacific Physics Scholarship | NZ$2,500 | Pacific students in the JumpSTART Physics programme | 15 December | Supports Pacific Island students advancing in Physics studies. |
Otago Council Inc Scholarship in Science | NZ$3,000 (one-off payment) | Domestic/International Master’s students conducting research in specific fields in Otago region, first Master’s degree | Anytime | Established in 2016; may be held alongside other scholarships. |
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships | Full tuition, living allowance, travel, establishment, and education allowances | Citizens from eligible developing countries for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study | 1–28 February | Offered by the New Zealand Government for tertiary education in New Zealand. |
Dr. Sulaiman Daud 125th Jubilee Postgraduate Scholarship | NZ$32,544/year stipend + tuition waiver, health insurance, other allowances | Malaysian research students obtaining their first doctoral qualification | Anytime | Requires scholars to return to Malaysia post-completion unless under exceptional circumstances. |
University of Otago Special Health Research Scholarship | NZ$32,544/year stipend + tuition waiver (excludes services fee & insurance) | Domestic/International students pursuing health-related PhD or professional doctorate research | Currently unavailable | Selection based on academic merit and relevance of research to human health. |
Angus Ross Travel Scholarship in History | NZ$1,000 | PhD candidates conducting off-campus field/archival research in History | 1 November | Supports fieldwork, excludes conference travel; not available for past recipients. |
What are the Important Dates for Semester 1, 2025 (February Intake) at the University of Otago?
Here is the list of important dates for Semester 1, 2025 (February intake) at the University of Otago for international students:
Application Round Opens | 1 May 2024 |
Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships Open | 1 July 2024 |
Accommodation Applications Open (Residential College & UniFlats) | 1 August 2024 |
Otago Entrance Scholarships Deadline (Onshore Students) | 15 August 2024 |
Residential College Applications Deadline (Onshore Students) | 30 September 2024 |
Offshore International Students Application Deadline (Semester 1) | 15 November 2024 |
Study Abroad Applications Deadline | 1 December 2024 |
Accommodation Application Deadline (Offshore Students) | 1 December 2024 |
Onshore International Students Application Deadline (Semester 1) | 10 December 2024 |
UniFlats Contract Start Date: | 3 January 2025 |
Move-In Weekend for Residential Colleges | 15–16 February 2025 |
Recommended Last Day to Arrive on Campus (International Students) | 16 February 2025 |
Orientation Week | 17–21 February 2025 |
Preliminary Lectures Begin | 21 February 2025 |
Semester 1 Formal Lectures Begin | 24 February 2025 |
Conclusion
The University of Otago provides great support for international students, with clear guidelines for admissions, accommodation, and scholarships. By following application deadlines and using the resources available, students can have a smooth and successful experience at the university.
FAQs
Ans. International students must meet academic qualifications equivalent to New Zealand standards and demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Some programs have additional requirements like interviews or portfolios, especially for creative fields.
Ans. Accommodation applications open in August for residential colleges and UniFlats. Undergraduate students can apply for residential colleges, while postgraduate and exchange students can apply for UniFlats. All applications are submitted online via eVision.
Ans. Otago offers several scholarships, including entrance scholarships based on academic merit, and specific scholarships for various countries and programs. Students should check eligibility criteria and apply before the relevant deadlines through the Otago website.
Ans. Otago provides extensive support, including visa advice, orientation, academic tutoring, counselling, career services, and health support. The International Office assists with integration, ensuring students’ success both academically and personally during their stay.
Ans. International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the semester and full-time during breaks, provided their student visa allows it. Otago’s job search service helps students find suitable employment opportunities.
We hope this blog gives you a complete overview of the University of Otago. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more such content on student life abroad. Thank you for reading!
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