Overview
Otago University was established in 1869, and after more than 150 years the university is still leading the way when it comes to world-class teaching and a legendary student lifestyle. These two core elements set the University of Otago apart and is the reason students from across the country and around the world choose Otago.
Program Details
As New Zealand’s first university, founded in 1869, the University of Otago has earned an international reputation for excellence in research and teaching. Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world and has been placed in the top 100 for 13 subject areas including Anthropology, Anatomy and Physiology, Archaeology, Development Studies, Dentistry, Psychology and Sports-related subjects (QS World Rankings). At the University of Otago, you can enroll in a full undergraduate program, earn a postgraduate degree, or complete a PhD program. Learn more about program options below.
University of Otago
Study at the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university, located in the lively student town of Dunedin on the spectacular South Island. Home to one of the most beautiful campuses in the world, featuring the iconic stone Clock Tower and the tranquil Water of Leith, Otago offers a perfect blend of academic excellence, community spirit, and outdoor adventure.
Take classes at New Zealand’s most research-intensive university, with top-ranked coursework in health sciences, environmental studies, marketing, tourism, psychology, economics, and the humanities.
Explore New Zealand’s natural environment through fieldwork-based courses that turn the South Island into your extended classroom.
The Otago Business School is AACSB-accredited and offers strong business, economics, and marketing coursework.
Make a difference during your time abroad through Otago’s Social Impact Studio and the Global Impact Scholar Programme, which offer certification and meaningful ways to engage with the local community through tree planting, food drives, sustainable fashion projects.
Enjoy free access to Unipol, Otago’s on-campus activity hub featuring fitness classes, sports courts, gym equipment, and outdoor gear rentals for skiing, surfing, hiking, and more.
With more than 170 clubs and societies—including snow sports, tramping (hiking), and diving—plus dedicated spaces for faith, wellness, and queer support, Otago fosters an inclusive and vibrant campus life.
Popular Degree Programs
Undergraduate, Graduate, and PhD degree options available in the following subject areas.
| Discipline | Available Subject Areas |
| Business |
|
| Health Sciences |
|
| Humanities |
|
| Science |
|
Tuition
- Tuition and fees vary based on academic program
- International Students pay the same as domestic students for the PhD program
Health Insurance Fees
- NZ $697.00 (per year, individual rate)
All international students are required to have comprehensive health and travel insurance while in New Zealand. When you enroll at Otago you will automatically be covered by Studentsafe, and the insurance premium will be added to your student account.
Inclusions
What's Included:
- Academic guidance and counselling
- Application submission assistance, ongoing email enquiry support from start to finish throughout your application process
- Review of suitable degree programs
- Certification of transcripts
- Course advice
- Enrollment advice
- Support through the acceptance and commencement period
- Review of transcripts and documents
- Liaise between you and the University of Otago
What's Not Included:
- International airfare ($1,800)
- Domestic airfare in US ($500)
- Student visa ($620)
- Books ($365)
- Meals during the semester ($2,500)
- Airport transfer at the end of the semester ($50)
- Travel insurance ($350)
- Travel and personal expenses ($1,500 – 2,500+)
*Costs are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.
Meet Helen
Program Manager, Full Degree
Located in Australia, Helen has been helping students earn their degree abroad for more than 15 years. Prior to joining our team, she worked in study abroad and international education at Griffith University and Bond University. Needless to say, she knows the ins and outs of all of our full degree programs, including the keys to getting accepted. She's here to help you from application to acceptance.
Learn more about earning your degree abroad
Whether you’re pursuing your bachelor’s or master’s degree in Australia or New Zealand, we’re here to guide you through the process—from choosing the right university to understanding admissions, funding, and next steps.
You can always apply directly to our full-degree programs, but we’ve got over 15 years of experience for you to take advantage of.
Let's work together to find the right degree program for you.