University of Otago Admission Guide

About the University of Otago

The University of Otago (Otakou Whakaihu Waka) is New Zealand's oldest university, based in Dunedin in the South Island, with additional teaching locations elsewhere in the country. It is a comprehensive public university offering programmes across the humanities, sciences, commerce, and health sciences.

This guide outlines the general application process for international students. Programme requirements, fees, and dates are set by the university and updated each year, so confirm the specifics on the official University of Otago website before applying.

How the application works

The University of Otago manages international applications online through its official student system. You create an account, complete the application, and upload the required documents. PhD and thesis-only Master's applications are generally handled separately with the support of a supervisor.

• Choose your programme and read its official entry requirements
• Create an account in the university's official online application system
• Upload scanned official academic transcripts and identity documents as instructed
• Provide evidence of English-language proficiency where required
• Submit, then respond to any offer and complete enrolment

Entry requirements and documents

Entry requirements depend on the programme and on your previous qualifications. For undergraduate study you are typically asked for scanned copies of your official high school or foundation transcripts; for postgraduate study, your official tertiary transcripts. You will also usually need to evidence your identity — for example, a certified copy of the personal-details page of your passport.

Accepted documents and exact requirements are published officially and can change, so follow the document checklist on the University of Otago's official international pages for your specific application.

English-language requirements, fees, and dates

International applicants usually need to meet an English-language requirement; the accepted tests and minimum scores vary by programme and are listed on the official site. Application periods also vary by programme and intake, and some programmes have their own timelines.

Tuition fees and any scholarships are published officially, each with its own conditions. Treat all fee, scholarship, score, and date figures as time-sensitive and verify them on the University of Otago's official website rather than relying on summaries.

Student visa and next steps

If you accept an offer, you will generally need a New Zealand student visa to study on-campus. Student visa requirements and processing are handled by Immigration New Zealand; verify the current rules and required documents on the official Immigration New Zealand website.

This is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently — always verify on the official government source before acting.