University of Otago

University of Otago

New Zealand’s oldest university (est. 1869), the University of Otago is renowned for research excellence, a vibrant student culture, and a picturesque campus in Dunedin. With additional health science campuses in Christchurch and Wellington, Otago offers world-class teaching and strong industry and community connections.

Why Choose the University of Otago

• Global reputation: Consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide; highly regarded for research and teaching.
• Student city vibe: Dunedin is a true student town with affordable living, a friendly community, and rich cultural life.
• Research-led learning: Strong focus on inquiry, labs, fieldwork, and supervised research.
• Supportive environment: Excellent student support, clubs, and a renowned residential college system.
• Beautiful campus: Historic architecture, green spaces, and top facilities.

Key Faculties and Popular Programs

• Health Sciences: Medicine (limited international seats), Dentistry (limited), Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Public Health, Biomedical Sciences.
• Sciences: Marine Science, Ecology, Geology, Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics.
• Business (Otago Business School): Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Information Science, Economics, International Business.
• Humanities: Law, Psychology, Communication, Languages, History, Music, Performing Arts.
• Special strengths: Public Health, Marine Science, Geology, Genetics/Neuroscience, Food Science, Psychology, Law.

Entry Requirements (Indicative)

• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s):
  • Completion of senior secondary/Grade 12 (or IB/A‑Levels/Foundation).
  • Program-specific subject prerequisites (e.g., sciences for Health/Science).
• Postgraduate Taught (PGDip/Master’s):
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field; minimum GPA as set by the department.
• Research Master’s/PhD:
  • Strong academic background, research proposal, and supervisor approval (PhD).
• Pathways: The University of Otago Pathway | Te Huarahi (Foundation Year and Diplomas) offers routes to degree entry if you don’t yet meet direct requirements.

Always check your specific program page for exact criteria.

English Language Requirements (Guide)

• Undergraduate:
  • IELTS Academic 6.0 (no band below 5.5–6.0, depending on program)
  • TOEFL iBT ~80–90, writing often 20+
  • PTE Academic ~50–58 overall; no skill below 50
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced ~169+
• Postgraduate (taught/research):
  • Typically IELTS Academic 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent.
• Programs with higher thresholds: Medicine, Dentistry, Teaching, and some Health programs may require IELTS 7.0 (or OET Grade B).

Otago may also accept NZCEL (Level 4/5 Academic) or successful completion of an approved EAP course. Always verify on the program page.

Tuition Fees (Indicative, International)

• Humanities/Business: ~NZ$32,000–40,000 per year
• Sciences/IT: ~NZ$35,000–45,000 per year
• Health Sciences (non-clinical): ~NZ$40,000–50,000 per year
• Clinical programs (e.g., Medicine, Dentistry): higher and highly competitive
• Taught Master’s: ~NZ$34,000–60,000+ (program dependent)
• PhD: International PhD students often pay domestic-rate tuition (a major advantage in NZ)

Fees vary by course and year; confirm on Otago’s official pages.

Scholarships

• University of Otago International Excellence Scholarships (UG/PG taught, merit-based)
• Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students (commonly for first-year UG)
• Otago International Pathway Scholarships (Foundation/Pathway)
• Master’s Research and Coursework Scholarships
• University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships (tuition + stipend)
• Government/External: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, Commonwealth, and region-specific awards

Check eligibility, amounts, and deadlines on the Otago Scholarships database.

Intakes and Key Dates

• Semester 1: Late February/March
• Semester 2: July
• Summer School: January–February (intensive)
• Apply ideally 6–9 months before your start date; scholarships and accommodation may close earlier.

Campuses and Facilities

• Dunedin (main campus): Most faculties; iconic Clocktower precinct, libraries, labs, Unipol Recreation.
• Christchurch & Wellington: Health Sciences campuses (clinical teaching and research).
• Extensive labs, marine studies facilities (Portobello), field stations, and specialist collections.

Accommodation

• Residential Colleges (Halls): Catered, community-focused first-year experience.
• University Flats & Private Rentals: Popular in North Dunedin; generally more affordable than larger NZ cities.
• Apply early—places fill quickly.

Student Life and Support

• OUSA (Otago University Students’ Association), 150+ clubs and societies.
• Academic skills, career services, counselling, health centre.
• Cultural life: music, arts, sports; Dunedin is a UNESCO City of Literature.

Work Opportunities & Post‑Study

• Part-time work (generally up to 20 hours/week during study; full-time in breaks, per visa conditions).
• Internships and industry projects in business, IT, sciences, and health-related fields.
• Eligible graduates can apply for a Post‑Study Work Visa (duration depends on qualification level/length).

How to Apply

1. Choose your program and check entry/English requirements.
2. Prepare documents: passport, transcripts, grading scale, CV, SOP, references, portfolio (if required).
3. Submit an online application via University of Otago.
4. Receive Offer of Place (conditional/unconditional) and meet any conditions (e.g., English).
5. Arrange accommodation, insurance, and apply for your Student Visa.
6. Plan travel for Orientation.

Study in New Zealand BD – Otago Application Support

• Program matching and prerequisite checks
• Scholarship guidance and application editing
• Document preparation (SOP/CV/references/portfolio)
• Conditional-to-unconditional offer planning (EAP/NZCEL/foundation)
• Visa checklist and submission support
• Accommodation advice and pre-departure briefing

Want a tailored Otago shortlist and timeline? Share your academic background, test scores, and preferred intake—we’ll create a customized plan for you.