University of Otago
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University of Otago : Fees, Rankings, Courses, Reviews

Shiksha popularity ranking
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#260 in World

#2 in New Zealand

  • Verified IconAuthorized Partner
  • Institute Icon111 acre campus
  • Estd. 1869
Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 1 Nov '25

Otago University
What's new?

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  • The application deadline for Semester 2 in 2026 at University of Otago is Apr 30, 2026. 

About University of Otago

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All
History
Year of establishment
1869
University website
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Student website
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Total foreign students
2837
Campus size
111 acres
No. of campus
1
Accepted exams

University of Otago Ranking 2025

#260

World level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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#2

Country level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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Commonly asked questions
On Rankings
Q:   What is the rank of University of Otago in the world?
A: 

The University of Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world, and has the highest-possible rating of 5 Stars Plus in the QS global university performance ratings. The university is ranked #247 in Best Global Universities by US News, #206 in QS World University Rankings 2024, #301-350th in World University Rankings 2024 by Times Higher Education, and #351 in the Center for World University Rankings.

University of Otago Admission 2026

  • Application fees :No Fees
  • Type of deadline :Depends on course
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNot required
LORNot required
EssaysNot required
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   Can I get admission to the University of Otago with an IELTS score of 6.5 with 5.5 in one module?
A: 

Yes, you can get admission to the University of Otago with an IELTS score of 6.5 and 5.5 in one module. The University of Otago's English language requirements for the IELTS (Academic module) for postgraduate programs are an overall score of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0. The University of Otago accepts several alternative English language proficiency tests in addition to IELTS. These include TOEFL, PTE, CPE (Cambridge English Proficiency), and CAE (Cambridge Advanced English). 

Otago University
University of Otago Scholarships 2026 for Indian Students

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Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships
Q:   Does University of Otago offers scholarships for Indian students?
A: 

The University of Otago is among the top choices of international students for pursuing higher education in New Zealand. Otago University offers a large variety of scholarship for its Indian students. The University of Otago scholarships attracts students from all over the world. Some top scholarships offered by Otago University are listed below:

Scholarship NameTarget LevelValue / BenefitEligibility / Highlights
New Otago Scholarships (2025 India outreach)UndergraduateRanges from NZD 15,000 (INR 7.77 L) (undergrad) to NZD 45,000 (INR 23.33 L), including first-year residential college feeAimed at top academic achievers as part of the new India-targeted scholarship rollout
Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships (Ongoing)UndergraduateNZD 10,000 (INR 5.18 L) to - NZD 45,000 (INR 23.33 L)For domestic and onshore international students, applies to multiple scholarships (V-C, Leaders of Tomorrow, etc.)
Global Scholarship (? t? kou Whakaihu Waka)Undergraduate (certain regions)NZD 15,000 (INR 7.77 L) credit towards tuition (one-year); semester 2 starters get splitted paymentsFor students from select countries including India; paid as tuition credit; cannot be deferred

Otago University Popular Courses

MS
MBA/PGDM
B.Sc.
M.A.
More

₹22.46 LGet Fee Details

₹21.34 LGet Fee Details

₹24.23 LGet Fee Details

₹23.3 LGet Fee Details

₹17.17 LGet Fee Details

View AllMS Courses

Otago University
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.1/5
Verified Icon2 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 50% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Friendly
Easy going
Multi-dimensional
Fun loving
Internships3
Part time work4.5
Post study jobs3.5
Quality of faculty4.5
Student Life4.5
Value for money3.5
Public transportation4
Safety5
Indian Food4
Permanent Immigration4.5
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Finance - Batch of 2025
4.5
An eye-opening experience with great faculty.
Tips: It's really difficult adjusting to the new environment but once you are used to it, you will really enjoy it. The most important thing is to not get lazy or sack off. Really difficult to get scholarships for international students. There are just more scholarships for domestic students.
Likes (Internships): There are many opportunities to get internships with many local and international companies, especially companies like Big 4. The university also provides many support services regarding the application process and creating your CV. The application process might be a bit tedious sometimes.
Dislikes (Value for money): The tuition fee is really expensive. In my opinion, it's not justified compared to the rates they charge domestic students. But then again, there are many support services available for international students that are not available for domestic students.
Total Monthly ExpenseNZD 1600
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryNZD
Reviewed on 11 Oct 2024Read more
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A
Alok Parekh Verified Icon
Master of International Business (MIntBus) - Batch of 2025
3.7
Internships are not always relevant to your field of studies.
Tips: There was a huge cultural shift that I experienced after coming here, mostly evolving around the soft skills. I was awarded a scholarship of NZD 10,000, for which I didn't have to apply. One gets under the list as they fill out the application form. Later, two students, not sure about the number of students in other courses, were selected for the scholarship. Overall, I am pretty satisfied with the university and course, but not very happy with the country, as finding a full-time job, especially related to your field of study, could be challenging if you are an immigrant.
Likes (Student Life): A typical day at college involved a 2-hour lecture. Besides that, the library offers a wide selection of books covering various academic and non-academic genres. The university's student association organises numerous cultural events, such as Holi, Diwali, and Christmas, providing opportunities to connect with students from diverse backgrounds.
Dislikes (Internships): There is complete support from the concerned people on campus to find internships. They guide you in every step, right from creating a New Zealand-friendly CV to appearing for an interview. However, available internships are not always relevant to your field of studies and may clash with your academics.
Total Monthly ExpenseNZD 1500
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryNZD 70000
Reviewed on 18 Jul 2025Read more
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University of Otago Placements

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Commonly asked questions
On Placements
Q:   What is the placement rate at University of Otago?
A: 

The University of Otago placement rate stands at 95%, and the graduates were employed within six months of graduation. University of Otago employment rate attracts students from all over the globe. the average salary of University of Otago graduates is NZD 87,400 (INR 44.79 LPA), per year. Also, Otago University graduates are consistently in high demand worldwide. Otago University graduates are highly skilled in Strategy, Marketing, Business Strategy, Marketing Strategy, Business Development, and more. University of Otago graduates are working in leading sectors such as Sales, Media and Communication, Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, Entrepreneurship, etc. Furthermore, University of Otago graduates are working in esteemed organizations such as:

  • ANZ
  • Deloitte
  • Fonterra
  • University of Canterbury
  • Victoria University of Wellington
  • ASB Bank
  • EY
Q:   Who are the top recruiters at the University of Otago?
A: 

The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering the highest placement rates in the New Zealand. Otago University placement rate attracts international students the most. University of Otago placement rate stands at 95%, and the graduates were employed within six months of graduation. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 95 students secured employment. The university graduates are highly skilled Strategic Planning, Team Leadership, Strategy, Marketing, Business Strategy, Marketing Strategy, Business Development, etc. The university graduates are in high demand all over the world. University of Otago graduates work in leading sectors such as Business Development, Healthcare Services, Operations, Education, Research, Sales, Finance, Information Technology, and more. Furthermore, some of the top recruiters at Otago University are listed below:

  • University of Otago
  • Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
  • University of Auckland
  • ANZ
  • Deloitte
  • Fonterra
  • University of Canterbury
  • Victoria University of Wellington
  • ASB Bank
  • EY
  • Westpac New Zealand
  • Air New Zealand
  • University of Melbourne
  • New Zealand Rugby
  • Microsoft
Q:   Is University of Otago worth for placement?
A: 

The University of Otago is highly renowned for offering the high placement rate in New Zealand. The university placement rate attracts international students the most. The University of Otago placement rate stands at 95%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 95 students secured employment. According to the student reviews on Shiksha, the University of Otago graduates can earn from NZD 80,000NZD 87,000 (INR 40.98 LPA – INR 44.57 LPA), per year. The University of Otago graduates are always in high demand all over the world. The university graduates work for top sectors such as Business Development, Healthcare Services, Operations, Education, Research, etc. According to University of Otago reviews posted by students on Shiksha, the university has been rated 4.0 stars for the quality of its faculty. The students rated the University of Otago for placement is as follows:

Parameters

Rating (out of 5)

Internships

5.0

Part Time Work

5.0

Post Study Jobs

5.0

Conversion used above NZD 1 - INR 51.66

Q:   What skills does University of Otago graduates prioritize for placement?
A: 

The University of Otago is among the top universities for higher education in USA. The University of Otago placement rate is 95%, and the students secured employment within 6 months of graduation. This figure shows that out of 100 students, 95 students secured employment. Otago University graduates work for top companies such as EY, Westpac New Zealand, Air New Zealand, University of Melbourne, New Zealand Rugby, Microsoft, etc.. Moreover, Otago University graduates work for top sectors such Operations, Education, Research, Sales, Finance, Information Technology, etc. Otago University placement rate varies from one programme to another. The average salary of Otago University graduates is NZD 87,400 (INR 44.79 LPA), annually. Furthermore, the University of Otago graduates are highly skilled in the following:

  • Leadership
  • Customer Service
  • Research Skills
  • Management
  • Communication
  • Project Management
  • Microsoft Office
  • Public Speaking
  • Strategic Planning
  • Team Leadership
  • Strategy
  • Marketing
  • Business Strategy
  • Marketing Strategy
  • Business Development

University of Otago Fees

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Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MS(34 courses)
INR 17 L - 24 LGet Fee Details
Duration1 year-2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE: 58 - 64, Duolingo: 120 & Above, TOEFL: 90 - 95
MBA/PGDM(5 courses)
INR 26 L - 36 LGet Fee Details
Duration12-15 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above, GMAT: 550 & Above
B.Sc.(31 courses)
INR 13 L - 22 LGet Fee Details
Duration3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above
M.A.(19 courses)
INR 20 L - 27 LGet Fee Details
Duration12 months-2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above, TOEFL: 90 - 95
B.E. / B.Tech(6 courses)
INR 17 L - 21 LGet Fee Details
Duration3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above
MASc(12 courses)
INR 28 L - 34 LGet Fee Details
Duration12 months-1 year
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above
MIM(4 courses)
INR 26 L - 31 LGet Fee Details
Duration12 months-1 year
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above
BBA(3 courses)
INR 16 L - 19 LGet Fee Details
Duration3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
MPH(1 course)
Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above
MBBS(1 course)
Duration6 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
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Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility
Q:   Is a score of 5.5 in IELTS good for University of Otago?
A: 

The minimum IELTS score required for admission to the University of Otago is an overall score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5 for undergraduate programs, and an overall score of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0 for postgraduate programs. However, you can take the EFO admission test even if you don't have proof of your minimal level of English ability. Only those who have been offered a spot at Otago may take the free EFO admission exam. The following are the needed EFO admission exam results:

EFO Minimum for Undergraduates: 55/100
EFO Graduate Requirement 60/100.

Q:   What is the fees for international students at University of Otago?
A: 

The first year tuition fees for international students at University of Otago are given as follows:

Courses1st Year Tuition Fees
MS (35 courses)
INR 17 L - INR 21 L
BSc (31 courses)
INR 13 L - INR 20 L
MA  (18 courses)
INR 20 L - INR 24 L
MBBS (1 course)
INR 19 L
MBA/PGDM (1 course)
INR 31 L
BE/BTech (5 courses)
INR 16 L - INR 19 L
BA  (23 courses)
INR 16 L - INR 18 L
MIM (3 courses)
INR 23 L - INR 26 L
MASc (11 courses)
INR 28 L - INR 29 L
MSN (1 course)
INR 21 L
Q:   What are the neccesary documents required in the visa process for University of Otago, New Zealand?
A: 

The neccesary documents required in the visa process for University of Otago, New Zealand include:

  • Valid passport: Upon your stay in New Zealand, your passport has to be valid for at least three months.
  • Filled-out Application for Student Visa (INZ 1012)
  • An offer of admission: A space must be extended to you by a New Zealand institution or university. Typically, the forms are sent upon the receipt of the tuition payments.
  • A confirmation letter from your present university stating that you are enrolled in a study abroad programme
  • Receipt for health insurance
  • You may be required to show Health and Character certificates
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Scores from tests that your college required, such as TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT scores.







University of Otago Notable Alumni

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Commonly asked questions
On Alumni
Q:   Who are the notable alumni of University of Otago?
A: 

The University of Otago is one of the oldest universities in the world. Otago University has a vast alumni network of more than 100,000 members all over the world. Otago University alumni network include famous personalities, innovators, industry leaders, mentors, entrepreneurs, and more. University of Otago alumni work in top companies such as Deloitte, ANZ, EY, Microsoft, ASB Bank, Fronterra, and more. Some of the notable alumni of Otago University are listed below:

  • Stella Maxwell
  • John Money
  • Bill English
  • Janet Frame
  • Jamie Joseph
  • Grant Robertson
  • John Hattie
  • Graham Henry
  • Nikki Kaye
  • Kamisese Mara
  • Rayyanah Barnawi
  • Archibald McIndoe
  • Juliet Marillier
  • Jeremy Waldron
  • Mazlan Othman

Otago University vs Auckland vs Waikato

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Compare Otago University with other similar colleges

MS
MBA/PGDM
B.Sc.
M.A.
B.E. / B.Tech
MASc
MIM
BBA
MPH
MBBS
College1st Year Tuition FeesRanking
INR 17.17 L - 24.23 L#197 QS, 2026
INR 17.83 L - 30.44 L#281 QS, 2026
INR 18.43 L - 42.34 L#230 QS, 2026
INR 17.88 L - 33.57 L#410 QS, 2026
INR 22.43 L - 28.65 L#65 QS, 2026
INR 27.2 L - 42.13 L -/-
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
View comparisonsRight Arrow Icon
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Commonly asked questions
On Comparisons
Q:   Which university is better: University of Otago or University of Waikato?
A: 

The University of Otago and University of Waikato both are among the top choices of international students in the New Zealand. Every university offers something unique for its international students to stand out of the herd. Both universities have its advantages and disadvantages.
The University of Otago acceptance rate stands at 65%, which makes it extremely competitive. This means out of 100 students, around 65 students are enrolled in the university. On the other hand, University of Waikato acceptance rate is around 70% - 72%, which makes it competitive to secure admission. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 70 to 72 students are enrolled at Waikato. Check the comparison listed below between Otago University and Waikato University. The below comparison will help students in gaining more clarity on these universities respectively:

Parameters

University of Otago

University of Waikato

Establishment

1869

1964

Location

Dunedin, New Zealand

Hamilton, New Zealand

Shiksha Popularity Rankings

#248 in World

#348 in World

University Type

Public

Public

University Ratings on Shiksha (Out of 5)

4.5

4.5

Acceptance Rate

Around 65%

Around 70%  - 72%

Placement Rate

96%

95%

Average Salary

INR 45.15 LPA

INR 34.61 LPA

QS Rankings 2025

#214

#235

UG Annual Fee

INR 13.37 L - 21.72 L

INR 8.96 L - 22.02 L

PG Annual Fee

INR 17.52 L - 57.17 L

INR 8.79 L - 31.74 L

Popular Streams

Finance | Business | Economics

Arts | Social Sciences | Education

Otago University
Studying in New Zealand

Key Facts About New Zealand

Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Education in New Zealand
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71+
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7.3K
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20 Hours per week
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3 Years
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Wellington
keyUsers Key Fact Icon
5.25M (2025)
chartMixed Key Fact Icon
1%
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English
Weather
January
CF
Popular LocationsMinMax
Auckland1624
Wellington1420
Hamilton1723
Christchurch1223
Explore popular study abroad destinations

University of Otago Campus Life

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University of Otago FAQs

Q:   How many colleges and campuses does University of Otago have?
A: 

The University of Otago has a total of five campuses and 14 residential colleges. The campuses are listed below:

  • Dunedin
  • Auckland
  • Christchurch
  • Invercargill
  • Wellington

The 14 residential colleges are divided across 4 departments, viz. Business, health sciences, humanities, and sciences. The residential colleges of the University Of Otago are listed below:

  • Aquinas College
  • Arana College
  • Caroline Freeman College
  • Carrington College
  • Cumberland College
  • Hayward College
  • Knox College
  • St. Margaret’s College
  • Salmond College
  • Selwyn College
  • Studholme College
  • Te Rangi Hiroa College
  • Toroa College
  • University College

It provides numerous accommodation facilities to the international students who study at its various campuses. The university's accommodation is ideal for the newcomers until they get acquainted with the region's lifestyle and environment. The university is located near the campus and other important parts of the city, making it easy for the residing students to access everything.

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Otago University

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 4 months ago

International students are required to meet certain admission requirements to study an MBA at the University of Otago. This is a two-year program, and below are its eligibility requirements: 

  • International applicants must have an undergraduate degree with an acceptable level of management experience

...Read more

L

Lalit Shukla

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 4 months ago

The Otago MBA is ranked the best in New Zealand, and it is internationally accredited by EQUIS and AACSB, which are two of the most reputed accreditations in the world, and very universities have both of these. Below are the key features of the Otago MBA

  • It is a two-phase full-time programme starti

...Read more

P

Piyush Rastogi

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 4 months ago

Like all the Otago University MS programs, the MS in Toxicology also includes coursework and research preparation, while the second year focuses on thesis research. This programme is for studying the harmful effects of drugs, industrial chemicals, etc. The coursework includes papers such as Master's

...Read more

D

Divya Shukla

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 6 months ago

The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering the highest placement rates across the nation. University of Otago placement rate stands at is 95%, and the graduates were employed within 6 months of graduation. This figure states that out of 100 students, around 95 students secured employmen

...Read more

I

Ishita Kalra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 months ago

The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering the highest placement rates in the Australia. Otago University placement rate attracts international students the most. Deakin University placement rate is 93%, for undergraduate students. This figure states that out of 100 students, around 93

...Read more

R

Rachit Sharma

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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joisha verma

Study Abroad Expert

Joisha is a passionate writer, specialized in writing engaging and meaningful content with skilled research and styles.

Otago University

Otago University Others(1)University of Otago
Otago University Others(2)Aerial View
Otago University Others(3)Aerial View
Otago University Others(4)William James Building
Otago University Others(5)Adams Building

Otago University
Location

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University CityDunedin, Other - New Zealand, New Zealand
Size of cityMedium
Population of City1,28,800

Otago University
Campuses

Departments Icon1   Campuses
Dunedin CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

Otago University
Contact Information

Address

362 Leith Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Dunedin ( Other - New Zealand)

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