Established in 1869, the University of Otago holds the distinction of being New Zealand's first university and is known internationally for its research, instruction, and student life. With a student body of over 21,000, including more than 3,000 international students from over 100 countries, Otago provides a diverse academic setting.
Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities around the world and regularly appears in the top 250 of the QS World Rankings. It combines academic standing with active campus involvement. Its graduates include Rhodes Scholars, Nobel Prize participants, and leaders in medicine, law, and business.
Otago offers UK students a chance to study in a safe, English-speaking country. It also provides top-tier facilities, scholarships, and a solid record for graduate job placement.
The University of Otago is consistently ranked in the top 1% of universities around the world. According to the QS World University Rankings for 2025, Otago is in a strong position because of its research, academic standing, and how well employers know the university. The school is known for its programs in medicine, dentistry, public health, and the humanities.
These rankings show Otago’s focus on academic standards and global influence, which attracts students from the UK who want qualifications that are respected worldwide.
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Otago uses a moderately selective admission process that balances academic standards and accessibility. While acceptance rates differ by program, international students who have strong grades and English skills usually have a good chance of getting in.
UK applicants have simpler procedures because Otago recognizes A-levels and other UK qualifications. This makes Otago appealing to those wanting an easy move to studying abroad.
The University of Otago's primary campus is in Dunedin, a city that students enjoy due to its history, arts, and natural surroundings. There are other campuses in Wellington, Christchurch, and Invercargill, which mainly deal with health and research after graduation.
Dunedin Campus Features:
Otago's campuses aim to give international students a secure and welcoming space where they can grow in their studies and personal lives.
Otago provides varied bachelor's and master's degrees across five divisions:
UK students often choose these programs:
Otago lets students adapt their schooling to fit what they want to do later, thanks to adaptable degree designs and choices to study different subjects together.
At Otago, tuition costs differ depending on the course and academic level. Here is some basic fee info for international students:
| Program Level | Estimated Annual Tuition (NZD) | GBP Equivalent (approx.) |
| Undergraduate | NZD 27,000–35,000 | £13,000–£17,000 |
| Postgraduate | NZD 30,000–40,000 | £14,500–£19,500 |
| Medicine/Dentistry | NZD 70,000+ | £34,000+ |
Otago has multiple scholarships available for international students, such as:
Students from the UK should apply quickly and look into external funding options like Commonwealth Scholarships.
Otago provides several housing choices to suit different budgets and lifestyles.
Most international students begin in residential colleges because they offer a supportive setting that eases the change to university life. Otago’s accommodation services help with placement and provide resources to help students find private rentals.
If you're a UK student interested in studying at Otago, the application process is quite straightforward. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Look through the available courses and make sure you meet the admission standards.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready. You’ll need your academic records, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation.
Step 3: Visit Otago’s official website to submit your application.
Step 4: Depending on your program, you’ll likely need an IELTS score between 6.0 and 7.0.
Step 5: You’ll get either a conditional or unconditional offer of admission.
Step 6: If you accept the offer, apply for a student visa through Immigration New Zealand.
Step 7: Arrange for accommodation and travel. Otago offers assistance to help you prepare for your arrival.
Application deadlines vary, but it’s best to apply at least six to eight months before you plan to begin your studies.
