University of Otago
New Zealand
Discover an Exceptional and Personalized learning journey with world-class education and a vibrant community in beautiful Otago.
Students Enrolled
Years of Academic Excellence
QS Ranking
Degree Programs
About University of Otago
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university and a pioneer in academic excellence. With over 21,000 students from around the globe, Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across health sciences, business, humanities, and natural sciences. The university is renowned for its world-class research, innovative teaching, and vibrant campus life in the heart of Dunedin, providing students with opportunities to grow academically, socially, and professionally.
Otago’s supportive and inclusive environment encourages students to explore new ideas, engage with diverse communities, and develop leadership skills that prepare them for global careers. With a rich history of academic achievement and a strong international reputation, the university continues to foster creativity, discovery, and lifelong learning.
Talk to Our Expert Education Counsellors
Why Choose University of Otago
A globally recognized education within a diverse and student-focused campus community
PERSONALIZED EDUCATION
The University of Otago fosters a personalised learning environment where students benefit from smaller class sizes, accessible lecturers and tailored academic support that help deepen understanding and nurture individual potential, while flexible programmes allow students to combine subjects.
RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY
Otago’s residential college system is a hallmark of student life, with around 15 residential colleges offering supportive, close‑knit communities that house many first‑year students and provide social, academic and wellbeing support, helping students build friendships and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
OVER 200 DEGREE OPTIONS
The University of Otago offers over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across diverse fields including health sciences, commerce, humanities and sciences, giving students a broad choice of majors, minors and specialised courses to suit their interests and career goals.
Global & Industry Connections
Otago’s world‑class education is complemented by extensive global industry links, with students and graduates connecting to international networks and career opportunities across sectors, supported by alumni and professional partnerships that enhance employability and real‑world experience.
LEADING SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
Students at Otago benefit from strong support services including academic advising, career development resources, health and wellbeing services, and dedicated international student support to help them succeed academically and personally throughout their university journey.
NZ$10 MILLION IN ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS
The university offers a wide range of scholarships for both domestic and international students, with values ranging from NZD $10,000 for global and partnership scholarships up to over NZD $45,000 for competitive academic excellence awards, helping reduce tuition and accommodation costs for high‑achieving students.
Discover University of Otago
Campus
Explore the Study Options
Otago offers career-focused degrees across multiple faculties and study formats.
Undergraduate Programs
Postgraduate Programs
International & Flexible Options
Explore the Programs Offered
Choose Your Interest
Business
Science
Creative Arts
Engineering
Communication
Health Sciences
Psychology
Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems
Information Technology
And More!
Frequently
Asked Questions
The University of Otago’s Career Development Centre offers dedicated career support to help students transition into the workforce and beyond, including career planning and advice, CV and interview preparation, job search strategies, access to job and internship listings through CareerHub, workshops, employer networking events, and one‑to‑one consultations, all designed to support Otago graduates in exploring career options, enhancing employability skills and navigating the job market effectively after graduation.
Otago provides a wide range of scholarships and awards for both domestic and international students, including entrance and academic merit scholarships, postgraduate options, and funds to assist with financial hardship; in 2025 the university invested around NZD $45 million in scholarships and additional relief funds to support student costs, and international applicants may be eligible for specific scholarships such as the Vice‑Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students and International Academic Excellence Scholarships as part of their application process.
International students at Otago benefit from a comprehensive support network that includes International Student Advisers offering personalised guidance on academic, cultural, wellbeing and homesickness issues, immigration and visa support, insurance assistance, orientation and enrolment help, English language resources, and pastoral care to help students adjust to life and study in New Zealand and make the most of their time at the university.
Otago has a vibrant and diverse international community with students from over 100 countries, supported by student organisations such as the Otago International Students’ Association (OISA) and other cultural clubs that organise events, social activities and advocacy work, offering international students opportunities to connect, celebrate cultural diversity, build friendships, engage in campus life and feel part of an inclusive, global student environment.