University of Otago
Dunedin, New Zealand
1869
Established
Public research university
Institution Type
Research & health
Study Strength
Overview
About University of Otago
The University of Otago, founded in 1869, is New Zealand’s oldest university. Its main campus in Dunedin is renowned for health sciences, medicine, dentistry, biomedical sciences, humanities, sciences, and business, supported by a strong residential-college tradition and an internationally recognised research community.
Why Choose
Why This University?
- New Zealand’s oldest university with a major research profile
- Internationally recognised health sciences, medicine, dentistry, and biomedical research
- Dunedin’s immersive student-city experience and residential colleges
- International-student support covering orientation, academic guidance, and wellbeing
- Qualifications quality-assured within New Zealand’s regulated tertiary system
- Eligible students can work up to 25 hours per week during study under current visa conditions
1869
New Zealand’s oldest university
Financial Aid
Scholarships & Awards
International Student Scholarships
Merit-based international awards may be available by intake, study level, and country. Eligibility and values change, so confirm the current scholarship catalogue before applying.
Programme & Faculty Awards
Selected faculties and programmes offer targeted entrance or progression awards for strong academic achievement.
External Funding
Eligible applicants may also consider Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships and other government or home-country funding schemes.
What You Need
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate / Diploma
- HSC, A-Level, IB, or another recognised secondary qualification at the grade required for the programme
- Mathematics, science, portfolio, or interview requirements apply to selected technical, health, and creative programmes
- Certified academic transcripts, passport, and English-language evidence
Postgraduate
- Recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a competitive academic record
- Some programmes require professional experience, a portfolio, references, or a research proposal
- Programme-specific requirements take precedence over general institutional entry
International Application
- Offer of Place from the institution is required for a New Zealand student visa
- Provide verified documents and certified English translations where necessary
- Apply early enough for admission, tuition payment, insurance, and visa processing
Language
English Proficiency Requirements
Typical English Entry
- Most bachelor’s programmes require IELTS Academic 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5; postgraduate programmes commonly require 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0.
- TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge English, and approved NZCEL pathways may be accepted at equivalent scores
- Nursing, teaching, and other professionally regulated programmes usually set higher English thresholds
Important Notes
- English test results normally need to be recent and from an approved test centre
- Exact scores and sub-score requirements differ by programme
- English or foundation pathways may be available when direct entry is not met
Costs
Tuition Fees
International Tuition
- 2026 international tuition varies by subject; many standard degrees are approximately NZ$35,000–NZ$50,000 per year, while clinical programmes cost more.
- Published fees are indicative and can change annually; use the formal Offer of Place for the final amount
- Student services levies, materials, insurance, and fieldwork may be charged separately
Living & Visa Budget
- Immigration New Zealand generally requires evidence of NZ$20,000 per year for living costs
- Medical and travel insurance is compulsory for international students
- Accommodation costs vary significantly, with Auckland and Wellington usually more expensive
Programmes
Available Courses
Explore a selection of programmes available at this university for international students.
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