Cookie policy

By clicking on or navigating the site, you agree to allow us to collect information on and off Studee as outlined in our cookie policy.

Home

    University of Otago

    Check whether the University of Otago is right for you as an international student.

    Official university website

    Uni facts

    Dunedin, New Zealand
    • Type
      Public
    • Rank
      335
    • International students
      2900
    • Nationalities
      100
    • Total programs
      134
    • Acceptance rate
      69%

    Get “Insider tips” to study abroad

    We'll keep in touch with regular tips and insider tricks that will help make your study abroad dreams a reality, including scholarships you won’t find on university websites.

    Plus, when you enroll, we'll plant trees in your name to compensate for the environmental impact of your flights to university.

    You can unsubscribe at any time. See our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

    The university website should have opened in a new window.

    If it hasn't, click here to open the university website.

    Study abroad at the University of Otago

    The University of Otago was established in 1869, and was New Zealand's first university. Based in Dunedin, it is a well renowned research university and one of the best ranked institutions in New Zealand.

    Otago specializes in research-led teaching, with engaged academics who are both award-winning teachers and active, world-class researchers. Otago offers degrees at all degree levels, as well as a flexible degree structure that allows students to pursue other interests alongside their primary area of study.

    The University offers bachelor’s degrees in a wide range of areas, including applied science, medicine, law, arts and humanities, business, dentistry, pharmacy, music, physiotherapy, sciences, and teaching.

    The campus is located in the vibrant student town of Dunedin. Everything is close and convenient, with most student accommodation no more than a 10 minute walk from campus. The University's location is also perfect for exploring the surrounding area and enjoying the extraordinary scenery the South Island of New Zealand is famous for.

    Why study at the University of Otago?

    • Highly ranked

      The University of Otago is ranked 175th in the world by QS World University Rankings (2020)

    • Employability

      95% of Otago graduates go straight into employment or further study

    • Beautiful campus

      The University’s campus has been ranked as one of the 15 most beautiful in the world by The Telegraph

    Life as an international student

    The University of Otago has a unique student demographic with 80% of students coming from outside the local area. There’s also a large international student population, representing more than 90 different nationalities.

    International Student Advisors at the University are available on a confidential basis to assist international students with any issues or questions that may arise during your time at Otago.

    Many international students studying at Otago choose to live in a university flat with a Kiwi host as a flatmate. This is a great way to transition into life in New Zealand, as your flatmate can help you get to know the University and the culture of the country.

    The University offers over 150 student clubs and societies and a purpose built, state-of-the-art recreation center that offers a range of indoor and outdoor recreational options that all Otago students can enjoy.

    Student life & facilities

    Group of students planning a presentation in a living room
    • Library
      • Computer labs
      • Group Study Rooms
      • Quiet Areas
    • No. of All Weather Sports Pitches
      • No. of Swimming pools
      • No. of Badminton Courts
      • No. of Diving Pools
      • No. of Basketball Courts
      • No. of volleyball courts
    • Healthcare & Medical
      • Physiotherapy
      • Travel Vaccinations
      • Child Development Assessment & Immunization
      • Minor Surgery
      • Campus Pharmacy
      • Counselling & Mental Health Services
      • Campus Doctor
      • Emergency Contraception
    • Transport
      • Bike Rental
      • Car Rental
      • Campus parking
      • Airport Shuttle Service
      • On-Campus Shuttle
    • Fitness Centre
      • Machines
      • Free Weights
      • Fitness Classes
      • Swimming Pool
      • Personal Trainers
      • Fitness Center Physiotherapist
    • Praying Rooms
      • Chaplaincy
      • Language Center
      • Group Praying Rooms
      • Pre sessional English Academic skills courses
    • IT Support
      • Campus Wireless Connectivity
    • Clubs & Organisations
      • No. of Clubs & Organizations 150
    • Tutoring Support
      • Academic Tutoring & Support

    How Studee can help you

    1. University & program search

      Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

    2. Application guidance

      We'll get you to the right place to start your application

    3. Visa & travel advice

      Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

    Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
    Our services are 100% free for students like you because we're funded by universities.

    Start your search Get free advice

    Fees and funding

    International Students studying at Otago pay international tuition fees. Many students will enrol for papers from a range of subject areas. Your actual tuition fee is calculated on the basis of fees for each paper that you include in your program.

    The tuition fees do not include the student services and administration fees.

    International applicants who have not studied Year 12 and 13 at a New Zealand school or an equivalent foundation level course at a New Zealand tertiary institution are only eligible for the New Frontiers Entrance Scholarship, and application is by invitation only through the International Office.

    Undergraduate New Frontier Scholarship - (all programs except Health Sciences programs) Based on IB, A levels, ATAR. Up to NZ$5,000

    Coursework master's Scholarship NZ$10,000

    Location

    University of Otago

    362 Leith St, North Dunedin, 9016

    Dunedin is a small city between the mountains, the harbour and the sea – that means there’s lots to do and it’s easy to get to.

    Find a program at the University of Otago

    Program level

    Visa requirements for the University of Otago

    Many international students will require a visa to study in New Zealand, and this is a vital step of your study abroad journey. Make sure you understand the requirements you may need to meet before applying.

    New Zealand student visa requirements